Paetongtarn Triumphs! Censure Vote No Match for Pheu Thai Power. Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter of political heavyweight Thaksin Shinawatra, has firmly held her ground today. Surviving the awaited censure motion, she collected a robust 319 votes from loyal Pheu Thai-backed MPs. Meanwhile, just 162 MPs from the opposing People’s party voted against her, outnumbered and outmanoeuvred. ASEAN NOW

Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, center, reacts after a no-confidence vote against her was defeated in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, March 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

 

Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter of political heavyweight Thaksin Shinawatra, has firmly held her ground today.

 

Surviving the awaited censure motion, she collected a robust 319 votes from loyal Pheu Thai-backed MPs. Meanwhile, just 162 MPs from the opposing People's party voted against her, outnumbered and outmanoeuvred.

 

The heat in parliament was undeniable, with Paetongtarn facing a barrage of accusations. Critics questioned her leadership credentials and accused her of failing to fulfil her promises. Adding fuel to the fire were claims linking her to her father's controversial stay at the Police Hospital, under a cloak as a "critically ill" patient to dodge jail time.

 

 

 

Despite the firestorm, Paetongtarn emerged unscathed with several MPs choosing not to vote at all. Seven lawmakers remained on the sidelines during the decision moment, neither supporting nor opposing the motion. This underlines her firm grip on the coalition, ensuring her leadership remains unchallenged, at least, for now.

 

The backdrop of this political drama is a tale as old as power itself, where familial ties and old alliances play a significant role. The survival of this censure motion highlights the Pheu Thai Party's dominance in the Thai political landscape.

 

The country's political dynamics remain fascinating, with stories like these continuing to unfold, gripping audiences both in the halls of power and everyday citizens.

 

As the dust settles, speculation buzzes on what comes next for Paetongtarn and Thailand's future. The stakes remain high, with the Prime Minister steering through turbulent waters while critics linger, ready to challenge at the next round. For now, Paetongtarn has silenced the critics, but the political chess game continues.

 

Based on a story by Thai Newsroom

 

-- 2025-03-26