Red-Shirt Ally Laments Thaksin's Use By Foreign Leaders
A former Pheu Thai MP criticizes Thailand for failing to utilize Thaksin's economic expertise while neighboring countries recruit him as an adviser, as supporters plan a birthday gathering to show encouragement.
Worrachai Hema, former Samut Prakan MP from the Pheu Thai Party, commented on former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's recent visits to ASEAN leaders in Malaysia and Indonesia. Hema noted that Thaksin was invited by these leaders, rather than seeking meetings himself, indicating that these encounters create benefits for their countries, particularly Indonesia, where President Prabowo Subianto invited Thaksin to serve as an adviser, recognizing his knowledge and experience.
Hema expressed concern that Thailand's situation differs markedly. Although Thaksin is Thai and a former prime minister credited as one of Thailand's most capable leaders—having resolved an economic crisis and raised GDP growth from 1% to 5% in two years—his talents are not being utilized by his own country. Since the coup that removed him from power, Thailand's economic growth has declined steadily, with neighboring countries like Myanmar and Cambodia now surpassing Thai GDP. Thaksin also ranks as the former prime minister who has faced the most hardship.
"Thailand faces a problem where talented people are excluded from solving the nation's problems, and other countries recruit them to work while Thailand gains no benefit," Hema stated. He called on red-shirt supporters who still admire Thaksin to gather on July 26 at Jum-Dad restaurant, Pom Yang Kham Road, kilometer 6, Soi Ram Intra 40, from 11 a.m. onwards, to celebrate Thaksin's 77th birthday and show him encouragement. "Anyone who wishes to come and offer support is welcome to join," Hema said.
