BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra affirmed her approach to keeping responses during the no-confidence debate concise and to the point, stating she is not one to give lengthy explanations, March 25. She expressed confidence in her statements and said she was not worried about any potential “knockout punch” from the opposition.
Speaking at the Parliament building on the second day of the no-confidence debate, Paetongtarn shared her impressions of the first day’s proceedings, remarking that Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai handled his responses well and in an engaging manner.
When asked about opposition expectations for her to give detailed explanations, particularly regarding a hotel in Khao Yai, the Prime Minister emphasized that the essence of the debate lies in the content, and it is important to manage parliamentary time efficiently. “I focus on addressing key points directly. I’m not someone who speaks at length, but I will try to elaborate when necessary,” she said.
Regarding concerns over the clarity of her responses, Paetongtarn expressed confidence that her explanations were sufficient and noted that government ministers had further elaborated on key issues. She also highlighted that the Minister of Social Development and Human Security, Varawut Silpa-archa, had provided a detailed response regarding the Khao Yai hotel issue, making additional explanations unnecessary.
On the opposition’s claim that they have major revelations for today’s session, Paetongtarn dismissed any worries, stating that her family’s financial records have been transparent since the 2006 coup. “Everything has been declared according to regulations. If any purchases are made, we always ensure compliance with the rules,” she assured.
Addressing inquiries about potential tax investigations and ethical probes, she welcomed any official processes, asserting that she had adhered to all legal requirements. “If an investigation is needed, go ahead. I knew upon entering politics that scrutiny was inevitable,” she stated.
Regarding opposition MP Rangsiman Rome’s discussion on her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, and his hospitalization on the 14th floor, Paetongtarn stated that she would first review the debate’s details before deciding whether to respond. “This matter falls under the Justice Ministry’s jurisdiction. At the time, I wasn’t even Prime Minister yet,” she explained, questioning why the opposition was directing the issue at her.
On claims that ten opposition MPs might support her in the no-confidence vote, Paetongtarn denied having any knowledge of such a shift and expressed confidence in the stability of her coalition government.
When asked about Thaksin’s involvement in monitoring the debate, she laughed and revealed that he had been sending her messages throughout, but she had been too preoccupied with preparations to read them. “He has been watching everything closely and commenting like any other citizen, but I haven’t had time to reply,” she said.
Despite the long hours in Parliament, Paetongtarn remained undeterred, noting that while the schedule was exhausting, many ministers were working even harder. She anticipated another long session ahead.
On her brief rebuttal of opposition MP Gen. Prawit Wongsuwan’s statements, Paetongtarn explained, “It was simply the truth. I kept it short for now—longer explanations can come later.”
Finally, when asked about social media discussions suggesting her rebuttal benefitted Gen. Prawit, she responded casually, “Well, we share the attention.”
