Recent devastating floods in southern Thailand have ramped up pressure on Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s administration, thrusting her into a whirlwind of criticism.
The severe flooding has many questioning her ability to manage a national crisis effectively.
Initially struggling in the north, the prime minister later set up the Flood, Storm, and Landslide Disaster Relief Operations Centre, prompted by initiatives from civil society groups. However, her handling of the crisis in the south has been seen as lacking.
A viral comment from the Thai prime minister only increased the scrutiny. Rather than offering reassurance, she said, “Regarding claims of neglecting the south, my husband is from the south, and his family is southern.”
“If I neglected or didn’t love the south, I couldn’t have married a southerner, could I?”
This remark, perceived as tone-deaf, has caused many to question her understanding of the situation’s gravity. Her political opponents were quick to express their disapproval.
Opposition MP Pukkamon Nunarnan stated, “Thai people already recognize the warmth and charm of the prime minister’s family, but such personal matters should remain private. The public expects professional leadership.”
Former MP Amarat Chokepamitkul criticized the prime minister for a self-centered response to the crisis.
Furthering the criticism, former senator Wanchai Sornsiri advised the 38-year-old prime minister to reevaluate her public image, including her attire and the involvement of her family in governmental affairs.
“If improvements aren’t made, it could soon have adverse effects.”
Despite these criticisms, a recent survey from Suan Dusit University shows that the Thai government’s performance ratings have improved in October compared to September, with PM Paetongtarn emerging as the most popular politician in the coalition.
The Suan Dusit Poll, which surveyed 2,136 people across Thailand from October 25 to 30, asked participants to rate the performance of both the government and the opposition in 25 different areas using a scale from 1 to 10.
