Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has denied speculation that a personal dispute is driving the intensifying Thai-Cambodian border conflict, saying the military should be allowed to “complete their mission” before diplomatic talks can proceed.
During a visit to Ubon Ratchathani to meet civilians displaced by the cross-border clashes, Thaksin addressed growing rumours that the violence is rooted in tensions between political families.
He dismissed such claims, asserting that the deadly skirmishes between Thai and Cambodian forces are unrelated to any personal issues.
He was referring to an alleged rift between his family and that of former Cambodian prime minister Hun Sen.
The speculation emerged after a leaked audio recording surfaced, in which Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was heard pleading with Hun Sen, promising she would “do anything” in exchange for peace.
Thaksin, who celebrated his 76th birthday on Saturday, rejected accusations of political interference and said military operations must be conducted independently and professionally.
“I deny this is a conflict between two families. There was never any personal dispute,” he said. “This incident stems from Cambodia’s dissatisfaction with Thailand. We did nothing to provoke this.”
While several foreign leaders, including Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in his capacity as ASEAN chair, have expressed willingness to mediate, Thaksin said Thailand prefers to resolve the matter through bilateral discussions.
“If Cambodia wants to talk, we’ll talk. But we don’t need intermediaries unless absolutely necessary,” he said.
“Let the armed forces complete their mission. This is a military operation, and although some have called for a ceasefire, now is not the right time. The mission isn’t over.”
Thaksin, widely seen as the de facto leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, has become increasingly visible in recent weeks as the government, headed by his daughter Paetongtarn, faces growing uncertainty.
Paetongtarn has been temporarily suspended from her role as prime minister, pending a Constitutional Court ruling on whether her call with Hun Sen constituted an ethical breach.
Despite not holding a formal position within the government or the party, Thaksin has been accused by critics of exerting undue influence. If proven, such actions could constitute a legal offence under Thai law.
During his visit to Det Udom municipality, Thaksin said his presence was meant to comfort those affected by the conflict. However, the visit was briefly interrupted by a local resident who voiced strong criticism.
A woman identified as Ms Miew confronted the former prime minister, shouting: “If you’re friends, why did you let your friend kill Thais?” She told reporters that her relatives had been displaced from Kantharalak district in Si Sa Ket and accused Thaksin of failing to prevent the violence despite his longstanding relationship with Hun Sen.
“He doesn’t help Thai people, only his own family. We’ve been abandoned. I didn’t come here expecting him to take responsibility, he never listens to people like us,” she said.
Later, speaking in English, she added: “If he’s still supporting Hun Sen, the war won’t end. Our people are helping their side.”
Security personnel escorted Ms Miew out of the area. Thaksin, who had momentarily stepped away, re-emerged after the disruption had ended, diffusing what had been a tense and emotionally charged encounter.
