Pheu Thai faces election setback after Shinawatra controversies

Party's popularity wanes following Paetongtarn's removal as PM and Thaksin's recent imprisonment

Ryan Turner3 days agoLast Updated: Monday, September 15, 2025

141 1 minute read

Pheu Thai faces election setback after Shinawatra controversies | Thaiger — Spokesperson for the Pheu Thai Party, Danuporn Punnakanta | Image screenshot via @_Klangpa/X

Pheu Thai list-MP and spokesperson, Danuporn Punnakanta, acknowledged yesterday, September 14, the criticism suggesting the party might secure fewer than 100 seats in the upcoming general election. This follows significant developments involving former prime ministers Thaksin and Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

Danuporn stated that the party would refrain from responding to criticism regarding its waning popularity, which has led to predictions from both academics and politicians that Pheu Thai could emerge as a medium-sized party in the next election.

On August 29, the Constitutional Court dismissed Paetongtarn from her position as prime minister due to an ethics violation related to a leaked audio clip involving Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen.

Shortly after, on September 9, the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions ruled that Thaksin must serve a one-year prison sentence, previously imposed two years ago, as his hospital stay did not count towards his incarceration period.

Pheu Thai faces election setback after Shinawatra controversies | News by Thaiger — Thaksin’s transfer to Klong Prem Central Prison | Photo via Thai PBS World

Danuporn communicated to party supporters that Pheu Thai has endured political crises in the past and has emerged stronger each time. He referred to the two coups the party survived and the dissolution of its predecessors, Thai Rak Thai and the Palang Prachachon Party.

While acknowledging that recent events, including Paetongtarn’s removal as prime minister and Thaksin’s imprisonment, might dishearten some members, Danuporn affirmed the party’s resolve to continue working for the people.

Addressing questions about reopening certain border checkpoints with Cambodia, Danuporn noted that the decision lies with the new government, led by Bhumjaithai, and how it addresses the issue.

During Pheu Thai’s time in power, Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai indicated that a committee would make any decision regarding border reopening.

Danuporn also mentioned that Pheu Thai MPs in border provinces have been instructed to monitor the situation and offer assistance to locals closely, reported Bangkok Post.