Thailand: Thaksin Shinawatra Calls for Economic and Political Overhaul to “Unlock the Future”
Bangkok, Queen Sirikit National Convention Center – Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made a public return on Thursday, July 17, at the inaugural Unlocking Thailand’s Future forum, an event bringing together leaders, industrialists, and experts to discuss the challenges Thailand faces in a turbulent global context.
In his speech, Thaksin Shinawatra, who had distanced himself from active politics, laid out an ambitious vision to revive the country, which he deems plagued by prolonged stagnation and internal divisions. He particularly emphasized the need to overcome “two decades of stagnation, divisions, and lost opportunities.”
Call for National Unity
Thaksin openly criticized the persistent political instability affecting Thailand, stating: “It has been 51 years since Thailand has experienced real political stability. We cannot continue to fall behind while the world moves forward.” The former Prime Minister also highlighted how internal divisions and accusations of “national treason,” particularly over ongoing tensions with Cambodia, have hindered the country’s progress.
On this sensitive issue, Thaksin expressed his astonishment at Thailand’s stance regarding the border conflict with Cambodia, saying: “Regarding what happened with Cambodia, I am surprised. This Khmer leader [former Prime Minister Hun Sen] is totally devoid of ethics. And yet, we take his side. I don’t understand why Thai people don’t love each other today.”
This statement comes amid rising tensions between the two nations, which have recently led to border closures and diplomatic clashes. Thaksin pointed out the deep divide within Thai society, reminding that such internal conflicts undermine national unity. “It is time to become united again, to trust each other. Hate has cost us twenty years,” he concluded.
A Vision for the State and Economy
Advocating for stable governance, Thaksin detailed his vision for a state functioning “free from political chaos,” with senior officials who are responsible and evaluated based on clear performance indicators, ensuring continuity despite changes in government. He proposed a model of “CEO-bureaucracy” for a modern, digital, and transparent administration.
In the realm of infrastructure, the former Prime Minister defended a large-scale project that includes land bridges to connect both coasts and a transformation of public transport, with a flat fare of 20 baht for all metro lines.
Green Energy and Technological Innovation
Thaksin also emphasized his vision of Thailand as a pioneer in exporting green electricity, harnessing the country’s solar potential to power data centers globally. He further suggested that Thailand could become a regional leader in blockchain, artificial intelligence, and regenerative medicine.
In an economy-focused address, Thaksin proposed a Golden Visa program to attract foreign investors, aiming to boost the real estate sector and bring capital into the country. He also suggested low-interest loans to support small and medium-sized enterprises facing challenges from global trade dynamics.
Institutional Reforms and Calls for Political Change
Thaksin also advocated for reform in government communications and economic policies, lamenting the inefficiency of the third phase digital wallet program and the current government’s reluctance to raise the debt ceiling to finance stimulus initiatives. He reaffirmed that the 1997 Constitution, drafted under his own tenure, remained the best version ever adopted in Thailand.
An Intellectual Return, Not a Political One
Despite speculation about a potential return to politics, Thaksin denied any secret agreement with the current government. He emphasized that his speech was purely a strategic and intellectual return, aimed at proposing solutions to the country’s challenges. “I am now the secretary of the country. I listen to the problems, pass them on, and propose solutions. The people are waiting for results,” he concluded.
As Thailand and the European Union finally move toward a free trade agreement, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, whose economic policies, dubbed “Thaksinomics,” shaped the 2000s, seems more than ever back on the Thai political scene, which is likely to reassure the country’s foreign partners.
