Bangkok: "Bhumtham" believes that the Pheu Thai Party will return if it reforms, praising "Thaksin" as a gentleman and a great fighter after agreeing to enter the justice system. Reporters reported that at 1:20 PM, Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, acting on behalf of the Prime Minister, entered Government House and entered his office in Building 1, a period of nearly two hours. Later, at 3:00 PM, Mr. Phumtham gave an interview stating that today (September 12) would be his last day of work.
According to Thai News Agency, when asked by reporters about the Pheu Thai Party's restructuring, whether it would involve bringing in more young people to work, Mr. Phumtham stated that the party prioritizes people of all generations, including the older generation who have been around for a long time and have considerable experience, the middle generation who are growing up, and the younger generation who are interested in joining the party. They are individuals who are beginning to show interest, perhaps those who have achieved success in other areas. He added that newness or oldness is not a measure of anything, nor is age. He could not say at this time what the plan would be, as he had not yet joined the party. He added that any improvements or additions would need to be discussed.
Mr. Phumtham said that if the four-month period for dissolving parliament as promised to the people is true, there will be very little time. He said he would have to discuss it within the party. When asked if members remain with the Pheu Thai Party and are not leaving, Mr. Bhumtham replied that most remain, with some having left. He believes all members understand the role the party has played, and believes most will remain with the party. However, at some point, each person will decide which path they want to take. Politically, they have the right to choose their own path. However, there are still a significant number of people who still love the Pheu Thai Party and want to work for it. From what we've discussed, everyone wants to improve.
Mr. Phumtham stated that it's not that we've never been in opposition. We've been in opposition for many years. Therefore, we're going back to where we started and standing firm in our original position, adjusting to suit the situation and the people. He believes the Pheu Thai Party will return. When asked whether the acceptance of the justice system by a spiritual leader like former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra would boost the party's popularity, Mr. Bhumtham said he could not assess the situation, but believed that Thaksin had taken all necessary steps.
"I think Mr. Mana is a gentleman fighter. He had the opportunity to escape because he was outside the country, and many saw him fly out. But he returned because he believed he had not committed any serious crimes. He came to receive him and entered the justice system," said Mr. Phumtham. Mr. Phumtham continued, "Therefore, whatever the decision-making process, he is ready to implement it. He believes this is the heart of a great fighter. The former prime minister's courage to face challenges is a win for him. However, there are many others who sympathize with and understand him. Whether they are many or few, just look at the polls. They will surely act.