At the same time, Mr Yodchanan is being carefully packaged as a candidate who is "sellable" beyond the party's traditional base. However, the moment Pheu Thai made Mr Yodchanan its clear prime ministerial frontrunner, criticism was inevitable. Critics argue that Pheu Thai is neither independent nor internally democratic, but structurally captive to one political clan. As long as Thaksin Shinawatra remains the spiritual and strategic centre of Pheu Thai, his presence will continue to function as both a political asset and a liability. From now until election day on Feb 8, Mr Yodchanan faces a formidable task.

Source: Bangkok Post December 31, 2025 22:45 UTC