As a seasoned observer of Thai politics and a passionate fan of its vibrant film industry, I find myself captivated by the rise of Paetongtarn Shinawatra to the position of Prime Minister. Her youthful energy, coupled with her rich family heritage in both politics and cinema, promises an exciting chapter in Thailand’s political landscape.
Despite her political plans still being uncertain, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the newly appointed prime minister of Thailand, carries a rich legacy from the film industry in her background. Additionally, she is associated with certain familial issues as well.
On Friday, I was honored to be chosen as the Prime Minister by Parliament, a position that came swiftly following the Constitutional Court’s decision to oust my predecessor Srettha Thavisin just two days prior. As the youngest, second female, and third member of my family to hold this esteemed political post, I stand on the shoulders of giants – my father, Thaksin Shinawatra, and aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra, both of whom were elected and subsequently removed by military coups, in 2006 and 2014 respectively.
I, as a supporter of fair elections and democratic processes, find myself in the position where the Pheu Thai Party, led by Shinawatra, assumed power last year. The May 2023 general election was overwhelmingly won by the pro-democracy Move Forward Party. However, regrettably, establishment forces managed to hinder them from forming a government, despite their victory at the polls.
As per the established procedure, the Prime Minister candidate selected by the parliament can only be officially confirmed once they receive the king’s endorsement. At this stage, Ms. Shinawatra has chosen to remain silent about her potential policies and cabinet members. It is worth noting that her proposed cabinet members will also need separate approval from the royal court.
For millions of low-paid Thai citizens, whether the new PM presses ahead with Thavisin’s proposal to put THB10,000 ($280) into their pockets through a digital wallet scheme will be close to the top of their policy wish list. For many, restarting and modernizing the country’s struggling, tourism-dependent, economy will be important. The country’s film and TV industries can also expect a sympathetic ear and may be hoping for more specific measures.
Apart from being the granddaughter and daughter of cinema operators, Shinawatra’s political party, Pheu Thai, has made a significant emphasis on strengthening Thailand’s influence abroad through promoting “soft power.”
The Thaisin administration has presented plans for establishing a significant cultural backing organization, known as the Thailand Creative Culture Agency, with an allocated budget of approximately THB7 billion ($200 million). This agency is tasked with supporting a wide range of creative fields, including film and television, traditional martial arts like Muay Thai boxing, and culinary arts.
It’s not shocking, considering the various conflicting agendas at play, that this development wasn’t anticipated until 2025. However, Shinawatra was appointed as the leader of a special committee, which reported directly to the former prime minister. This committee had the authority to expedite changes in the movie and long-form documentary industries.
Anticipated alterations involve easing the pressure of censorship, establishing an entity responsible for streamlining filming permits and locations, expanding incentive programs for incoming productions that are more substantial and significant, and providing financial support to foster growth in the domestic film industry.
Thailand’s current incentive scheme provides a 15% refund, and an additional 5% bonus for projects utilizing substantial domestic components. However, this benefit was limited to a maximum of 2.25 million dollars in the past.
Surprisingly, even with a relatively low subsidy limit, Thailand has managed to draw in high-profile productions such as “Alien” season 3, the third season of “The White Lotus”, and segments from “Jurassic World 4”.
The increasing preference for “Boys Love” (BL) TV shows and the local triumph of the movie “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” indicate that Thai entertainment is currently experiencing a surge in popularity.
Nevertheless, Shinawatra must tread carefully to avoid upsetting the ruling powers. Her father has returned to Thailand after over a decade of living in exile, and so far has been treated with leniency. However, he could face indictment for insulting the monarchy, and effectively acts as a political pawn, ensuring that the new Prime Minister does not take any actions too drastic.
Read More
- GEAR PREDICTION. GEAR cryptocurrency
- PBX PREDICTION. PBX cryptocurrency
- EUR INR PREDICTION
- CKB PREDICTION. CKB cryptocurrency
- IMX PREDICTION. IMX cryptocurrency
- Skull and Bones: Gamers’ Frustrations with Ubisoft’s Premium Content Delivery
- ‘Starting 5’: LeBron James, Jayson Tatum and Jimmy Butler Among NBA Players Featured in Obamas-Produced Sports Series
- Michelle Yeoh Will Not Appear in ‘Avatar 3,’ Says James Cameron: ‘She’s in 4 and 5’
- BSW PREDICTION. BSW cryptocurrency
- TANK PREDICTION. TANK cryptocurrency
2024-08-16 14:46