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Pheu Thai U-turn on lese majeste law is just part of its ‘fighting while kowtowing’ strategy
16 Sept 01:51 Key points summarised by AI
- Pheu Thai, Thailand's main opposition party, abruptly reversed its initial push to amend the controversial lèse-majesté law (Article 112), disappointing reformist supporters.
- Analysts suggest the U-turn was a strategic maneuver to attract young voters before the upcoming general election, rather than a genuine commitment to reforming the monarchy.
- The party's de facto leader, Thaksin Shinawatra, publicly downplayed issues with Article 112, contradicting the initial reform effort and highlighting internal divisions or a calculated approach.
- Critics view Pheu Thai's actions as a "fighting while kowtowing" strategy, attempting to appeal to both reform-minded youth and conservative factions without fully committing to either.
- The Move Forward Party continues its determined campaign for Article 112 amendments, despite Pheu Thai's withdrawal, while Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha firmly rejects any changes to the law.
