Buri Ram Coalition Vows Unity, Deflects MotoGP Concerns
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s recent visit to Buri Ram province, a Bhumjaithai Party (BJT) stronghold, fueled speculation about the ruling coalition’s stability. However, BJT officials swiftly dismissed such rumors, framing the visit as a routine engagement focused on provincial development, not political maneuvering. Ms. Shinawatra’s presence—opening a government workshop on provincial development alongside key figures, including Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul—was presented as standard procedure.
BJT Secretary-General Chaichanok Chidchob emphasized the coalition’s strength, dismissing any political subtext to the visit, including party co-founder Newin Chidchob’s welcome and tour of the Chang International Circuit. Mr. Chidchob portrayed Mr. Newin, widely considered the party’s de facto leader, as simply extending customary hospitality. He further highlighted the BJT’s aim to showcase the “Buri Ram Model” of development, suggesting its potential applicability to other provinces. This model, according to BJT representatives, successfully integrates sports, tourism, and economic development.
“We’ve never been in conflict to begin with.” — Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra
This visit occurs within a broader context of Thai political history, marked by periods of both coalition governments and instability. The current political landscape mirrors past instances where regional power brokers, like Mr. Newin, significantly shaped national politics. This dynamic isn’t unique to Thailand; similar patterns of regional influence appear in other countries with decentralized political systems.
The future of government financial support for the MotoGP Grand Prix at Chang International Circuit—a major point of contention—was reportedly not discussed. Rumors of potential sponsorship withdrawal, fueled by a Facebook post from Mr. Newin, recently surfaced. However, both Ms. Shinawatra and the Tourism and Sports Minister previously affirmed that any decision regarding the MotoGP contract would be based solely on economic viability.
The visit highlighted Chang International Circuit, built with a focus on spectator experience and affordable ticketing, as a model for event hosting. The circuit has proven a significant economic engine for the region. This year’s MotoGP race (February 28th–March 2nd) drew a record-breaking 224,624 spectators, injecting 5.04 billion baht into the local economy. This underscores the high stakes involved in the MotoGP contract’s future in Buri Ram.
Key Takeaways from the Prime Minister’s Visit:
- Emphasis on provincial development as the visit’s focus.
- Reiteration of the strong coalition between Pheu Thai and BJT.
- Showcase of the “Buri Ram Model” of development.
- Downplaying the significance of discussions regarding the MotoGP contract.
What does this visit mean for the coalition’s future? While BJT officials presented a unified front, the visit underscores the delicate balancing act required to maintain coalition stability in Thai politics. The MotoGP contract renewal, and its economic implications for Buri Ram, could become a key pressure point in the relationship between the two parties.
Will the “Buri Ram Model” be adopted in other provinces? The feasibility of replicating the Buri Ram approach elsewhere remains uncertain. The model’s success is intrinsically linked to Buri Ram’s unique circumstances, including the Chang International Circuit and Mr. Newin’s influence.
In conclusion, while the official narrative surrounding Ms. Shinawatra’s visit emphasizes provincial development and coalition unity, the underlying political currents remain complex. The visit’s long-term implications for the ruling coalition’s stability and the future of the MotoGP contract in Buri Ram will continue to be closely scrutinized. For more detail, see this Bangkok Post article.
