PUBLISHED: 30 Jul 2024 at 13:26
Members of the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) have expressed frustration over two songs released by a fellow party member backing Prawit Wongsuwon for the prime minister position.
Party secretary-general Thamanat Prompow publicly criticized the songs by Samart Janechaijitrawanich, expressing disapproval during a statement on Tuesday.
The two songs, titled “Uncle Tu Starts, Uncle Pom Follows Up” and “From the Heart of Uncle Pom to All Thais“, were introduced by Mr. Samart on Sunday.
Within the lyrics of “Uncle Tu Starts, Uncle Pom Follows Up“, it states, “What Uncle Tu has left unfinished, Uncle Pom is ready to carry on,” while “From the Heart of Uncle Pom to All Thais” includes the line, “Come rain or come shine. He still stands by our side to make our dreams come true.”
Despite a call for support from Mr. Samart, only 14 shares and limited engagement were noted as of Tuesday.
PPRP representative Phai Lik clarified that the songs were not an official party initiative, labeling them as an independent effort from a non-executive board member.
The releases came shortly after a tribute song for former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, “Missing Uncle Tu,” gained traction online. Prayut was appointed to the Privy Council in November 2023.
Some party members accused Mr. Samart of attempting to capitalize on the popularity of the previous song while highlighting the lack of activity within PPRP.
Mr. Phai emphasized the party’s prior achievements during Prayut’s administration, including the implementation of social welfare programs for vulnerable populations.
As tensions mount, Mr. Samart faces backlash as party members view his actions as undermining the current government, despite PPRP’s position in the coalition.
Capt. Thamanat issued a stern warning to Mr. Samart, threatening expulsion from the party if such actions continue.
Mr. Samart, perceived as a key supporter of Gen Prawit, aims to see him ascend to the premiership.
Amid these internal struggles, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin faces pressure from senators demanding his resignation after a controversial cabinet appointment linked to electoral fraud allegations. This appointee has since resigned.
