PUBLISHED: 23 Dec 2024 at 12:49
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s administration has been labeled a “father-supported government” by Government House reporters, who have also coined the term “Paetongphoey” in reference to her reliance on scripted speeches during significant events.
As part of an end-of-year tradition, reporters at Government House assign playful nicknames to the government, the prime minister, and various cabinet ministers, highlighting their characteristics and actions.
The characterization of Ms. Paetongtarn’s administration emphasizes her father Thaksin Shinawatra’s influential role in her leadership. On Monday, she acknowledged that her father shares valuable insights and experiences with her.
The nickname “Paetongphoey” playfully combines her name with the Thai word “phoey,” which means script. In response to this, the prime minister humorously suggested that a more fitting name would be “Paetongpad,” as she prefers using her iPad over traditional paper scripts.
Additionally, reporters highlighted a memorable quote of the year, where the prime minister referred to her husband as a southerner while addressing concerns about flood victims in southern regions, following inquiries about her planned visits to affected areas.
