Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra will face a no-confidence vote on Wednesday. After two days of intense questioning, the opposition is challenging her leadership. Therefore, this vote will test the unity of her ruling coalition.

Strong Coalition Despite Criticism

Paetongtarn, 38, became Thailand’s youngest prime minister in August. Although her approval ratings are not high, she is expected to win the vote. So far, her 11-party coalition has shown no signs of division.

Meanwhile, the opposition has accused her of economic mismanagement, tax evasion, and favoritism toward her wealthy family. In addition, they claim her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, is interfering in government affairs. However, analysts believe these allegations will not weaken her leadership.

Numbers Favor Her Survival

Paetongtarn’s coalition controls 320 of the 500 seats in the lower house. As a result, the motion will fail unless more than half of the lawmakers present vote against her. Right now, that seems unlikely.

Opposition Targets Thaksin’s Influence

The opposition People’s Party, the largest in parliament, focused on her close relationship with Thaksin. He is a former prime minister and billionaire. Previously, a court convicted him of conflicts of interest and abuse of power, forcing him into self-exile for 15 years.

However, in 2023, he returned to Thailand. The government detained him for six months in a hospital under Pheu Thai Party rule. Later, he received parole and announced his retirement from politics.

Paetongtarn Defends Herself

Paetongtarn is the fourth member of her family to serve as prime minister. Despite the accusations, she firmly rejected them and insisted she makes her own decisions. Nevertheless, she admitted she values her father’s advice.

“I am doing this with the best of my abilities. I am also Thaksin Shinawatra’s daughter, I say this proudly,” she said in her closing remarks.

Finally, she urged lawmakers to judge her by her work. “I ask all of you to assess my skills and efforts as prime minister. Criticism should be about the work. That will be more beneficial for this parliament and the country.”