Bhumjaithai member ready to build new legacy

Saraburi seat hopeful aims to end old divisions, writes Aekarach Sattaburuth

Politics has been a lifelong passion for Thanakit Tiamchaiboontawee, even though it was ill-perceived by his father. Mr Thanakit has been engrossed in his political interests since he was a young boy. He has a relative who served as a Lop Buri provincial councillor, and that relative was one of his inspirations that set his life’s compass pointing toward a political career.

The 26-year-old has declared himself ready to embark on his own political journey with the Bhumjaithai Party.

Mr Thanakit earned his bachelor’s degree in economics (International Programme) from Chulalongkorn University. He is now furthering his studies with a master’s degree in the same field.

Mr Thanakit recalled his time as a boy following his councillor relative around the villages visiting constituents. He was in awe of his relative’s conduct and the unique charm of a politician that emanated from him.

When he grew older, he sat at forums listening to politicians deliver impassioned speeches to voters who were glued to their seats. He was listening out for new political ideas and was eager to l earn from them.

One day, he booked a seat for a lecture at Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Economics where Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul was a speaker. He came away impressed with the party and its leader.

The event was informal and friendly. But the forum’s biggest magnet was that it gave him a chance to have a conversation with Mr Anutin.

Mr Thanakit said he asked Mr Anutin what he had to do if he wanted to be a politician. Mr Anutin’s reply was that determination and conviction were key factors.

“Build your own legacy [as a politician],” Mr Thanakit quoted the Bhumjaithai leader as saying at the event. “I remember his words well,” he added.

He had planned to apply for membership of Bhumjaithai with Watcharapong Kuwijitsuwan, who had been elected the party’s MP for Saraburi, which is Mr Thanakit’s home province. Mr Watcharapong was also known to retain close ties with Mr Anutin.

When the party opened its member registration, Mr Watcharapong phoned Mr Thanakit, asking him to join the party.

“I think it requires courage [to enter politics],” said Mr Thanakit. “Not everyone can do this. Apart from determination, courage is also a requisite.”

He was born to a well-known family in Saraburi, which deals in construction and real estate. Mr Thanakit said his father was repeatedly invited to enter politics, but always turned down the offer, saying politics had been brought into disrepute.

At first, his father was worried Mr Thanakit was pursuing a political career. Now, his father is glad of it, the young politician said.

Mr Thanakit said he is well aware that politicians have to make sacrifices.

“This is something I chose to do. I’m not against making sacrifices for the public interest. My parents now do not object to the choices I have made,” said Mr Thanakit.

He said he wants to contest the next election in Phra Phutthabat district of Saraburi, the constituency which was won in the last election by Ongart Wongprayoon, of the Pheu Thai Party.

Mr Thanakit said the former Bhumjaithai candidate in the constituency has already moved to the pro-regime Palang Pracharath Party (PPP), leaving a vacant seat for him to fill.

The PPP is believed to be a key vehicle for Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha’s return as the premier after the poll, expected in February next year.

Several cabinet ministers of the government have taken up important posts in the PPP, including Industry Minister Uttama Savanayana who is also the party leader.

“I entered politics of my own accord. It goes without saying that I am driven to be an MP,” said Mr Thanakit. But he admitted he may need the help of his family, who is widely known in Saraburi, in canvassing for him.

“My father has always been working for the public,” the young politician said, adding his father has served as a board member for several organisations, including an educational institute.

“I will work with full effort for the party. If the party gives me a chance, I will do my best. I would never waste such an opportunity,” he said.

He said he wants Saraburi people, who may have left the province to study elsewhere, to come back and help develop the province. He said the move is consistent with the party’s policy that aims to empower people and reduce state power in the provinces.

The younger politicians must not resort to seeking democratic elections through the divide-andrule method, which breeds hatred and division, he said. “I do not want people to engage in fights any more,” he added.

‘‘ I think it requires courage [to enter politics] ... Not everyone can do this. Apart from determination, courage is also a requisite.

THANAKIT TIAMCHAIBOONTAWEE BHUMJAITHAI PARTY MEMBER