Thailand’s government has been criticized for its response to the recent border clashes with Cambodia, which has raised concerns about Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s leadership and the country’s national security.
Cambodia claims that it is advancing its territorial claims in a bid to bolster domestic support ahead of elections. Analysts say that Thailand’s muted response may put the country at a disadvantage, as it allows Cambodia to act quickly without facing strong opposition.
Critics argue that the prime minister’s decision to leave the task of addressing the public to Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai was a failure to demonstrate strength in the face of a national security situation. The government’s handling of the flare-up has drawn criticism from both the public and within its governing coalition.
Assoc Prof Dulyapak Preecharush, an expert on Asian Studies, believes that Cambodia is using the dispute to strengthen the ruling Cambodian People’s Party. He also warned that Thailand’s slow response could lead to a serious disadvantage, as it gives Cambodia the opportunity to claim more territory.
Pichai Rattanadilok Na Phuket, a political science lecturer, echoed Assoc Prof Dulyapak’s views, saying that Cambodia is escalating tensions to stir nationalist sentiment ahead of its elections. He argued that Thailand needs to adopt a firm stance without calling for war unless completely unavoidable.
Olarn Thinbangtieo, deputy dean of Burapha University’s faculty of political science and law, urged the government to clarify what the dispute is about and stand firm in opposing Cambodia’s move to take the matter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Virot Ali, an international relations lecturer at Thammasat University, highlighted the importance of communication in resolving border disputes. He said that the prime minister should have personally addressed the public, adding it has been more than a week and the nation has yet to hear any substantial remarks from the premier.
The dispute remains unresolved, with bilateral talks necessary to resolve it and avoid risks to security and border trade. Analysts warn that Thailand’s government needs to adopt a unified stance without calling for war unless completely unavoidable to counter Cambodia’s territorial claims.
Source: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/special-reports/3044387/thai-govt-at-risk-of-looking-weak-in-border-dispute