The Thai princess whose stunning announcement she was running for prime minister has thanked her supporters on Saturday, saying she wants Thailand to be “moving forward”.
Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya Sirivadhana Barnavadi, 67, whose decision was opposed by her brother, the king, spoke out again on Saturday.
In an Instagram post, the princess did not directly mention her brother or her political hopes, but thanked supporters for their “love and kindness toward each other over the past day” and expressed gratitude for their support for her.
“I would like to say once again that I want to see Thailand moving forward, being admirable and acceptable by international countries, want to see all Thais have rights, a chance, good living, happiness to all,” she said, concluding with “ŁILoveYou”.
She shocked the country on Friday when she announced she would be the prime ministerial candidate for a populist party loyal to ousted ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra, in a 24 March 24.
But her foray into politics – breaking with royal tradition – looked set to be short-lived after public opposition from her younger brother, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, which is likely to lead to her disqualification by the election commission.
The Thai Raksa Chart party, which nominated Ubolratana, cancelled a campaign event planned for Saturday but party leaders would not comment on the king’s opposition.
King Vajiralongkorn, 66, issued a message late on Friday, saying his elder sister’s candidacy was “inappropriate” and it was against the spirit of the constitution for royalty to be involved in politics.
While the Election Commission has the final say on approval of candidates, it seems unlikely its members would ignore the powerful influence of the king in making its decision.
Thailand has been a constitutional monarchy since 1932, but the royal family has wielded great influence.
Friday was the last day for parties to declare candidates.
Her main opponent in the March general election, if her nomination were to stand, would likely be the sitting prime minister, Prayuth Chan-ocha, who was army chief when he led the 2014 coup and now heads the ruling junta. He also announced his candidacy on Friday.
