An unspectacular comeback trail

Following its exit from power, the Pheu Thai Party this week launched a video on its official Facebook page, the first in a new series titled “Pheu Thai Will Return”.

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The 23-minute clip featured party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra reflecting on the party's two years in government and assuring supporters of Pheu Thai’s readiness to continue unfinished work if given another chance to lead.

In her address, Ms Paetongtarn reiterated her support for signature policies, including the 20-baht cap on electric train fares, affordable housing projects, and education grants. She also highlighted ambitious tourism initiatives, such as bringing Formula 1 races and world-class entertainment festivals like Tomorrowland to Thailand to revitalise the economy.

However, the “comeback” motif has failed to excite political observers who say the announcement is not enough to ease the crisis of confidence Pheu Thai currently faces.

In recent months, Pheu Thai has suffered a steady loss of MPs to rivals such as the Bhumjaithai and Klatham parties. Many political families have either defected or signalled support for other camps that appear more politically secure.

These defections have worsened the party's troubles as it has already been shaken by court rulings that removed Ms Paetongtarn from the prime minister post and sent her father, former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, back to prison.