Dr. Chen Yotsanan, Pheu Thai's prime minister candidate, points out that entering politics at the same age as Uncle Thaksin is a coincidence. He is not worried about sharing the same political fate. He clarifies his relationship with a Cambodian MP, stating his sister ended their relationship five years ago and asks that this not be made a political issue.
On 18 December 2025, Mr. Yotsanan Wongsawat, or Dr. Chen, Pheu Thai’s prime minister candidate, spoke openly on the program “Open Up with Phakphum” on Thairath TV. During the show, he was asked about former Prime Minister Mrs. Paethongtarn Shinawatra’s visit that day to Thaksin Shinawatra at Klong Prem Central Prison. Thaksin sent encouragement to Yotsanan, his nephew, noting that he was beginning his political path at age 46, close to Thaksin’s age when he started. Yotsanan laughed and said he was waiting to launch his career at the same age, explaining it was a coincidence he hadn’t noticed.
When asked if he feared ending his political career like Thaksin’s, Yotsanan said that if you fear going on stage, you become nervous because you are unprepared. He said he has helped develop policies and has experience from both political work and as a university employee. He has worked within government systems while connecting with the private sector on various projects. Seeing how budgets link to legislation helped him understand the process. He stressed the importance of developing scenarios to identify leverage points for policy-making and said he is sufficiently prepared. Therefore, he is not worried about what might happen. His policies will comply with the law, and with firm principles, he is confident of success.
Regarding the public reaction since Pheu Thai announced their prime minister candidate two days ago, Yotsanan said many people have offered encouragement and advice through comments and tags. He is pleased because this shows that his vision has given people hope and motivated them to participate. He is currently open to listening to various ideas and believes things are moving in a positive direction.
When asked if he has encountered his sister in politics, Yotsanan said he views this as a daily challenge that makes him stronger each day.
On his ties with the Cambodian MP, Yotsanan clarified that as a Thai citizen and potentially as a government official, his position is that national sovereignty is paramount. He would respond to defend sovereignty appropriately. The military must protect the people, and diplomacy and military efforts must go hand in hand.
Regarding photos taken together at his sister’s wedding with the Cambodian MP, Yotsanan explained this is a personal matter. His sister and the MP separated five years ago, and she is no longer involved. He thanked Thairath for the opportunity to clarify this issue.
Yotsanan emphasized that this is not just his or his sister’s problem but that Thailand should not politicize personal matters. He believes moving forward does not require pulling others down. Political competition should be about serving the people. Starting together and moving forward together will benefit Thailand. He also expressed concern for his sister, a single mother, assuring her not to worry as he is fighting wholeheartedly.