Thai netizens across social media platforms have had mixed reactions to an incident in which Prime Minister Paetongtarn led her Cabinet members in performing a “mini heart” hand gesture during an official photo shoot at Government House yesterday.
Most of her cabinet members followed her lead, until a government official informed them that the gesture was not appropriate due to them being attired in their formal all-white uniforms.
Paetongtarn appeared to be surprised and lowered her hands.
Many took to social media platforms, such as Facebook and X, to criticise her, suggesting that she should have been more aware of the gravity of her role as the Prime Minister of Thailand.
“She should have behaved better than this. She is now the leader of the country, no longer the youngest child in the family,” one commentator said.
Paetongtarn, the youngest daughter of former PM Thaksin Shinawatra and Khunying Potjaman Na Pombejra, is also the leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party.
Her rise to leadership, despite limited political experience, is believed to be the result of negotiations by and support from her father.
One commentator, whose remarks were liked by many, suggested that this incident might be just the beginning of Paetongtarn's gaffes.
“This is the beginning. She has to learn more about behaving as the premier. Along the way, there will surely be more,” he said.
Many others are showing support and sympathy, though, arguing that, at 38 years old, she is the youngest prime minister in Thai history.
“The tasks of governing the country are probably challenging for someone so young. I believe she is a quick learner and has a good team of qualified people around her,” said another supporter.
Meanwhile, a supporter criticised those mocking her for politicising the matter, due to their dislike of her father and her party.
“The PM made just a minor mistake and, once she realised it, she stopped. Don’t politicise it and mock her,” they wrote.
Another recommendation was for the premier to avoid reading comments on social media, as they often come from people who have nothing else to do.
