BANGKOK – As the nation continues to struggle its way through the current political crisis, key offstage players are being increasingly watched for any signs of movement in their power play. While the PAD’s Sondhi and Chamlong argue in the press with Prime Minister Samak and PPP cabinet members, analysts believe that the real decisions that may determine the outcome of the predicament are taking place behind closed doors among army generals, business elites, and Fufu the Poodle.
Fufu, the favored pet of His Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, has long been seen as a “silent player” in the complex interplay between political factions and entrenched interests in the Kingdom. Since coming onto the scene in 2001, the fluffy white dog, with his signature impeccable grooming, has appeared at many official functions greeting international dignitaries. Additionally, Fufu is believed to have been attending high-end military meetings since 2003 with the Crown Prince.
“Fufu is definitely someone whose position matters,” explained Boonchai Kritsada, a researcher in political science at Thammasat University . “He has access to all the right people, influence within the royal family, and is respected as a dog who speaks his mind.” Boonchai also noted that Fufu’s official rank of captain in the Royal Thai Air Force was deceptive, because he “never consorts with anyone below the rank of colonel.”
Although Fufu had no official role in the September 2006 coup that ousted Thaksin Shinawatra, many believe that an earlier incident in May of that year, in which Fufu was seen growling in the Prime Minister’s general direction at a Coronation Day function, indicated that the TRT-led government had fallen out of favor with the poodle. Speculation increased in August when Fufu was seen by several journalists defecating during Thaksin’s speech at a celebration of Her Majesty the Queen’s birthday.
As an active member of the military Fufu does not speak directly to the press, and so far has not gone on record with any known opinion of either Samak or the PAD. However, a palace insider reports that Fufu was seen licking the hand of Prem Tinsulanonda, a known enemy of Samak.
Additionally, the Thailand Tattler recently compiled a montage of Fufu’s fashionable doggie outfits during the 2008 social season, noting that “Thailand’s best-loved poodle has been making the hi-so rounds in sweaters of fine-spun yellow silk,” suggesting a sympathy with the PAD.
A palace spokesperson reiterated last week that “Fufu agrees in full with General Anupong’s insistence that there will be no coup,” referring to the statements made by the army leader. Scholars note, however, that Fufu’s representatives made similar assurances in 2006, and six months later was seen in the company of military-appointed Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont.
With the current Prime Minister scheduled to attend a UN meeting this week, the same that Thaksin attended in 2006 when he was ousted, all eyes will be on the military, not least the influential little dog who continues to hold sway over the Kingdom’s destiny.
