Bangkok: Rangsiman Rome, a party-list MP for the Prachachon Party and chairman of the Security Committee, has emphasized the urgent need for the Thai government to take decisive action against the drug menace posed by the Wa State, particularly the proliferation of methamphetamine. Rome insists that it is the Prime Minister’s responsibility to lead this initiative without waiting for intervention from former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

According to Thai News Agency, Rome pointed out that the Wa State is currently the world’s largest source of drugs, with significant implications for Thailand, which is both a destination and a transit hub for these substances. He highlighted the Wa’s disregard for the Thai government, as evidenced by their environmentally damaging activities such as gold and rare earth mining, along with polluting the Kok River, which has sparked protests in Chiang Rai Province. The Wa State’s confidence in their immunity from Thai governmental action underscores the urgency of the situation.

Rome advocates for diplomatic engagement, suggesting that the Minister of Foreign Affairs engage with ASEAN countries and also include China in discussions, given its shared border with Myanmar. He underscored the necessity of implementing a range of measures against the Wa, from light to heavy, with a clear deadline for action.

In response to Thaksin’s suggestion of using personal relationships for negotiations, Rome asserted that it is the responsibility of Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra to lead the initiative. While acknowledging the familial ties between Ms. Paethongtarn and Mr. Thaksin, Rome stressed the importance of her establishing her leadership to gain respect from neighboring entities like the Wa. He criticized any perception of her as merely a nominee, urging Mr. Thaksin to support her role as a true leader rather than overshadowing her position.