How fortune-telling and politics intertwine in Thailand
Politicians including the prime minister regularly seek guidance from astrologers in times of doubt
“Fortune-tellers told me to speak less to maintain a good political atmosphere. I will obey their advice,” Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha recently told reporters before cutting short a press conference, referring to a reading from astrologers who urged the outspoken junta leader to speak less.
The advice was aimed at cooling the political tone. The prediction about Prayut’s remarks came after the junta leader invoked a number of strong measures dealing with opponents to maintain order in the country, but those harsh measures also drew criticism.
In addition, Prayut himself sometimes blasted the media when asked questions that angered him, including about such topics as prolonging his power, the constitutional referendum, and anti-government movements.
Those questions were among the issues that made Prayut feel uneasy and say unpleasant comments that enflamed the political situation.
Although Prayut’s comment did not prove that he truly believes in astrology, many incidents have shown that astrology and Thai politics are undoubtedly connected. A number of people, from ordinary people to the elites, have sought guidance from fortune-tellers who provide predictions with various mystic methods.
