Thanyaburi: The Prime Minister refused to elaborate on his remarks praising the people of Thanyaburi for consuming stevia, which he linked to their electoral success. He emphasized the health benefits of stevia as a sugar substitute, clarifying that his comments were not meant to refer to any other type of grass, as some have interpreted.
According to Thai News Agency, the former mayor of Thanyaburi Municipality, Mr. Kritsada Leenawarat, also known as “Mayor Biaw,” along with his family, held a press conference to celebrate their electoral victory. Mr. Leenawarat expressed gratitude to the residents of Thanyaburi for their trust and support. He humorously remarked that their preference for stevia over “bitter grass” was a factor in their win, affirming that the people of Thanyaburi will continue to consume stevia.
Following the Prime Minister’s speech, he was met with enthusiastic cheers from his supporters. However, the statement sparked debate on social media, with some users questioning the appropriateness of his remarks, given the multiple interpretations they could invite.
When pressed for a comment, Prime Minister Biaw downplayed the controversy, stating that the issue had been over-interpreted and reiterating that his intention was simply to highlight the health benefits of stevia, which is favored by the people of Thanyaburi.
Meanwhile, Jom Phalang, a political figure accused of interfering in a separate incident involving Mr. Smitthipat Leenawarat, posed a rhetorical question online. He queried whether the statement about Thanyaburi’s stevia consumption was indeed a compliment from politicians to the locals.