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Thailand Prime Minister Sparks Loyalty Talk by Gifting Casio Watches to Ministers
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CNBC TV18•14-10-2026, 07:38
Thailand Prime Minister Sparks Loyalty Talk by Gifting Casio Watches to Ministers
- •Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has gifted engraved Casio AE1200WH digital watches to cabinet ministers, senior bureaucrats, and political allies.
- •The affordable retro watches have been nicknamed the Casio Royale and symbolize proximity to power and political loyalty within the government.
- •While government officials downplay the gesture as a practical gift, political analysts suggest the watches help forge alliances and create obligations.
- •High-profile recipients include potential coalition partners, fueling speculation about shifting political dynamics and growing influence in Thailand.
Key Questions Answered
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is gifting cabinet ministers, senior bureaucrats, and political allies the Casio AE1200WH digital watch, which is engraved with his name and nicknamed the "Casio Royale" or "Casio Connection".
The retro-futuristic digital Casio watches gifted by Prime Minister Anutin cost less than $60, a stark contrast to the expensive luxury timepieces typically associated with Thai politicians.
Analysts note that receiving a personal gift from the prime minister can create an obligation to return the favor, cultivating a sense of loyalty and helping Anutin build friends, followers, and political factions.
