Isaan gran sends PM a blessing, but ends in hospital

"I am glad you still keep my ring which I gave you with all my love and sincerity," said the 84-year-old grandma in a telephone call yesterday aired by Channel 7.

In reply, Abhisit pledged not to disappoint his favourite grandma.

"I am 100 per cent committed to serve the country," he said, adding that he would reciprocate her goodwill by doing his job to develop the country. He also wished her good health.

Nium, from Muang Sam Sip district in Ubon Ratchathani, rose to prominence overnight after Abhisit mentioned her in his speech on Wednesday evening following the ceremony to receive royal endorsement of his appointment.

He said he was reminded about his bond with Isaan people at all times after Nium gave him the ring as a memento for his engagement and commitment to the Northeast. He met her on the campaign trail in the lead-up to the December 23 election.

"I can't help mention grandma Nium. When I was there on an election campaign she gave me this ring and said I was now engaged to northeasterners," Abhisit said tearfully, raising the gold ring as he spoke.

"I don't know if grandma Nium is watching. But I'd like to tell her today that the man who received the ring from her will work for her, her relatives, her northeastern people and all her Thai compatriots with fairness, dedication and honesty," he said in a clear message to rural people, including those in the Northeast where the Democrats have struggled to win votes.

Indeed, grandma Nium was watching the PM on television at that moment. She was very glad with the PM. She cried and paid respects to sacred beings to say thanks for Abhisit becoming prime minister.

Grandma Nium's house yesterday was crowded with local villagers. Many people prodded her to ask Abhisit for development projects for their areas. However, Nium ended up being admitted to a nearby hospital due to high fever and high blood pressure.