25-3-2024 (BANGKOK) The Deputy Transport Minister refutes claims of any attempts by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to exert dominance over the Pheu Thai party, as the ex-premier prepares to visit the ruling party’s headquarters this Tuesday.
Minister Manaporn Charoensri stated on Sunday that Thaksin’s visit to the Pheu Thai party would uplift the spirits of Members of Parliament (MPs), many of whom share a close bond with the former PM.
Manaporn, also a lawmaker under the Pheu Thai banner, clarified that Thaksin’s presence would solely involve meeting party members and not participating in the weekly meeting to prepare for parliamentary debates.
“Thaksin commands widespread respect. His visit does not aim to control the party, as any management or decisions must be made by the party’s executives,” she added.
Reports indicate that Thaksin is expected to arrive at the Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok’s Huai Khwang district around 1:45 pm. MPs will convene in groups based on the provinces they represent for the meeting with the former leader.
This planned visit by the ex-premier follows his recent trip to partake in religious activities in Chiang Mai, where he engaged with several prominent political figures, including current PM Srettha Thavisin, ex-PM Somchai Wongsawat, and Agricultural Minister Thamanat Prompow.
Following his parole approval based on age and health conditions, Thaksin now resides at the Ban Chan Song La mansion in Bangkok’s Charan Sanitwong area.
The Pheu Thai party, now in government, traces its origins to the Thai Rak Thai Party established by Thaksin. The party secured victory in the 2001 general elections and achieved a landslide win in 2005, clinching 377 out of 500 seats in the House of Representatives.
However, following the 2006 military coup that ousted Thaksin’s administration, the Thai Rak Thai Party was dissolved amid allegations of electoral fraud. This led to the banning of 111 politicians, including ministers in the current government such as Deputy PM Phumtham Wechayachai, Deputy PM Somsak Thepsuthin, and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
