National —
At 9:50 AM, on July 16th, 2024, Mr. Wissanu Krea-ngam, the Advisor to the Thai Prime Minister, addressed the possibility of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra joining the government as an advisor or in another role after the end of his six-month parole on August 22nd.
Wissanu stated that while Thaksin could hold various positions not prohibited by the constitution, such as a minister, he could still assist the government in other capacities.
Wissanu clarified that Thaksin’s involvement does not necessarily require an official position and could be in a non-political advisory role.
When asked about Thaksin serving as a special representative for the Prime Minister, Wissanu explained that this could only be on a case-by-case basis and not as a trade representative.
Regarding Thaksin’s ability to help the Pheu Thai Party, Wissanu noted that as a party member, Thaksin could assist without it being considered interference. However, if he were not a member, certain activities might be deemed as such.
When questioned about Thaksin’s eligibility to rejoin the Pheu Thai Party post-parole, Wissanu confirmed that it is possible. He also addressed concerns about Thaksin’s current legal issues on Section 112 of the Criminal Code or Lèse-Majesté, stating that having pending cases does not prevent party membership or holding certain government positions.
Wissanu dismissed concerns about public confusion over having two Prime Ministers, citing historical precedents of influential figures assisting the government without causing issues.
However, Thaksin cannot become Prime Minister again under the current 2017 constitution due to his conviction, though future constitutional changes could alter this, remarked Wissanu.
