Srettha Hints That He Sees Role For Thaksin In New Gov't After He Leaves Prison

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra seems poised to consolidate his influence over the new administration after Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin told Bloomberg that he envisages a role for Thaksin in his government while the veteran politician and business tycoon leaves prison.

• Thaksin was arrested on arrival to Thailand but his eight-year prison term was immediately commuted to one year, reportedly as a result of a deal between the pro-military establishment and the Pheu Thai Party (PTP), which has been the vehicle of Thaksin's influence in Thai politics during his time in exile.
• The patriarch of the Shinawatra clan is currently in a hospital outside of prison after undergoing surgery for an unspecified medical condition. His stay in hospital may allow him to avoid much of his shortened sentence. The Corrections Department said that he may apply for parole in February 2024.
• Thaksin's return to Thailand marks a major realignment in Thai politics, with the former Prime Minister teaming up with leaders of the coup which deposed his sister Yingluck Shinawatra.
• The Nation reports that multiple Shinawatra family members have been seen accompanying Pheu Thai ministers on their official trips, while Thaksin's daughter Paetongtarn has a solid chance of becoming Pheu Thai leader next month.