Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has welcomed Srettha Thavisin’s idea of having convicted former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra act as an advisor, once he completes serving time in prison.

“Thaksin could be assigned as the prime minister’s chief advisor. My understanding is that Srettha wishes to learn from Thaksin’s experience and capabilities,” said Phumtham, who is also commerce minister, adding that he will look into the legality of such a move.

“I believe he (Thaksin) has value to add to the government and to the people of Thailand,” Srettha said during a recent interview with Bloomberg Television in New York.

He also mentioned Thaksin’s popularity. “He was, and probably still is the most popular prime minister in the history of Thai politics,” Srettha claimed.

“To give advice and opinions is something that Thaksin could do, as he ran the country as premier for six years,” said Phumtham said, adding Thaksin, meanwhile, would like to be with his family and anything he could do for the country, he would certainly do.