Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong has insisted that parolee Thaksin Shinawatra has not broken the conditions of his release by engaging in political activities, because such activities are not prohibited.
Thaksin is scheduled to visit the Pheu Thai party this afternoon, reportedly to allow party members to meet him to express their good wishes, instead of visiting him at his private residence.
Tawee said that Thaksin is still on parole, is required to report to Probation Department officials periodically and must abide by the conditions of his parole, which include, among others, no involvement with narcotics and no visiting other parolees.
Meeting Pheu Thai MPs this afternoon is not forbidden, said the justice minister, as he defended the Corrections Department, saying that the department is powerless to restrain Thaksin’s activities, other than those which are specifically forbidden.
He also said that the Justice Ministry has no authority to interfere with the private affairs of parolees, beyond its designated duties and responsibilities.
Many Pheu Thai MPs are expected to show up to greet Thaksin, as he has not visited the party for about 17 years.
Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit said today that he will definitely meet Thaksin, as he recalled the old days when he served as the secretary-general of the now defunct Thai Rak Thai party, while Thaksin was its leader.
If there is an opportunity in the future, he said he would seek advice from the former prime minister about how to restore the old glory of Suvarnabhumi international airport being one of the world’s top airports.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin will be engaged in other business this afternoon.
