Indeed.
The Shinawatras, and their circle, have always been deeply associated with the establishment ruling elite.
Nothing more, nothing less. Though, one might say they were/are a different branch of the ruling classes.....
The degradation that was put upon them and their types was all part of the show.....political theatre, if you might.
Those deluded masses that can't see the difference should be pitied for their ignorance and common perceptions.