Pheu Thai Rules Out Thaksin Adviser Role on Release

Pheu Thai leader Julapun Amornvivat has confirmed that former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra will not take up a formal advisory role within the party following his scheduled parole on 11 May, while acknowledging his continued symbolic influence. The statement clarifies the party’s position amid speculation over Thaksin’s return to public life and its potential political impact.

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Speaking on 2 May 2026, Julapun, who also serves as labour minister, said the party has made no preparations related to Thaksin’s parole. He welcomed the development on personal grounds, noting Thaksin’s age and the benefit of being reunited with his family. He added that any party members wishing to greet him on release may do so in a personal capacity.

Julapun stressed that Pheu Thai operates as a political institution independent of any single individual. He said Thaksin remains a “spiritual figure” dating back to the Thai Rak Thai era, but insisted that party operations and decision-making rest solely with its executive committee. He underlined that there is no connection between Thaksin’s parole and the party’s governance.

Addressing questions about whether Thaksin could assume roles such as adviser or board member, Julapun said he does not expect this to happen. However, he acknowledged that Thaksin’s knowledge and experience could still contribute in other ways, including public speaking or offering opinions on political and economic matters.

Julapun did not rule out informal interactions, noting that personal meetings and discussions are natural among acquaintances. He said any useful ideas from Thaksin could potentially be considered if they benefit the country, but reiterated that this would not translate into formal involvement in party decisions.

On whether Thaksin might publicly signal political direction, Julapun said he could not comment and maintained that the party has no plans for Thaksin to take part in its decision-making process. Regarding the possibility of Thaksin wearing an electronic monitoring bracelet as part of parole conditions, he described it as a minor issue and said he had not followed the details.

Thaitabloid reported that Thaksin’s parole on 11 May is expected to draw attention to his public presence and informal influence. While Pheu Thai has drawn a clear line on formal roles, the extent of Thaksin’s engagement in political discourse may continue to shape perceptions in the coming weeks.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 3 May 2026