Bangkok: The coalition party dinner has commenced with former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra set to deliver a special lecture on politics. Core leaders of the coalition parties, along with Thaksin, gathered at the Eastin Grand Hotel, Phaya Thai, marking the first such event under the government of Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister and Minister of Culture.
According to Thai News Agency, the dinner aims to fortify relations after a recent cabinet reshuffle and the withdrawal of the Bhumjaithai Party from the coalition. The event, named 'United Thailand, Protecting Sovereignty, Solving Problems for the People,' serves to unite ministers, party leaders, and MPs from the coalition government. The highlight of the evening is Thaksin Shinawatra's special lecture, aimed at discussing political matters.
Core members and MPs from the Pheu Thai Party arrived around 5:00 p.m., following an earlier party MP meeting. Subsequently, representatives from various coalition parties made their way to the event. Notable attendees included Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, Minister of Industry Ekkanat Promphan, Minister of Justice Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong, among others.
Prime Minister and Minister of Culture Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra arrived at 5:30 p.m., awaiting Thaksin's arrival at 6 p.m. Upon his arrival, Ms. Paethongtarn greeted him warmly. When questioned by reporters about the content of his lecture, Thaksin stated that he would focus on political discussions. He did not address inquiries regarding potential charges of influence-peddling, instead proceeding into the event without comment.