Bangkok: Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra visited his family for the 20th time since his incarceration, as the country’s provincial prisons organized a day of in-person visits as part of a traditional New Year’s celebration. This occasion allowed families to dine together at the same table, and members of the Shinawatra family, including former Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra (“Ing”), Panthongtae Shinawatra (“Oak”), and Pinthongtha Shinawatra Kunakornwong (“Aem”), were present. Paethongtarn’s husband Pitak Suksawat and Panthongtae’s wife Natthaya Puangkam also joined the gathering. The family arrived with smiles and greeted supporters, known as the Red Shirts, who had gathered outside the prison to show their support.

According to Thai News Agency, Thaksin’s personal lawyer, Winyat Chatmontri, arranged the visit, allowing the family to spend two hours together. During this time, they dined and caught up with each other. A notable moment was when Ms. Paethongtarn held a souvenir photo of her children with Thaksin, taken during his release from prison. It was observed that Thaksin was wearing a light blue shirt, had short hair, and was smiling. He shared in an interview that he enjoyed dining with his family, mentioning his meal of kuay jap and a burger, which he had not eaten for some time.

Reporters inquired about Thaksin’s thoughts on the ongoing flooding issues. Ms. Paethongtarn conveyed that Thaksin was concerned and had much to say on the matter, emphasizing that her health was fine amidst these discussions.