Thaksin believed to remain at the center of the problem

July 14, 2008
Bangkok - The former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra who is facing a series of allegations in the court is said to remain at the center of the kingdom’s political conflict, according to analysts.

Thaksin has tried to be out of the spotlight in recent months, building an image of a man concerning mainly with his English football club Manchester City.

But analysts believe the billionaire is still at the center of the problem.

"We must be very clear. The target is Thaksin, no one else. Once he's dealt with, in some way things will ease off," Thailand analyst Chris Baker said.

The People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) has staged the street rally against Samak government for the past seven weeks, saying Samak is Thaksin's proxy.

Foreign minister Noppadon Pattama last week resigned after the controversial Preah Vihear temple. It was said Noppadon helped facilitate Cambodia’s temple registration in exchange for Thaksin’s business running in Koh Kong.

Bangkok's elite, traditionally centred on the palace and the military, despised Thaksin and feared changes to Thai society caused by his lavishing of resources and attention on the long-ignored poor, according to AFP.

"The crisis is about the restructuring of Thailand's economy and society... giving the grassroots a chance and opportunities, and hopes and dreams," said political analyst Thitinan Pongsudhirak of Chulalongkorn University.