The Pheu Thai Party is not being directed by Thaksin Shinawatra, its acting spokesman said on Tuesday, despite the suspicions of Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon and an Election Commission probe that could lead to its dissolution as the election approaches.
Anusorn Iamsa-ard bluntly denied Gen Prawit's claim that the party was under the influence of the fugitive former prime minister, saying the executive members were leading the party's affairs without outside interference.
- Earlier report: Prawit calls for Thaksin sway probe
"I can once again confirm that Dr Thaksin has no influence on the Pheu Thai Party," he said.
The latest denial came after Gen Prawit on Monday called on the Election Commission to conduct a probe into Thaksin's alleged role in Pheu Thai. The former prime minister has recently raised his political profile and made comments about the election, while Pheu Thai members visited him in Hong Kong earlier this month.
Thaksin has made several statements about Pheu Thai, including a comment on his birthday that the party would win the next election.
EC secretary-general Jarungvith Phumma said the poll-organising agency would look for evidence before taking action on the deputy prime minister's request.
Mr Anusorn of Pheu Thai questioned the neutrality of the EC after its quick response to the call by Gen Prawit. The EC has a duty to hold fair and clean elections with credibility, he said.
