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Published on April 17, 2008

Pongthep said the foundation was aimed at letting the 111 banned former Thai Rak Thai executives contribute to society. Their voting rights were revoked after the Constitution Tribunal dissolved the party last May.

Among dozens of founding members, Pongthep said he would be an ad-hoc chairman of the foundation, while Wichit Plangsrisakul would be secretary-general.

Establishment of the foundation is undergoing the legal process, he said.

It was uncertain whether Thaksin, as well as other banned former Thai Rak Thai executives who already support other parties, would be able to attend the launching ceremony.

Pongthep said the foundation would not be Thaksin's platform for a political role, because he already had many platforms and positions.

Thaksin does not want to be in the spotlight, but instead wants to live his life quietly, Pongthep said. However, the media continues to ask him questions. Regarding the constitutional amendments, Thaksin will only reply to media questions and comment as a Thai citizen and not make speeches.

Thaksin's comment was that changes should be made to improve matters while leaving what is good untouched. Nevertheless, the 2007 Constitution was drafted under a coup-appointed government, so it is not really democratic, he said.

Attempts by the People Power Party to push the proposed constitutional amendments are right and will not create turmoil, Pongthep said.

The Nation