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Mun is a deputy leader of the Puea Pandin Party, of which Vatana was chairman. The Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Political Office Holders sentenced Vatana to 10 years' jail on Monday for a corruption related to the Klong Dan wastewater treatment plant.

Mun yesterday defended Chonsawat's tainted record, saying he had learnt from "past mistakes", as well as his stint as mayor of Samut Prakan province.

"I have known him since he was young; he was a good boy and obedient. I am just like his uncle for the past 30 years," Mun said.

 "I ask him to be patient, not hot-headed, and to face problems with coolness. I think the mission is not too hard for him".

Last year, Chonsawat was accused of assaulting a traffic policeman when the officer tried to stop his vehicle at a checkpoint set up to screen drunk drivers.

Mun said yesterday he had talked to Vatana before the court made its ruling on Monday.

"I think he knew that it's difficult for him to return. He is aware of the fact and accepts it," he said.

Mun said Vatana had told him he expected a jail sentence.

"He is old now. It's better for him to find somewhere to rest than to fight a court battle. This case's statute of limitation is 15 years. I think Vatana will fade away from society. He no longer has any role now," Mun said.