Thaksin celebrates subdued 57th birthday

By David Ogan

27 July 2006

Caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra enjoyed muted celebrations for his 57th birthday yesterday, opting to spend a quiet time at home with his family and offering alms to Buddhist monks.

A day after the three remaining Election Commission (EC) members he had championed were imprisoned for electoral malfeasance, Thaksin’s usually vibrant birthday celebration resembled more of a wake.

In the absence of well-wishers, usually comprising top Thai Rak Thai (TRT) executives, leaders of other parties, military top brass and celebrities, the atmosphere at Thaksin’s Charansanitwong 39 home was quiet.

Summoning nine monks to conduct prayer rites, Thaksin, his wife Khunying Pojaman and their three children later gave them alms as part of the low-key celebrations.

Thaksin did not conduct a blessing ceremony inside his house as in the past, and instead held prayers in a simple setting in his garden.

While appearing to be in a cheerful mood, Thaksin refused to comment directly on the political situation to the throng of reporters at his gate.

“I want the nation to achieve reconciliation and unity,” Thaksin said. “I also want His Majesty the King to enjoy good health.”

He did not comment on the decision of the Criminal Court on Monday to sentence Wassana Permlarp, Prinya Nakchudtree and Virachai Naewboonnien to four years jail for malfeasance in connection with the April 23 by-elections.

After concluding the blessing ceremony, Thaksin traveled to TRT party headquarters in the afternoon to discuss preparations for the October 15 general election with party executives.

Thai Day