BANGKOK — The Pheu Thai Party confirmed on Wednesday that Paetongtarn Shinawatra will continue as its leader despite recent legal and political challenges, including her father Thaksin Shinawatra’s imprisonment. The party announced plans for internal restructuring to strengthen coordination and readiness for the upcoming general election.

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Key strategist Phumtham Wechayachai stated that Paetongtarn’s leadership remains unchallenged, with full support from party members. “She will continue in her role as long as party members believe in her capabilities and retain confidence in her,” he said. He acknowledged that many senior figures had been preoccupied with government duties, necessitating organizational reforms to improve efficiency.

The party is also preparing for the September 28 by-election in Si Sa Ket’s Constituency 5, triggered by the death of Pheu Thai MP Amorntep Sommai in June. Phumtham expressed confidence in the party’s campaign arrangements but did not confirm whether senior members would join the effort.

Responding to allegations from the CSI LA Facebook page that Paetongtarn’s associates exploited political connections for business gains, Phumtham emphasized that Pheu Thai politicians would cooperate fully with any judicial scrutiny.

The Constitutional Court today rejected three petitions, submitted separately by Pheu Thai MPs, including former prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, challenging the legitimacy of the court’s ruling on August 29 removing her as prime minister, over the phone conversation… pic.twitter.com/FZX4bYcE75

— Thai PBS World (@ThaiPBSWorld) September 11, 2025

Veteran member Prasert Jantararuangtong dismissed concerns about instability following Thaksin’s imprisonment, noting that MPs remain united and adaptive under Paetongtarn’s leadership.

Thammasat University law lecturer Assoc Prof Prinya Thaewanarumitkul highlighted the significance of the Supreme Court’s recent ruling, which scrutinized the Department of Corrections’ handling of Thaksin’s sentence. He noted that the department would face increased oversight as investigations proceed.

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The party’s commitment to restructuring signals a strategic shift to consolidate support and address internal challenges ahead of the next election.

-Thailand News (TN)