On November 7, Chusak Sirinil, Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, clarified that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is permitted to assist candidates in Udon Thani’s Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO) elections, scheduled for November 13-14. Thaksin has previously campaigned in this role without legal issues, most recently during the Chiang Mai PAO elections. According to the Election Commission of Thailand (ECT) rules, candidates can appoint campaign aides without specific eligibility restrictions. Chusak emphasized that Thaksin’s involvement aligns with ECT regulations and that it mirrors similar campaign support roles, such as Natthawut Saikua's role with the Pheu Thai Party.
Addressing concerns over potential legal challenges, Chusak reaffirmed that Thaksin’s actions comply with established guidelines. Regarding Udon Thani’s significance as a stronghold of “Red Shirt” supporters, Chusak noted that legal adherence, not provincial identity, governs campaign activities. He deferred questions about Pheu Thai’s strategy for reclaiming support in Udon Thani, suggesting that Thaksin’s future involvement will be determined based on necessity and legal precedent.