BANGKOK, Oct 14, 2010 (AFP) - Thailand's fugitive former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra is preparing to step up his political activities from exile ahead of elections next year, his party said Thursday.
In a video link to a meeting of the opposition Puea Thai Party on Wednesday, the former billionaire telecoms tycoon offered his assistance in the poll battle, said spokesman Prompong Nopparit.
"He said he is ready to give advice about economic problems, advice to candidates during campaigns and advice about party policies," Prompong said.
By law Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva must hold an election by the end of 2011.
Thaksin, who lives abroad to avoid a jail term for corruption, drew wide support from Thailand's rural poor during office but was deposed by a military coup in 2006 and faces allegations of corruption and abuse of power.
He has been in self-imposed exile but still commands the loyalty of thousands of supporters, including many members of the "Red Shirt" opposition movement behind mass street protests in Bangkok in April and May.
Thai courts have issued a series of arrest warrants for Thaksin for charges including terrorism -- an accusation linked to the violent street rallies. The authorities have accused him of bankrolling the protests and inciting unrest.
Thaksin has said the terrorism charges are "politically motivated".
In his push for a return to Thailand, he has regularly used video messages to encourage fans but his broadcasts diminished during the April-May protests, which left 91 people dead in clashes between troops and demonstrators.
Prompong said he expected Thaksin to address the party "only at appropriate times."
"He hasn't spoken much recently because he wants reconciliation. He does not want this government to be suspicious about him," the spokesman said.
