BANGKOK: The Election Commission of Thailand has agreed to review a petition seeking the dissolution of the Pheu Thai Party and six other political parties amid allegations of undue influence by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The move has sparked conversations about political influence and party dynamics within the current Thai government. According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chusak Sirinil, a Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office and head of the government's legal department, addressed concerns following reports that Mr. Saeng Boonmee, Secretary-General of the Election Commission and registrar of political parties, had accepted six petitions. These petitions were filed by individuals requesting the dissolution of the Pheu Thai Party and its former coalition partners. The petitions allege that Mr. Thaksin, despite not being a member of any political party, exerted influence over these parties. The Election Commission has found sufficient grounds to initiate an investigation into these cla ims. Mr. Chusak stated that the acceptance of the petitions by the Election Commission was expected and that he had previously addressed the issue. He questioned whether the core leaders of the coalition parties had indeed discussed and agreed upon any matters with Mr. Thaksin when they reportedly met at the Chan Song La house. He emphasized that subsequent meetings, such as those held by the Pheu Thai Party, showed no evidence of external influence. In response to further queries, Mr. Chusak reiterated that there was no indication of party domination by Mr. Thaksin. Regarding allegations within the petition that Mr. Thaksin had ordered the Palang Pracharath Party not to join the government, Mr. Chusak clarified that this issue was unrelated to the core party's role in the government. The situation remains a matter of internal party dynamics and governance.