The Shinawatra family—Aem, Oak, and Nong Pipe—visited Thaksin at Klong Prem Central Prison for the first time in 2026. Nong Pipe said he was representing his mother to send love and concern to his uncle.
At 09:45 on 5 Jan 2026 at Klong Prem Central Prison, Mr. Panthongtae Shinawatra, Ms. Natthiya Puangkam (his wife), Ms. Pinthongtha Shinawatra, Mr. Natthapong Khunakarawong (her husband), and Mr. Supasek Amornchat, known as Nong Pipe, 23 years old, son of former Prime Minister Ms. Yingluck Shinawatra, arrived accompanied by Mr. Winyat Chatmontri, Thaksin’s personal lawyer.
For Mr. Supasek Amornchat, this was his first visit to Thaksin since leaving to study abroad in 2019. He has completed bachelor's and master's degrees and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at Imperial College London.
Outside the prison, Red Shirt representatives expressed excitement and joy at seeing Mr. Supasek, exclaiming, “Oh, Nong Pipe, we’ve missed you so much. You look great.” They warmly embraced him, and he smiled and respectfully greeted the Red Shirt crowd. The group also extended New Year greetings to the Shinawatra family.
At 10:50, after the visit ended, Mr. Supasek said that during the visit, his uncle asked about his mother. He said he represented his mother and discussed his studies with his uncle. His mother also sent her love and concern to his uncle. Regarding New Year wishes, his uncle wished him and the family happiness and encouraged him to persevere in his studies.
When asked about his concerns after visiting Thaksin, Mr. Supasek said that being family, he naturally worries. He described his uncle as strong and a fighter. Although they are worried about him, his uncle is truly a fighter.
Ms. Pinthongtha spoke about the upcoming Children's Day event on 11-12 Jan at Klong Prem Central Prison, when close relatives will be allowed to visit. She said that since it is Children's Day and the grandchildren miss their grandfather very much, they will bring them if possible.
Mr. Panthongtae said he focused mainly on talking about the grandchildren, as both father and grandchildren miss each other. Regarding blessings for his father, they continue to support each other as before.
Reporters noted that Klong Prem Central Prison is preparing the "Happy Family Children's Day 2026" event, allowing children to visit their fathers, grandfathers, or great-grandfathers closely and share hugs on 11-12 Jan. Reservations can be made at the prison from 5-8 Jan or online during the same period.