35. Pro-Thaksin Wins

BANGKOK (AFP) - Allies of deposed Thai premier Thaksin Shinawatra claimed victory in Sunday's elections, setting the stage for the billionaire's political comeback more than a year after his ouster in a coup.

Samak Sundaravej said his People Power Party (PPP), which regroups Thaksin's political allies, would form the next government although he predicted they would fall short of an absolute majority in parliament.

"I will be the next prime minister for sure," Samak told reporters, adding that he had invited other parties to join PPP in a coalition. Read more...