One was Finance Minister Chalongphob Sussangkarn's proposal to maintain his power over the nomination and sacking of the central-bank governor. Another was his decision on the proposed revision of the property-related tax. Also in public focus was the appearance of Pojaman Shinawatra, ousted prime minister Thaksin's wife, at Criminal Court.

As expected, Pojaman pleaded not guilty to the charge that she deliberately evaded paying taxes stemming from the transfer of her shares in Shin Corp to her brother.

Forget what she said, many now wonder where the case will lead. Most importantly, if she is convicted, Pojaman would be immediately sent to prison because this is a criminal charge. Pojaman could face 14 years in jail. It is beyond imagination to paint a picture of what it would be like for one of the richest women in Thailand to land in prison.

That may explain why Agence France-Presse came up with a feature article under the headline, "Pojaman Shinawatra, silent partner in Thaksin's empire".

Here is how the story goes: "Pojaman is the silent partner in her husband's political and corporate interests.

"Described by Thaksin as his conscience and the only person he completely trusts, she built up a fortune guiding his decision-making but now risks prison over their lucrative business dealings.

"'No matter how important I have become, I always listen to her,' Thaksin once told reporters while he was still prime minister. He was ousted in a coup in September.

"Always perfectly coifed and dressed in sharp tailored suits, Pojaman often appears in the Thai media but rarely says anything.

"Rather, she perfected the art of appearing in public as the concerned wife and mother, allowing cameras to capture her during religious ceremonies or accompanying Thaksin and their three children.

"While Thaksin has stayed in exile since the coup, she has shuttled in and out of the country, managing his affairs here and then travelling to meet him as he travels the world."

Indeed, the Thai police also anticipated huge interest in the prosecution against Pojaman, as about 50 officers were stationed in front of the court. Too bad, they had didn't have much to do. Only 20 people showed up to give Pojaman moral support.

And her lawyer was quick to say that they were asked not to show up as they could risk arrest.

Whatever, the Agence France-Presse article showed how much the foreign community is interested in what's going on in Thai politics. Overseas newspapers can make use of this article.

Indeed, our friends out there should count how many newspapers are publishing the story.

achara_d@nationgroup.com