Pojaman shows again she's one hard cookie

Pojaman Shinawatra, the wife of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, has proved that she could be one of the very few. She ably composes herself even when the stormiest times come. On the day when she was sentenced to three years' imprisonment, she revealed nothing in her facial expression, only embracing her children in the court after the verdict was read.

When leaving the court, she was the one who steered her husband, who looked grim and was near to tears, into a car, then shoved her daughters into the car.

It is not hard to believe that this is the woman who has driven Thaksin this far.

Much of Thaksin's political success was undoubtedly driven by the success story in the business world, when his own company rose from a family business to the country's largest telecom giant. The success convinced his supporters that with a strong will, one could be as successful as the former premier. Thaksin also used this ploy in his first political campaign.

Many close aides know that Thaksin would not have been this successful without Pojaman.

Though the family sold its stake in Shin Corp, it is still remembered that Pojaman adopted a handson approach in helping Thaksin run the family empire.

Though having no title, Pojaman had her own office at the original company premises in Rajawat. Once the office was moved to Shinawatra I Building, she had an entire floor for herself and her own staff.

Executives still remember her generosity. Upon joining the company, she asked them all about their financial and family obligations and was ready to fulfil their needs in return for their devoted service to the company. At New Year, the executives were also awarded special gifts as tokens of gratitude. No wonder Shin Group rose rapidly back then.

When Thaksin was in exile, it was Pojaman who came back to Bangkok and tried to build a bridge for her husband's return. For two years, she has always been seen beside her family members to show support.

Many antiThaksin people may be happy that she could be put in jail, but no matter what, Pojaman will not soften her guard. She showed yesterday that she still has great strength to fight for herself and her family.