Some critics were quick to dismiss the new food safety authority, because the group is designed to advise, but will not be able to regulate food production and handling.

CNN: Food Central - European Union to create food safety watchdog

Recently Thaksin opponents were able to derail the proposed privatization of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) because of a dispute over its ownership of some assets and the presence of one of Thaksin's economic aides, Olarn Chaipravat (with his own vested interests in EGAT), advising EGAT on the deal.

FORBES: After Thaksin

The United Nations Security Council today authorized the formation of an international tribunal to try suspects in the 2005 assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri, although some members warned that the move could have serious political repercussions because the Council was exceeding its authority and interfering in Lebanese affairs.

UN: Security Council