The former prime minister of Thailand, 74-year-old Thaksin Shinawatra, is poised for a spectacular return to Thailand after spending more than 10 years in a self-imposed exile, after he was ousted in a military coup back in 2006.
He will be sent to prison upon his arrival in Thailand.
An Unexpected Announcement
The momentous announcement of Thaksin Shinawatra’s return to Thailand was made by his youngest daughter, Paetongtarn. She took to her social media pages to convey the news to the public, stating that she would be at Don Mueang Airport on August 22 at 9am to welcome her father back home. This revelation came after initial plans for his return on August 10 were altered.
อังคารที่ 22 สิงหาคม 9.00 น. ณ ดอนเมือง จะไปรับคุณพ่อทักษิณค่ะ
— Ing Shin (@ingshin) August 19, 2023
Coinciding with Thaksin’s scheduled return on August 22 is a significant parliamentary gathering that aims to decide on a new prime minister, thus concluding months of political deadlock. Amidst this backdrop, the Pheu Thai Party, with which Thaksin has strong affiliations, is set to nominate real estate magnate Srettha Thavisin for the role of prime minister of Thailand.
Legal Proceedings Await
Thaksin’s return is not without legal implications. Wissanu Krea-ngam, Thailand’s deputy prime minister and acting justice minister, has asserted that Thaksin will face imprisonment upon his arrival in the country, according to The Bangkok Post.
Elaborate preparations have reportedly been made by officials to ensure a smooth transition for Thaksin’s reentry. Once back in Thailand, Thaksin will be treated like any ordinary suspect and subjected to standard legal procedures.
A Journey Towards Justice
Thaksin’s path towards resolution entails a series of legal steps. The Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Political Office Holders is poised to issue an imprisonment warrant against him.
Subsequently, Thaksin will be escorted to Klong Prem Central Prison by Corrections Department officials. While he has the option to seek a royal pardon, there is also the possibility of his family members pursuing it on his behalf.
In the event that his initial pardon application is rejected, Thaksin would face a minimum two-year prison sentence before being eligible to resubmit his request.
A Flight from Exile
Reports from Thai media outlet Khaosod suggest that Thaksin is journeying to Singapore from Dubai via a private jet on August 19.
Accompanying him on this flight is his sister, Yingluck, who is herself a fugitive and a former Thai prime minister.
The account further notes that Thaksin’s son, Panthongtae, will join them in Singapore before continuing the journey back to Thailand.
A Reflection on Thaksin’s Legacy
Thaksin Shinawatra’s political journey has been marked by both accomplishment and controversy. Rising to the position of prime minister in 2001, his tenure was not without its challenges.
In 2006, he was ousted from power in a military coup and subsequently sought refuge in exile to evade a corruption trial, which ultimately led to his conviction in absentia.
Throughout his years of absence, Thaksin has predominantly resided in London and Dubai, occasionally making appearances in Singapore.
Conclusion: A Turning Point for Thailand
As the date of Thaksin Shinawatra’s return to Thailand draws near, the nation stands on the brink of a significant juncture in its political landscape.
The convergence of his homecoming with the crucial parliamentary decision showcases the complex interplay between the personal and political realms.