Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has finally returned to Thailand after 15 years abroad in self-imposed exile.
After repeated claims he would fly back this year, the 74-year-old, who was ousted by the military in 2006 and convicted in absentia two years later for abusing power and malfeasance, made good on his word.
He flew via private plane from Singapore to Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport after 9am this morning. He paid his respects to a portrait of the king and queen, greeted by his family members, and was promptly arrested by authorities after he landed before being taken to the Supreme Court.
“Welcome back to Thailand daddy,” Thaksin’s daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra posted on Instagram with photos of the Shinawatra family. “Currently, my father has arrived in Thailand safely and is undergoing the legal process. Thank you to everyone who came to welcome my father and for all the encouragement that everyone has sent.”
Thaksin’s sister, Yingluck Shinawatra, also posted photos of her sending off her brother.
“I wish that the day and time for you to be together with your family will come soon,” she wrote. “Good luck, dear sibling. I love you always, my wonderful older brother.”
Thaksin was taken to Bangkok Remand Prison. According to a statement released by the Supreme Court, he will serve a total of eight years in jail on charges of corruption and abuse of power.
Thaksin’s return comes on the same day as Parliament votes for the next Prime Minister in a joint meeting between the House and the Senate. The Pheu Thai Party, which Thaksin helped found, nominated property tycoon Srettha Thavisin as its sole candidate.
Thaksin has denied any connection with his return and the vote.
After the progressive Move Forward Party, which won the election, was unable to form a government due to military-appointed senators in the upper house, Pheu Thai announced a coalition with the former coupmakers’ parties.
Thaksin rose to power in 2001 for his pro-rural populist policies before the military seized power in a coup that saw him leave the country and live in exile.
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