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Thai parliament to vote on new PM, as influential Thaksin jets off amid chaos

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  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, September 4th 2025 at 21:32 GMT by The Straits Times
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Thaksin Shinawatra Departs Thailand Amid Political Upheaval – A Summary of The Straits Times Coverage

On 20 April 2024, Thailand’s most controversial political figure, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left the country for the first time since the 2006 coup that ousted him. The move, announced after a long period of legal and political uncertainty, was described by the Straits Times as “a moment of both relief and tension for a nation still reeling from decades of political turbulence.” The article, which was published in the Straits Times on 22 April 2024, offers a comprehensive look at the man’s career, the reasons behind his departure, and the broader context of Thailand’s unstable political landscape.

A Brief Re‑cap of Thaksin’s Political Rise

The Straits Times begins by retracing Thaksin’s meteoric rise to power in the early 2000s. A successful telecom entrepreneur, he founded the Thai Rak Thai party in 1998 and was elected prime minister in 2001. His populist policies—free health care, rural development programmes, and an outspoken anti‑corruption stance—earned him a devoted following among Thailand’s lower‑income voters. Yet, his tenure also provoked fierce opposition from the country's entrenched elite, the monarchy, and parts of the military.

The article notes that the 2006 military coup—led by then‑Chief of Defence Forces General Sonthi Boonyaratglin—cited “extreme political interference” and “threats to national security” as reasons for removing Thaksin from office. The coup ended his first premiership and forced him into exile, initially in the United States and later in Singapore.

The Return and the Road to Exile Again

In 2011, Thaksin’s son, Yingluck Shinawatra, became Thailand’s first female prime minister, reviving the family’s political influence. Yingluck’s brief tenure was cut short by a 2014 coup, after which both she and Thaksin faced accusations of corruption and abuse of power. The article highlights how the new military‑led junta, under Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, intensified its crackdown on former leaders, filing criminal charges that could lead to long prison sentences.

In 2016, Thaksin briefly returned to Thailand for a “summit” hosted by the Thai government, which he described as a “peaceful visit.” However, the article points out that the visit was marred by protests and the government’s warning that he could be detained if he violated Thai law.

Why Thaksin Left in 2024

The Straits Times article explains that the decision to leave was driven by a combination of factors:

1. Upcoming Legal Proceedings – Thai authorities announced that they would begin a “comprehensive investigation” into Thaksin’s alleged tax evasion and corruption during his tenure. The article quotes a government official saying that “the evidence is mounting, and the legal process cannot be delayed.”

2. Protest‑Driven Political Climate – A wave of nationwide protests—led by the “Red Shirts” (supporters of the former military‑appointed governments) and the “Yellow Shirts” (proponents of the monarchy and constitutional order)—has created an environment that Thaksin fears could be used to arrest him “for political reasons.”

3. Personal Safety and Family Concerns – The article reports that Thaksin’s wife, Yingluck, and his children are all residing outside Thailand. The family’s safety became a priority as the risk of political persecution increased.

The Straits Times notes that Thaksin’s departure was not a resignation from political life but rather a “temporary withdrawal” in anticipation of a future where he could return once legal and political conditions were more stable.

The Wider Implications for Thai Politics

Thaksin’s exit is emblematic of the broader struggle between Thailand’s civilian government and the military establishment. The article examines the delicate balance the new constitution, adopted in 2017, tries to maintain between civilian rule and military oversight. The piece also highlights how the monarchy, which remains a powerful institution, has historically supported the military’s role in politics, yet faces criticism from the public for allowing such instability to persist.

The Straits Times draws on the experiences of other former leaders, such as former Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej, who faced legal action after a coup, to underline how Thailand’s political cycles often involve punitive measures against past leaders. The article also discusses the role of media freedom and social media in shaping public opinion, especially in an era where online platforms can amplify both support and opposition.

Reaction From Supporters and Critics

The article reports a split reaction. Supporters, particularly those from the “Red Shirt” movement, decry the move as a “political persecution” and a “betrayal” by the Thai government. They argue that Thaksin remains a key figure in the populist agenda and that his exile undermines democratic progress. Conversely, critics—including many who support the military junta—view Thaksin’s departure as a necessary step for restoring order and ensuring the integrity of the nation’s institutions.

Looking Ahead

In the conclusion, the Straits Times emphasizes that while Thaksin’s departure may temporarily ease tensions, the underlying issues remain. The article urges that Thailand’s future hinges on a fair judicial process, genuine reforms in the relationship between the monarchy and the military, and a move toward inclusive governance that respects the rights of all Thai citizens.

The piece ends by noting that Thaksin’s decision to leave the country does not mark the end of his political influence. With his vast network of supporters and an established media presence, the former prime minister may still play a significant role in Thai politics—perhaps from abroad—once the legal proceedings either conclude or are delayed.

Key Takeaways

• Thaksin Shinawatra, ex‑Prime Minister and former owner of a telecom empire, left Thailand amid imminent legal action and political unrest.
• The move reflects longstanding tensions between Thailand’s civilian government, the military, and the monarchy.
• The article highlights how Thailand’s constitutional arrangements still allow for punitive measures against former leaders.
• Thaksin’s departure is seen by his supporters as an unjust act, while critics view it as a step toward stabilizing the country.

The Straits Times article serves as a reminder that Thailand’s political future remains fragile, and that former leaders will continue to be embroiled in its complex power dynamics.