Thaksin’s Journey: From Thai PM to Exile to Prisoner in Thailand. This marks a significant downturn for Thaksin, 76, whose daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, was recently ousted as prime minister and replaced by a rival. Thaksin's political party, Pheu Thai, has also been relegated to the opposition.- ASEAN NOW

 LThaksin's Journey: From Thai PM to Exile to Prisoner in Thailand

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Picture courtesy of The Business Times | AFP

Thaksin Shinawatra, former prime minister of Thailand, began a one-year prison sentence for past convictions of corruption and abuse of power. This marks a significant downturn for Thaksin, 76, whose daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, was recently ousted as prime minister and replaced by a rival. Thaksin's political party, Pheu Thai, has also been relegated to the opposition.

Thaksin, a contentious figure in Thai politics, has long challenged the royalist-military establishment. After being ousted in a coup, he spent years in exile before making a dramatic return to Thailand two years ago. His brief return to power was supported by former adversaries aiming to counter the progressive People's Party, though he was quickly sentenced to eight years in prison, received a royal pardon, and avoided serving time—until now.

Experts note that despite his setbacks, Thaksin may still hold value for the royalists wary of the progressive movement. Paul Chambers from Singapore's ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute suggests that Thaksin remains a strategic asset. After his sentencing, Thaksin pledged to devote his life to the monarchy and Thailand, signaling a shift in his public stance.

Thaksin's Pheu Thai Party, once a dominant force, has seen declining support, exacerbated by Paetongtarn's removal and nationalist uproar over a conversation with Cambodia's Hun Sen. Pheu Thai's loss of grassroots support is highlighted by defections to the now-ruling royalist party, Bhumjaithai. Critics argue Thaksin's focus on family leadership and failure to adapt to Thailand's changing political landscape have eroded his party's influence.

As Thailand prepares for elections next year, Thaksin's future role remains uncertain. The political climate is shifting, with parties like Bhumjaithai gaining ground and newer movements challenging traditional powers. Anutin Charnvirakul of Bhumjaithai is now the sitting prime minister.

Key Takeaways

• Thaksin starts serving his prison sentence amid changing Thai politics.
• His party's influence wanes as rivals gain power and support.
• Future elections may determine Thaksin's enduring political relevance.