Will Thaksin return to Chiang Mai home?

In an exclusive statement, Thaksin Shinawatra’s youngest daughter debunked rumours, stating that while her father expressed a desire to visit Chiang Mai, there are no concrete travel arrangements yet. Thaksin’s youngest daughter, Paetongtarn, made known that nothing had been planned.

“As of now, no specific itinerary has been planned. He said he’d like to visit his ancestors’ graves. And his elder sister died while he was abroad, and he has not been able to pay tribute to her up until now.”

Thaksin’s sister, Yaowaluck Shinawatra, passed away in 2009 due to kidney disease and diabetes.

Responding to eager Pheu Thai MPs keen to meet Thaksin, Paetongtarn asserted that they would have to wait for Thaksin to decide when he is ready for it.

Amidst the buzz, Paetongtarn revealed that the Shinawatra family has already congratulated her sister, Yingluck Shinawatra, on her recent acquittal by the Supreme Court. However, any plans for Yingluck’s return to Thailand remain unconfirmed.

Thaksin, who fled Thailand in 2008, and Yingluck, who fled in 2017, both faced legal repercussions. Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong disclosed that Yingluck had not applied for royal clemency, an option available to her.

Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai expressed his support for Yingluck’s potential return, echoing the sentiments of Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, chairman of the Progressive Movement, who labelled both Thaksin and Yingluck as victims of unjust legal charges, reported Bangkok Post.

However, former red-shirt movement leader Jatuporn Promphan cast doubts on Yingluck’s return, suggesting it might be contingent upon political circumstances. He speculated that Yingluck might not come back while Srettha Thavisin holds the prime ministerial position.

In related news, Thaksin has shown no inclination to take up an advisory role within the government following his release on parole, as reported by the current Thai prime minister. PM Srettha, who met Thaksin at his Bangkok residence last week, suggested that the former prime minister might prefer spending time with his family and focusing on his health, having spent the last 17 to 18 years away from Thailand.