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Thaksin’s parole stirs anger in Thailand at ‘double standards’ across political spectrum
- Critics are concerned that conflict could ensue if Thaksin remains ‘above the law’ amid mounting speculation of his return to politics
- Last year’s poll appears to show Thailand is moving away from old-style populism associated with Thaksin and his family
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The parole of ex-prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra is proving as divisive as his time in power, with critics on the left and right of Thai politics saying justice has not been served by the release of a man who has turned the wheels of the kingdom’s chaotic politics more than any other figure over the last 20 years.
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The 74-year-old’s circuitous journey from a political star and champion of the poor to a fugitive nemesis of the elite – and now an elderly returnee to Thailand allowed to live at home – was captured in an Instagram post by his daughter on Sunday.
In it, Thaksin sits thoughtfully by a swimming pool at his Bangkok villa, wearing a neck brace with his right arm in a sling.
“Outside feeling the air and sunshine after 180 days … also not back home for 17 years,” said Peatongtarn Shinawatra.
“Dad is just sitting outside like this. He’s been sitting like this for a while #finallyhome.”
He was freed on parole on Sunday after spending six months in a police hospital. But Thaksin still splits the country.
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