Phuket Island became the second destination for former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra following his release on parole from three corruption charges in February.
Thaksin was spotted leisurely strolling along the bustling Bangla walking street in Patong Beach on a Monday night, accompanied by Chart Pattana Kla Party chief Suwat Liptapanlop. Images of his visit circulated on two prominent local Facebook pages: Phuket Info Center and Monsoongarbage Thailand.
One photograph captures Thaksin exchanging greetings with a local resident. Reports on the Facebook pages suggested that Thaksin’s visit aimed to promote tourism in Phuket, renowned internationally as a paradise island.
Despite claims of severe illness leading to his parole, Thaksin’s appearances in Phuket and other venues post-release raised doubts about his health status. His Bangkok residence, Chan Song La, hosted numerous prominent figures, including current Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen.
Thaksin also made two visits to his hometown province of Chiang Mai, once a stronghold of his party, Pheu Thai, which is now led by his youngest daughter, Paetongtarn. The party suffered a decline in popularity in Chiang Mai, losing ground to the Move Forward party in the previous general election. His visit to the province is speculated to be an effort to reclaim support.
Similarly, his presence in Phuket is viewed as a strategic move by Pheu Thai to bolster its appeal among voters.
Photo by Phuket Info Center FB
