Thaksin flies out, Pheu Thai in freefall

Thaksin Shinawatra’s abrupt departure to Dubai has dealt a heavy blow to the Pheu Thai Party as it made a last-ditch effort, albeit unsuccessfully, to remain at the helm. Many see the latest developments as a final curtain for the embattled party.

- Chairith Yonpiam

The de facto leader of Pheu Thai was intercepted by immigration officials at Don Mueang airport on Thursday evening while attempting to leave the country, saying he was flying to Singapore. But eventually, his private jet changed its destination to Dubai, the Middle Eastern city known as his stronghold. Thaksin posted a message, saying he would return by Monday. Yet few, if any, believe him.

Looking back, Thaksin returned to Thailand in Aug 2023, brimming with confidence over Pheu Thai's future. There was widespread speculation that he had struck a deal with the old guard for Pheu Thai’s role in weakening the then Move Forward Party (MEP), a precursor to the progressive People’s Party (PP).

He received royal clemency, with his jail term reduced from eight to one year. Instead of serving his time in prison, he enjoyed a privilege, spending six months in the Police General Hospital, known as the “14th-floor saga”.

Whether Thaksin knows it or not, it's his missteps that led Pheu Thai into a political calamity. The party is losing power after just about two years in office. His daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who replaced Srettha Thavisin, fell from grace at the end of last week over her controversial phone conversation with Cambodian strongman Hun Sen as the border conflict intensified.

There is little hope for his own court case regarding the 14th-floor saga, as the judge is scheduled to hand down a ruling next Tuesday; this is believed to be the primary reason for his departure.