Supporters danced, beat drums and sang as deposed Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra returned on Thursday-28 Feb. from 17 month in exile to face corruption charge, vowing to restore his reputation following his ouster in a group.
The 58 year old billionaire politician was quickly detained after his arrival at Bangkok’s Swarnabhumi airport abroad a Thai airways flight from Hong Kong. Thai authorities took him to court where he was ordered to post $267,000 in bail pending a hearing on March 12.
Thaksin was deposed in September 2006 coup and had lived in London. He had expected to face arrest after arriving on charge of graft and abuse of power during his 2001-2006 times in office. His return was seen as a test of the countries political stability, with critics warning that the populist billionaire’s homecoming could plunge the country into renewed crises.
Thaksin had tears in his eyes as he emerged to face supporters. He knelt and touches the ground with his forehead, hands clasped together in the Thai greeting.
After posting bail, Thaksin proceeded to the attorney general’s office where he paid $33,530 in bail on another set of charges.
A hearing on weather Thaksin would be indicated was set for April 3. Thaksin has said he is innocent of the charges, alleging that they were politically motivated.
Leave Your Comments