Thaksin Shinawatra's Highly Anticipated Return to a Divided Thailand

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has returned to Thailand after 15 years of self-exile, amidst a politically divided landscape. Thaksin, a controversial figure known for his populist policies, was ousted in a military coup in 2006 and fled the country in 2008 following a corruption conviction. His return coincides with an expected parliamentary vote for a new prime minister, as the country's political elites seek to break a deadlock after recent elections. Thaksin's comeback adds uncertainty to an already febrile political atmosphere, with progressive parties and their young support base potentially mobilizing in opposition to a coalition deal struck with military-backed rivals.