
"Thaksin's Comeback Solidifies Thai Political Deal"
Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who had been in exile for 15 years, returned to Thailand and was immediately taken to a civilian hospital due to a heart condition. His return is part of a grand political bargain aimed at ending the power struggle between his populist Pheu Thai party and conservative groups aligned with the military and monarchy. The new government, formed by a coalition that includes former adversaries of Thaksin, does not include the party that won the most seats in the election, leading to disappointment among voters. The government is expected to prioritize the economy, but holding the coalition together may prove challenging. The progressive Move Forward party, which gained significant support in the election, will serve as the opposition and aims to highlight the shortcomings of the new government.