25-5-2024 (BANGKOK) In a remarkable display of unwavering loyalty, paroled former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was greeted by a jubilant crowd of supporters upon his long-awaited return to Nakhon Ratchasima, affectionately known as Korat, on Saturday. It was the first time in 17 years that the influential political figure had set foot in the most populous province of Thailand’s Northeast region.
The private jet carrying Thaksin and his entourage, including daughter and Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra, touched down at Nakhon Ratchasima Airport in Chalerm Phrakiat district at 11:40 am. The arrival was marked by a sea of red-shirt supporters, who had gathered in eager anticipation, their chants of “We love Thaksin” echoing through the terminal.
As Thaksin emerged from the aircraft, he was greeted with a ceremonial embrace, as supporters wrapped traditional Thai loincloths around his waist and reached out to embrace and capture moments with the former leader. The air was thick with emotion, as tears of joy streamed down the faces of some supporters, overwhelmed by the sight of their long-absent political icon.
The chants of adulation continued unabated, with supporters declaring, “Welcome, our prime minister, you are in our hearts forever, we always love and have faith in you,” and “Isan people welcome you.” It was a homecoming befitting a beloved son of the region.
Thaksin’s visit to Korat was not merely a political tour but a personal pilgrimage of remembrance. His primary purpose was to attend the cremation of Wichai Changlek, his loyal long-time driver, who had passed away the previous year at the age of 73.
At Wat Sangkha Chinaram, where Wichai’s final rites were held, Thaksin paid a heartfelt tribute to the man who had been more than just a chauffeur. “He was not just my driver but the person who spent the most time with me in a small space,” Thaksin reminisced, acknowledging the bond forged over decades of shared journeys.
Despite the conditions of his parole, which restrict his involvement in “political” activities, Thaksin’s homecoming was undeniably tinged with political undertones. Notable figures, including Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang, Digital Economy and Society Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong, and Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, were among those who graced the occasion, underscoring Thaksin’s enduring influence on the nation’s political landscape.
