Thaksin’s back

Thailand’s ousted premier, Thaksin Shinawatra, returned home on Wednesday 27th February ending 17 months of exile abroad.

After falling to his knees and kissing Thai ground outside Suvarnabhumi Airport, Mr Thaksin briefly greeted well-wishers carrying banners and signs before heading off to the Supreme Court in Bangkok.

On arrival at the airport with his son Panthongtae, he was greeted by his wife, Khunying Potjaman, his youngest daughter and sister Yingluck.

Deputy Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat, Interior Minister Chalerm Yubamrung, and Transport Minister Santi Prompat were also at the airport to welcome the ex-premier.

On exiting the building a roar went up and Mr Thaksin gave a traditional wai greeting. He said he just wanted to be an ‘ordinary citizen.’

Mr Thaksin spent about an hour at the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions to hear charges brought against him over the 770-million-baht Ratchadaphisek land deal.

He was subsequently bailed and then made his way to the Peninsula Bangkok hotel. His house in Bangkok is currently undergoing renovation.