The former Manchester City owner is one of the most divisive figures in Thai history, but has a strong track record of winning elections and still has supporters, some of whom went to the airport to meet him. He will be taken to prison - but it's unclear for how long.
The presumption is that he's come back because he's done a deal with his Royalist adversaries and ex-military rivals to keep him out of prison.
He has 10 years of outstanding criminal cases against him which he has always alleged were politically motivated.Police said he would be taken directly to the Supreme Court for a hearing, then transferred to a prison. In a statement, the court said he will serve eight years, but how long he'll actually stay inside is unclear.'He's a hero to the Thai people'She said:"We've felt attached to him for more than 20 years.While Pom, 22, said:"I think this means hope. I hope he will be pardoned and can live with his family."Thaksin Shinawatra, foreground, with, from left, his son Phantongtae, his daughters Pinthongta and Paetongtarn.
Her friend, Peter, said:"He's a hero to the Thai people. He provided policies for all - rich or poor."Mr Shinawatra presided over his wedding and he tells me seventeen years abroad"is long enough to spend outside of your home". He added:"The legal system will have to proceed. But what's most important is that he's back on Thai soil."
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