Former PM Thaksin to return to Thailand next month after 15 years in exile

Former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra is expected to return to the kingdom in just over two weeks, after spending more than 15 years abroad in self-exile. His daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, announced this on social media in commemoration of his birthday. The 74-year-old -- who is said to be currently in Hong Kong -- was ousted by a military coup in 2006. Mr Thaksin remains a relevant figure in Thailand. His return "coincides" with the current political vacuum: Pheu Thai, the latest incarnation of his old party, is currently attempting to form a new government.