Thailand's prominent former prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, departs the nation during periods of unrest

Thaksin Shinawatra, the former premier of Thailand and founder of the ruling Pheu Thai party, departed Bangkok's Don Mueang airport on a private jet at 7.17pm local time on September 4. His current destination is Dubai, according to online flight trackers.

The parliamentary vote for the next prime minister is scheduled for September 5, and the Pheu Thai party is facing a major challenge from a rival party. The party's spokesperson declined to comment on Thaksin Shinawatra's movements.

Thaksin spent 15 years in self-imposed exile following a 2008 court ruling that could potentially result in him serving prison time. However, he avoided prison time following his return to Thailand in 2023 by spending months in hospital on medical grounds.

The Supreme Court of Thailand will rule on a case involving Thaksin on September 9. It remains to be seen whether this ruling will change his legal status.

Thaksin's lawyer, Winyat Chatmontree, stated that he was not aware of Thaksin leaving the country, but Thaksin had mentioned plans to attend court next week. It is unclear whether Thaksin's departure is related to the upcoming Supreme Court ruling.

The Pheu Thai party is currently in turmoil, with some members questioning the party's direction and leadership. Thaksin's departure could further complicate the party's preparations for the September 5 vote.

Despite being prohibited from participating in politics, Thaksin continues to wield significant influence over the Pheu Thai party and Thai politics as a whole. His departure from the country adds an element of uncertainty to the political landscape in Thailand.

It is not uncommon for Thaksin to travel abroad for business and personal reasons, and it is not clear whether his departure is permanent or temporary. Regardless, the political implications of his departure are significant and will be closely watched by Thai politics watchers around the world.