Thaksin Shinawatra, in exile in London, has given notice that he is still alive and very much kicking. Indeed, the deposed leader is playing a devilishly devious and clever, but potentially deadly, game for himself and for Thailand.
He may be out of power and out of Thailand, but Thaksin is hardly ever off the front pages of Thai newspapers, which carry reports of regular telephone conversations between him and the new rulers, with the police colonel turned billionaire businessman and politician asking when he can return home. His legal adviser said Thaksin is willing to cooperate with the government and the coup-makers to enhance reconciliation.
The deposed prime minister sent his wife back and she had a meeting with Prem Tinsulanonda, the powerful former general and former prime minister who is reported to have the ear of the king. Then Thaksin flew to China, saying mysteriously that he was going to meet old friends.