Thaksin Shinawatra Arrives in Udon Thani, Draws Enthusiastic Crowd of Red Shirt Supporters.

UDON THANI: Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra arrived at Udon Thani International Airport to support Sarawut Petchpanomporn, a candidate for the Udon Thani Provincial Administrative Organization president, in his campaign under the Pheu Thai Party on November 13-14. This marks Thaksin's first public speech appearance in 18 years. According to Thai News Agency, a large crowd of Red Shirt supporters gathered at the airport to welcome Thaksin, presenting him with flowers, garlands, sarongs, letters, and signs expressing their admiration and support, including messages like 'Love Pheu Thai Party,' 'Love Thaksin,' and 'My Favorite Prime Minister.' Photos of Thaksin were also prominently displayed by the supporters. The Pheu Thai Party was represented by MPs and party leaders from the Northeast and surrounding regions, who were present to greet Thaksin and will attend the speeches scheduled for the evening. Notable attendees include Mr. Chaiyan Phromma, former Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperative s, Mr. Kriang Kantinan, former Deputy Minister of Interior, and former MPs from Thaksin's era, including Mr. Khwanchai Sarakham, also known as Khwanchai Praipana, former president of the Udon Lovers Club. The evening schedule includes Thaksin and key Pheu Thai Party members taking the stage for a speech at Wat Srinakharam in Kumphawapi District at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner and hotel check-in. On the following day, November 14, they plan to give a speech at Srithanya Market in the afternoon, meet with local business leaders, merchants, and officials, and conclude with another speech at Thung Si Mueang in Mueang District, Udon Thani Province.