Bangkok, September 5th, 2025 – Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra left Thailand on a private jet last night, sparking speculation about his intentions as he faces a critical Supreme Court hearing on September 9th. In a detailed statement posted on X this morning, Thaksin clarified that his original plan was to travel to Singapore for a medical check-up with a doctor who treated him during his 15-year exile, but immigration delays and logistical issues led to a last-minute change to Dubai.
Thaksin explained that Thai immigration authorities at Don Mueang Airport delayed his departure for nearly two hours, despite his travel ban having been lifted after a prior legal victory, granting him the same travel rights as any Thai citizen. The delay caused his private jet, a Bombardier BD-700 registered as T7-GTS, to miss the 10 PM closing time of Singapore’s Seletar Airport, which serves private jets.
Unable to land in Singapore, Thaksin instructed the pilots to reroute to Dubai, where he said he could consult with his long-time orthopedic and pulmonary specialists. He also noted the opportunity to visit friends in Dubai, whom he hasn’t seen in over two years. While awaiting landing clearance from Dubai’s airport, the jet had to circle for some time before proceeding, he added.
The 76-year-old’s sudden departure comes amid heightened scrutiny following his daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s removal as prime minister last week and ahead of a court ruling that could impose a new prison sentence. Thaksin stated firmly his commitment to return to Thailand by September 8th to attend the court hearing in person.
The unexpected change in travel plans has fueled online debate, with many questioning whether Thaksin’s trip signals an attempt to avoid legal consequences, a pattern critics associate with his 2008 flight from Thailand. His legal team insists the trip is solely for medical and personal reasons, and he remains free to travel.
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
