While the former prime minister is 'no longer a political draw', observers suggest he will continue to operate in the background as Pheu Thai attempts to stage a resurgence
Yet, following eight months of imprisonment, a coup that toppled his administration, numerous legal battles, risks to his family, wealth – and even his survival – those who have been part of the Shinawatra movement since Thaksin secured his first electoral victory in 2001 are skeptical that he is headed for political retirement just yet.
"He deserves a break after enduring such a long struggle. I truly wish he would," said Non, a 69-year-old resident of Thaksin's hometown area of San Kamphaeng, roughly 30 minutes by car from Chiang Mai in northern Thailand.
"But I doubt he can truly step away from politics," he added, asking to be identified only by his first name.