Mr. Thaksin called on critics to stop 'scrutinizing' every action.

Mr. Thaksin (right) had dinner with Prime Minister Srettha when he returned to his hometown in Chiang Mai on March 15.

The Bangkok Post on March 17 quoted former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra calling on critics to focus on more important issues than scrutinizing his every action in public.

His remarks come after criticism since his return to the country on August 22. He was pardoned on February 18 after six months in detention, during which time he was treated in hospital.

His return from detention and 15 years of exile has been met with mixed reactions, with Reuters reporting that his presence will change the political landscape in Thailand.

Detractors have also criticized his return to his hometown in Chiang Mai province, where the Pheu Thai party is strong.

"The play is not real. That's all," he said, referring to a series of stories based on himself.

Even in Chiang Mai, he said critics continued to question why he appeared healthy and not seriously ill as he had said when he was pardoned.

Former Prime Minister Thaksin said his improved mental state has overshadowed his physical weakness. He was also happy to have the opportunity to return to his homeland to reunite with his family after 17 years of exile, so his health has improved significantly.

However, he said he still has problems with his bones and some nerves in his neck and back, and continues to suffer from post-Covid-19 symptoms. He was previously treated in the intensive care unit for up to nine days when he contracted Covid-19.

"Now I'm back and if anyone doesn't like me, they can live their life and I'll live my life (without bothering each other)," he said.

In another development, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on March 16 rejected criticism that Thailand "has two prime ministers" after he met Mr. Thaksin in Chiang Mai.

Prime Minister Srettha said he discussed economic issues and wanted to hear advice from Mr Thaksin during the dinner, as he is a renowned economist. They also touched on the issue of economic management during Mr Thaksin's time in power, according to the current prime minister.

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