Breaking a long silence on Friday, Thaksin expressed frustration at being blamed for, or linked to, deadly attacks, including the 2015 Erawan Shrine bombing and attacks in the deep South.

His family, he said, was also being targeted, referring to the ongoing attempt to collect tax on Shin Corp shares that were sold more than a decade ago. Thaksin, living in exile, insisted on his loyalty to the monarchy, and said coups were dangerous for the country.

NCPO spokesman Colonel Piyapong Klinpan said Thaksin’s post may have stemmed from feelings of homesickness. If the former prime minister wished to see the country progress, he should stop hurting it and distorting facts. Piyapong said Thaksin should instead return and go through due legal processes.