Thaksin thanks his supporters

Convicted ex-prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra made a five-minute phone-in on Sunday, thanking the Puea Thai party MPs for their continuous support.

The ousted premier called Puea Thai MP Wicharn Meenchainan's cell phone while he was meeting people at Bangkok's Bampen Nua temple in the morning.

During the phone-in, Thaksin said he appreciated Puea Thai MPs, especially Mr Wicharn, who continued to help him receive a fair trial.

On this occasion, the former prime minister also urged public members to support the opposition Puea Thai party.

He also expressed his concern over Thailand's economic crisis, and added that he will be travelling to different countries until he has the opportunity to return to his homeland.

Thaksin's phone-in was not prepared in advance, according to Mr Wicharn.