Ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra marked his 67th birthday yesterday by expressing his wish to see democracy restored to Thailand soon.
He was addressing supporters via a Facebook live broadcast yesterday afternoon while celebrating his birthday -- reportedly in Britain.
"I wish all of you good health, physically and mentally, and so that you are ready to fight and emerge victorious over these political irregularities. We are confident democracy will be restored to Thailand soon," said Thaksin as he thanked supporters for their birthday greetings.
He also spoke about a birthday surprise from his youngest sister, former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra -- a video featuring Ms Yingluck singing for Thaksin.
"I love you very dearly, too, Sister. And thank you very much for this. Everything is destiny. Sometimes we just cannot make it happen the way we want, but we have to try our best," said Thaksin after watching the video clip of Ms Yingluck's video called "Your Song".
In the song, Ms Yingluck expressed her love and respect for her brother and wished him a long, healthy and happy life.
As well as singing in the video, Ms Yingluck also said how much she wanted to attend Thaksin's birthday party but couldn't because she was prohibited from travelling overseas.
Meanwhile, when asked if he wanted to give Thaksin a birthday message, Deputy Prime Minister Gen Prawit Wongsuwon said he had never met the ex-premier, so why would he want to say anything to him.
"I don't even know if would accept it [a birthday message]," said Gen Prawit.
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha also responded to media questions regarding Thaksin's birthday celebrations.
"[Whoever wants to go] may go. There are flights going there [Britain]. I'm not keeping a watch on anyone. It's their business," he said.