Thaksin seeks royal pardon

In an interviewed with the English-language daily Japan Times, "If I get a pardon, I know my supporters would be happy and we would not need to fight back anymore and prove anything.

Thaksin was convicted last year on abuse of power charges and sentenced in absentia to two years in prison.

The ex-premier claimed his innocence and said: "I cannot defend myself and get justice because I am now presumed guilty... and my political opponents back the committee investigating me.

Thaksin said he still wanted to return to Thai politics. "I have to go back, I have an obligation to my supporters and their morale," he told the Japan Times. "If there was an election today, I would certainly win."

Responding to reports that the Thai government has been trying to track his every move, Thaksin insisted that he is not actually in hiding — which leads one to inquire after his current home address.

"I am in and out. I never stay in one place for too long and as long as I am fit I can travel," he said. "You can look for me, I am everywhere!"