Consistent with this image, Thais Love Thais at first drew strong support in Bangkok.

ECONOMIST: Thailand

He formed his own party, Thai Rak Thai, or 'Thais Love Thais'.

BBC: Thaksin Shinawatra

Thaksin transferred his shares in Shin to his relatives before he led his Thai Rak Thai Party--Thais Love Thais--to an election victory in 2001.

FORBES: Thai PM Thaksin's Son Fined Over Shin Sale