The Thai military launched a coup against Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra tonight, circling his offices with tanks, seizing control of television stations and declaring a provisional authority loyal to the king.

Thaksin Shinawatra may return as Thailand’s full-time prime minister, ending a break from politics he took last month amid street protests, a government spokesman said today.

Opponents of outgoing Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra gathered today to celebrate their victory in forcing the Thai leader to step down, and to make plans for purging the next government of his legacy of alleged corruption and undemocratic rule.

Outgoing Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra today said he had handed over his responsibilities to a deputy, Chitchai Wannasathit, following months of protests by critics who accused Thaksin of corruption and abuse of power.