Well, actually the first 4 years he was there as a junta leader...
The next 4 years as a fake prime minister as the election was rigged.
And now, he is planning another coup
When one parent travels with children, it is wise to have a letter from the other parent that it is OK. Most airlines have standard forms for this.
With no Thai passports for the children and just a visa for the mother is enough to raise red flags.