Maybe you were not in Thailand at the time, but I recall that he started the 30baht medical program (this has benefited millions over the decades) and actually had the economy in good shape with promoting small and medium size business. He also expanded infrastructure programs (getting the airport complete, new bridges, roads etc. ) People at the time were in good spirits. He is still very well liked in the North and Isaan.
As I have said many times I'm no fan of the guy. He is also the one that started the crack down on visa runs, overstays etc.
Of course he had the war on drugs which killed over 2500 people in 3 months and he's corrupt just like every other politician.
Is he good for Thailand? I dont know, I haven't seen any real progress in Thailand for more than a decade.
Things either stay the same, go sideways, or move backward; I see no forward movement.