Yingluck's Exile Not Ending with Boonsong's Release, PM Paetongtarn Asserts

[webfact]

Yingluck Shinawatra. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath

 

In a recent turn of events, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra firmly quelled rumours suggesting the release of Boonsong Teriyabhirom could signal an imminent return of Yingluck Shinawatra.

 

This announcement follows the parole of Boonsong, a former commerce minister caught in the storm of the rice subsidy scandal, who was released from prison under strictly monitored conditions.

 

Boonsong, incarcerated in 2017 for his role in the notorious rice scheme, was initially sentenced to 48 years, later commuted to a decade. As of yesterday, the former official steps into freedom with an electronic ankle bracelet to ensure compliance during his three years and five months of parole.

 

Although significant, this development, according to Paetongtarn, bears no impact on the legal circumstances surrounding her aunt, Yingluck.

 

Yingluck Shinawatra, another high-profile figure entangled in the same corruption scandal, was sentenced to five years for negligence. However, rather than face imprisonment, Yingluck made a clandestine exit in 2017 via Cambodia and has since lived a life of self-imposed exile abroad.

This high-profile escape unfolded against a backdrop of political turmoil, leaving questions lingering about her prospects of return.

 

Speaking to journalists, Prime Minister Paetongtarn confirmed having discussed these matters with Yingluck herself. However, specifics of their dialogue remain shrouded in mystery. Despite public speculation, no definitive steps have been outlined concerning a return that would secure Yingluck's freedom from serving her sentence upon a potential homecoming.

 

The family narrative is steeped in complex legal and political ties, exemplified by Thaksin Shinawatra’s prior maneuvers. Thaksin, who holds a dominant, albeit unofficial, influence within Pheu Thai, previously navigated his legal hurdles through meticulous agreements.

 

Most notably, he staged a temporary "medical reprieve" at Police Hospital to delay serving a full sentence, reflecting the intricate strategies often employed.

 

While Thaksin has hinted that Yingluck's return might occur around the Songkran festival in April, no concrete plans have been confirmed. This speculative timeline fuels interest but remains speculative at best, given the legal ramifications awaiting her in Thailand.

 

As the scene unfolds, Boonsong's release serves as a focal point, but it provides no direct path for Yingluck's return. Instead, it underscores the fluid political landscape, leaving observers to ponder the future moves of one of Thailand's most prominent political dynasties, reported Thai Newsroom.

 

-- 2024-12-04

 

 

[lordgrinz]

6 years in prison on a 48 year sentence, what the heck kind of justice system is in play here?!

[TheFishman1]

She’ll be back before you know the justice system here is a reality if you have a lot of money you get treated a lot differently which brings the question hey where is the Red Bull kid whatever happened with that case L O L TIT

[klauskunkel]

7 hours ago, webfact said:

specifics of their dialogue remain shrouded in mystery

Mysterious Thailand...

[Nick Carter icp]

Yinn  Luck Shinawatra seems to be having a great time in London 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[pjmorton]

In most countries, giving big subsidies to farmers in return for political support would be considered wasteful and counterproductive, but not criminal. U.S. does the same thing for corn.

[hotchilli]

3 hours ago, lordgrinz said:

6 years in prison on a 48 year sentence, what the heck kind of justice system is in play here?!

A very tiered one

[Eric Loh]

5 hours ago, lordgrinz said:

6 years in prison on a 48 year sentence, what the heck kind of justice system is in play here?!

His 48 years term was reduced to 10 years before being paroled by DoC committee of judges etc. 

[SunnyinBangrak]

This seems to confirm that Yingluck is indeed returning. Anything a Thai politician states is a lie. Reading these denials again, I think she is probably on the plane now.