Politics Thaksin Faces Stark Reality in Thai Maximum Security Jail

[snoop1130]

File photo courtesy of Reuters

 

In a stark reversal of fortune, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, once among the nation's wealthiest and most influential figures, now faces harsh conditions in a Bangkok maximum security prison. Ordered by the Supreme Court to serve a year in jail after spending time in a hospital instead, Thaksin faces a life of stark deprivation in Klong Prem prison, a facility notorious for its austere conditions.

 

Thaksin's initial eight-year sentence for conflicts of interest and abuse of power during his tenure from 2001 to 2006 was reduced to one year by royal clemency. After returning from self-exile in August 2023, he was released on parole in February 2024, living a life of luxury in Bangkok before his recent arrest and transfer to Klong Prem.

 

The prison, home to roughly 6,500 inmates and some high-profile figures, presents a jarring contrast to Thaksin's previous lifestyle. Known for its tough environment, it held infamous international arms dealer Viktor Bout, and detainees have described the conditions as bleak and daunting.

 

According to activist Somyot Pruksakasemsuk, who spent over seven years in Thai prisons, including Klong Prem, life inside is harsh. Inmates cope with minimal comforts, sleeping on the floor with just three blankets and surviving on bland meals. The shared bathing facilities, a large tub of water, pose additional risks, often leading to violence.

 

The former corrections official, choosing anonymity due to the sensitivity of the case, confirmed these conditions. Thaksin, aged 76, is currently undergoing a five-day quarantine, isolated from visitors and communication, according to his lawyer, Winyat Chatmontree.

 

The prison's arrangement is strict, with 11 zones including sections for different sentence lengths and a special area for high-risk inmates. Thaksin is likely housed with elderly political prisoners, reducing the risk of contact with more dangerous offenders.

 

However, due to Thaksin's controversial past policies, tensions remain high. Awareness of potential threats from political adversaries or those affected by his previous government actions is vital for authorities. This awareness might lead to heightened security measures and potentially sheltering him with other influential prisoners, a practice known as establishing a "big man" status within the prison community.

 

Despite these severe conditions, there is a possibility for Thaksin to serve some of his time under house arrest. Yet, for a figure who once enjoyed immense power and luxury, the transition to prison life marks a significant downfall.

 

Reflecting on his own experience, Somyot eloquently summarised the emotional toll of incarceration. "You lost your freedom, you lost your comfort, you lost your life in terms of politics and reputation," he stated. Thaksin must similarly reconcile with these losses as he navigates this challenging chapter of his life.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-09-11

 

 

[Gottfrid]

No need to hear more about Thaksin now. He don´t have it worse than anybody else. He just have to suck it up after breaking the law. The guy should have much more than only 1 year.

[blaze master]

I pray nothing drastic happens like him dropping the soap.