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60
Turns out the Trump-maga and Mao-cultural revolution connection is actually a real thing
Then don't read it, don't post on it, and ignore. You're not fooling me. -
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Health Six Dead as Covid Cases Surge in Thailand
But don't be too cutesie about it - 2 good friends have it - it's very unpleasant and has lasted coming up for a week and still not gone - healthy people in their 40's. -
60
Turns out the Trump-maga and Mao-cultural revolution connection is actually a real thing
Just bored with it. It's been non-stop for10 years. -
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Politics Former PM Thaksin Shinawatra's Hospital Stay Sparks Political Tension in Thailand
File photo for reference only Mounting pressure is on the Thai government over the prolonged stay of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in the Police General Hospital (PGH), with increasing calls for transparency from state officials and political figures. This intensifying controversy revolves around perceived preferential treatment and ethical concerns regarding his extended hospitalisation. Thaksin's transfer to PGH took place immediately following his return to Thailand in August 2023, when he was sentenced to eight years' imprisonment. This sentence, initially comprising three years from two separate cases plus an additional five years from a third, was subsequently reduced to one year through royal clemency. However, despite this reduction, there has been widespread scepticism about whether he has served any meaningful jail time due to his swift hospitalisation cited as necessary for undisclosed serious health issues. The Medical Council of Thailand (MCT) has launched an ethics investigation into the conduct of the medical professionals involved in Thaksin's transfer from prison and his extended hospital stay. This inquiry aims to determine if ethical standards have been breached in a way favouring Thaksin, a pivotal political figure in Thailand. Parallelly, the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions is reviewing the case, with a crucial hearing scheduled for 13 June. The situation has sparked public outcry led by the People's Network for Thailand Reform, who, alongside allied groups, are planning a demonstration outside Government House. They are demanding that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin's daughter and leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, address these concerns and take accountability for what is perceived as preferential treatment. Tension is further heightened by plans to petition Malaysian leader Anwar Ibrahim, the current chair of Asean, urging him to reconsider Thaksin's appointment as an advisor to the organisation. Critics argue that this role could unfairly shield him from legal consequences due to his influence and connections within the political arena. In tandem with these efforts, the groups intend to submit a request to Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, a significant figure in the Pheu Thai Party, urging him to refrain from interfering in any disciplinary actions the MCT may decide against the doctors involved. The public health minister, who chairs the council's special committee, is seen as pivotal to ensuring impartial disciplinary measures. Adding to the escalating scrutiny, political activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana has filed a petition with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to investigate Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong. As the official overseeing the Department of Corrections, Tawee's decisions in allowing Thaksin's detention in hospital rather than prison are under question, potentially constituting an abuse of power or breach of ethical standards. Moreover, Wirangrong Dabbaransi, leader of the Network of Universities for Reform, has urged the Office of the Ombudsman to re-evaluate earlier findings that the Department of Corrections and PGH fulfilled their duties appropriately. This call for a review is based on new insights from the MCT's findings, challenging the decision-making processes that permitted Thaksin’s extended hospitalisation. These developments underscore deep-rooted concerns about fairness in Thailand's justice system, highlighting possible disparities that favour influential figures. The controversy fuels an ongoing narrative of justice inequities, intensifying demands for a robust and unbiased review of Thaksin's case, amid public vigilance over the proceedings and their broader implications. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-13 -
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