Thaksin Faces Possible Resentencing Over Hospital Stay
File photo courtesy of Thailand Court
Thailand's Supreme Court has slated a pivotal hearing in July to delve into the legitimacy of ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's extended hospital sojourn, a move that might see him facing the clink once more.
Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363589-thaksin-faces-possible-resentencing-over-hospital-stay/
File photo courtesy of Thailand Court
Thailand's Supreme Court has slated a pivotal hearing in July to delve into the legitimacy of ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's extended hospital sojourn, a move that might see him facing the clink once more.
The drama unfurled as the country's medical council reaffirmed its decision to penalise three doctors responsible for allowing the 75-year-old mogul to dodge detention, enforcing the court's call for their resolution in the upcoming session.
Though devoid of an official state mantle, Thaksin's sway is undeniable, particularly as the silent force behind the Pheu Thai Party, steered by his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
His legal quagmires, coupled with a separate charge over royal defamation, add turbulence to an already wobbling government, entangled with economic doldrums and a Cambodian border imbroglio.
Skyrocketing controversy surrounds Thaksin, once jailed post-return from self-imposed exile in 2023 to cap off an eight-year term for power abuse and conflict of interest, only for those years behind bars to dwindle to one by royal grace.
A nocturnal prison chest pain spree led to his VIP police hospital stay, sparking public outcry across Thailand, with sceptics questioning his true health status.
As the courtroom prepares for a showdown, it summons 20 witnesses, including an ex-corrections bigwig and physicians privy to Thaksin's care, complete with his medical records. Thaksin retains the right to present his own evidence, though he won't need to show up in court physically.
The judicial team has pencilled in six days in July, kicking off on the 4th and wrapping on the 30th, to hear the saga of Thaksin's medical mysteries.
Defending his client, Attorney Winyat Chartmontri stood firm outside the courthouse, asserting, "The truth is he was sick, and he has completely served his sentence," and contended the crux was over the severity rather than the existence of his maladies, addressing the tribunal's verdict.
As the drama unfolds, the case remains a keystone for not just Thaksin’s future but for Thailand's political theatre.
Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-06-14
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