Bangkok: The Supreme Court has ordered a one-year prison sentence for former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in the 14th-degree case, mandating his immediate return to prison. The court ruled that his previous sentence was not in accordance with the law. Paethongtarn Shinawatra expressed her family’s gratitude for the royal pardon and sentence reduction, thanking everyone for their support.
According to Thai News Agency, Thaksin Shinawatra, along with Bangkok Remand Prison Commander Manop Chomchuen, attended the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions hearing. The court examined whether Thaksin had served his sentence as ordered. Thaksin, accompanied by former Prime Ministers Paethongtarn and Pinthongtha Shinawatra Kunakornwong, appeared in a black suit and yellow tie, greeting the media and supporters.
The court determined that Thaksin’s imprisonment was unlawful, noting he was aware of the facts and not suffering from a critical illness that required hospitalization. Instead, his condition could be managed as an outpatient. The court found that Thaksin was involved in his medical treatment decisions, opting against urgent surgeries and extending his stay at the Police General Hospital. This extended stay prevented his return to the Bangkok Remand Prison and allowed him to benefit from time deductions unlawfully.
As the execution of Thaksin’s sentence was deemed unlawful, the suspension of his sentence held no legal effect, and his time at the Police Hospital could not be deducted from his detention days. Consequently, he must serve an additional year in prison.
Following the court’s decision, Ms. Paethongtarn expressed her family’s gratitude for the royal pardon and reduced sentence. She highlighted her father’s role as a spiritual leader in politics and her commitment to contributing to the well-being of citizens through his achievements.
Ms. Paethongtarn shared her pride in her father’s accomplishments and expressed a positive outlook despite the historic nature of the imprisonment. She reaffirmed the Pheu Thai Party’s dedication to serving as an opposition force, scrutinizing the government for the people’s benefit.
Red Shirt protesters gathered to support Thaksin were dispersed after the court order. Mr. Ko Kaew Phikunthong addressed the crowd outside the Supreme Court, praising Thaksin’s resolute stance and urging supporters to remain calm.