18-10-2023 (BANGKOK) The National Police Chief, Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol, has requested that the Police General Hospital (PGH) submit a detailed report on the treatment being provided to the incarcerated former Prime Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra. This request comes after a photograph of Thaksin on a gurney, dressed in a patient’s gown and wearing a face mask while being prepared for computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, circulated on social media, sparking concerns over the special privileges and treatment he might be receiving.
Critics have alleged that the photo was intentionally circulated to convey the impression that Thaksin’s health remains seriously compromised, implying a need for continued hospitalization outside of the prison facility.
This development has occurred as the 90-day period for Thaksin’s out-of-prison hospitalization is set to expire this Friday. National Police Chief Pol Gen Torsak, who assumed his role recently, acknowledged his limited knowledge of the hospitalization matter, given the recent appointment.
The former Prime Minister is currently under the supervision of the Corrections Department, which has requested police assistance in providing security for him. Thaksin, aged 74, returned to Thailand on August 22 after 15 years of self-imposed exile and was sentenced to a total of eight years in three separate cases.
However, on the night of his arrival, he was transferred from Bangkok Remand Prison to PGH due to health reasons, where he has remained since. Subsequently, following a royal pardon request, his eight-year prison sentence was reduced to one year by His Majesty the King.
On Tuesday morning, political activist Srisuwan Janya submitted a petition to the Justice Ministry, urging an investigation into Thaksin’s treatment at PGH to determine if it breaches the Corrections Act.
Despite the photograph’s long-distance capture, critics have argued that it appeared staged, with Thaksin’s unmasked face clearly visible, suggesting the need for continued medical care. Mr. Srisuwan pointed out that, despite Thaksin’s multiple health conditions, including heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, and a herniated lumbar disc, his hospitalization at PGH might potentially contravene the Corrections Act.
