31-12-2023 (BANGKOK) The Department of Corrections has granted permission for the House Committee on Police Affairs to conduct a visit to the 14th floor of the Police General Hospital, where the former Prime Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, is currently residing. Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong confirmed this announcement, specifying that the visit is scheduled for January 12.
Minister Tawee emphasized that all visitors must adhere to the established visiting rules during their inspection. He revealed that the Ombudsman, in addition to officials from various agencies, has already undertaken an inspection of the 14th floor.
Deputy Prime Minister Somsak Thepsutin had previously cautioned members of the House Committee against conducting an unauthorized inspection of the hospital’s 14th floor, emphasizing the need for permission from the Shinawatra family. He warned of potential legal consequences, highlighting the risk of trespassing charges.
The House panel, motivated by concerns of double standards in the case, had expressed its intention to carry out the inspection regardless of an official invitation.
In response to inquiries about Thaksin Shinawatra’s health, Pol Col Tawee stated that he has not received any updates from the Department of Corrections. “I’ve never visited Thaksin, but I’ve met with doctors overseeing his care, and they have confirmed Thaksin is indeed unwell,” remarked Pol Col Tawee.
Despite reaching the maximum allowed 120 days of inpatient care on December 22, Thaksin Shinawatra has been permitted to continue staying at the Police General Hospital by the Department of Corrections.
The decision to inspect follows criticism of a regulation issued by the Department of Corrections on December 6, which allows for the detention of certain inmates outside of prison. Critics argue that this regulation appears tailored to accommodate the former prime minister.
Thaksin Shinawatra, 74, returned to Thailand on August 22 after spending 15 years in self-imposed exile. Upon his return, he was promptly sentenced to eight years in prison for his involvement in three corruption cases. However, this sentence was later commuted to one year through a royal pardon. On the night of his sentencing, he was relocated from Bangkok Remand Prison to the Police General Hospital due to health reasons and has since remained under medical care at the facility.
