23-2-2024 (BANGKOK) Thailand’s Justice Minister, Pol Col Tawee Sodsong, responded to inquiries regarding the parole granted to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, emphasizing that the decision adhered to legal criteria. The controversy emerged during a parliamentary meeting where Move Forward Party (MFP) MP, Nattacha Boonchaiinsawat, questioned the basis for Thaksin’s parole.
Mr Nattacha referred to the Corrections Act and Department of Corrections (DoC) regulations, pointing out that eligible inmates for parole must either be seriously ill or older than 70, unable to care for themselves adequately. The criteria include dependence on others for daily activities such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility, coupled with an inability to control bowel movements.
The MP sought clarity on how Thaksin met these conditions and requested information on the two doctors who confirmed Thaksin’s serious illness and subsequent recovery within 180 days.
In response, Col Pol Tawee explained that the National Health Act mandates the confidentiality of health-related data, preventing its disclosure without consent. He asserted that the doctors who assessed Thaksin’s condition were from the Police General Hospital, and the parole decision adhered to relevant laws, regulations, and medical criteria.
The opposition Democrat Party, however, declared that it would not raise the issue during the next censure debate, deeming it unrelated to the government’s performance. Deputy leader Chaichana Detdecho highlighted the importance of discussing economic issues such as the digital wallet scheme’s lack of progress.
While acknowledging Thaksin’s return and family reunion, Mr Chaichana expressed concerns about the justice system’s potential double standards. He called on the Department of Corrections director-general to provide a clear response.
The Democrat Party anticipates a censure debate before the House session concludes in April, focusing on economic matters like the unimplemented digital wallet scheme, policies for minimum daily wage and graduate salaries.
