24-2-2024 (BANGKOK) Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced on Saturday that former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra was in good spirits and happy following his release from hospital detention, although he remains weak. Thaksin, a 74-year-old billionaire, was granted parole on February 18 after spending six months in detention. This marked his first day of freedom in Thailand, 15 years after he fled the country following a military coup that removed him from power.
Speaking to reporters, Srettha revealed that there wasn’t much conversation during his visit to Thaksin. However, he noted that Thaksin’s arm, which was in a sling, could move slightly. Despite his physical condition, Thaksin was reportedly in a positive mood and smiling. “He’s happy to be home,” Srettha added.
Thaksin has been at the center of a power struggle between his family, which is associated with the Pheu Thai Party, and a coalition of royalists, military figures, and established wealthy families that have traditionally held significant influence over Thai politics and institutions.
Upon his return from exile, Thaksin faced the prospect of years in prison on charges of corruption and abuse of power, which he vehemently denies as politically motivated. On his first night in jail, he was transferred to the luxury wing of a police hospital, where he served his detention. During his time there, doctors reported that he experienced chest tightness and high blood pressure.
In August, Thailand’s king commuted Thaksin’s prison sentence from eight years to one year, of which he served half. Following his release, Srettha paid a visit to Thaksin at his residence in Bangkok. The prime minister stated that their discussion did not revolve around how the influential former prime minister would contribute to the country. However, Srettha mentioned that Thaksin expressed concerns about the economic challenges facing Thailand.
“I didn’t talk about how he would help the country. But he is concerned about the country… as there are a lot of economic problems,” stated Srettha.
Thaksin’s return to Thailand last year coincided with Srettha, a political newcomer and ally, assuming the role of prime minister. This led many to speculate about a potential agreement between Thaksin and his powerful adversaries within Thailand’s royalist-military establishment. However, both Thaksin and the Pheu Thai Party-led government have dismissed such speculations.
