23-12-2023 (BANGKOK) Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, convicted on multiple charges, has been granted an extension of his stay at the Police General Hospital by the Department of Corrections (DoC), marking 120 days of medical treatment on Friday.
The decision has ignited criticism over a recent DoC regulation allowing qualified inmates to be detained outside prison, with sceptics arguing it appears tailored to benefit Thaksin.
Police General Hospital spokeswoman, Pol Col Sirikul Srisanga, clarified that the hospital had formally communicated Thaksin’s medical conditions to the DoC. She affirmed, “Thaksin will continue to receive medical treatment here at the hospital.”
Under the DoC’s regulation for inmate medical treatment outside prison, doctors are required to report treatment outcomes to the DoC for evaluation. Pol Col Sirikul specified that the 14th floor, where Thaksin is residing, is assigned as a court-ordered detention area under DoC supervision.
The National Health Act mandates the confidentiality of health information, emphasizing that disclosure, except with the individual’s consent, could cause harm. Pol Col Sirikul cautioned media against reporting that infringes on Thaksin’s rights or the rights of other patients in the hospital.
On December 6, the DoC implemented the new rule aligned with the Corrections Act BE 2560 (2017). It outlines specific criteria and categorization by a screening panel for inmates allowed detention outside prison, including at registered addresses.
Thaksin, aged 74, returned to Thailand on August 22 after 15 years of self-imposed exile, receiving an eight-year sentence in three cases. However, he was immediately transferred from Bangkok Remand Prison to the Police General Hospital for health reasons and has remained there since.
Deputy Prime Minister Somsak Thepsutin defended the rule, asserting that Thaksin’s stay outside prison is contingent on medical recommendations. He clarified, “This is not about concealing information, but it is about a regulation. The inmate will decide who will be allowed to visit.”
Mr. Somsak cautioned members of the House committee on police affairs against inspecting the 14th floor without permission, hinting at potential legal action from Thaksin or his family.
Thaksin’s lawyer, Winyat Chartmontree, echoed concerns on social media, warning against demanding medical information without consent or making allegations about Thaksin’s condition. He deemed such actions an infringement on the patient’s rights and a violation of human rights.
Pichit Chaimongkol, leader of the Network of Students and People Reforming Thailand, petitioned the Royal Thai Police for an update on Thaksin’s health conditions, questioning the necessity of special treatment and accusing the DoC of crafting the regulation to favour Thaksin. The activist pointed out Thaksin’s seemingly robust appearance upon arrival and questioned the sudden deterioration of his health.
