7-3-2024 (BANGKOK) Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, currently on probation at home after being released on parole, is reportedly seeking approval for a short trip to his hometown of Chiang Mai, according to the Department of Probation.
Montree Bunyayothin, deputy director-general of the department, revealed on Wednesday that Thaksin’s youngest daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, acting as his probationary sponsor, has the option to formally request travel permission on his behalf. The request must be submitted to a probation officer at the nearest probation office, including a detailed itinerary and specific reasons for Thaksin’s need to travel.
Responding to reports quoting Paetongtarn’s desire for her father to pay respects to deceased relatives at the Shinawatra family’s graveyard in Chiang Mai, Mr Montree emphasized that the request’s thoroughness would play a crucial role in the decision-making process.
Approval is likely if the proposed trip is short and contributes to the mental and physical well-being of the 74-year-old former premier, he added. In such cases, it would be considered a temporary change of accommodation, requiring advance notification to relevant probation officers.
Despite reports, Mr Montree did not confirm whether a travel permission request had already been submitted, citing confidentiality.
Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul refrained from commenting on whether Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s scheduled visit to Chiang Mai would coincide with Thaksin’s potential trip.
In a separate development, Pichit Tamul, a leader of Thaksin supporters and the red-shirt United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) in Chiang Mai, expressed excitement about the prospect of welcoming Thaksin back after 17 years. Pichit mentioned plans for a Lanna-style homecoming ceremony near Wat Rong Tham Samakkhi in San Kamphaeng district, subject to permission from the Shinawatra family due to Thaksin’s probationary status.
Meanwhile, Democrat Party list-MP Jurin Laksanawisit issued a warning to fugitive former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, cautioning against a return without serving prison time, similar to Thaksin. He stressed the potential impact on public sentiment, urging them not to compromise the country’s justice system.
