Thailand’s Supreme Court Orders Ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra to Serve One-Year Jail Term
Thailand’s Supreme Court has ruled that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra must return to prison and serve a one-year sentence, intensifying scrutiny over the country’s political elite.
Court Declares Hospital Stay Illegal
The decision relates to Thaksin’s 2023 corruption conviction, where he was sentenced to eight years in prison for corruption and abuse of power. However, he spent less than a day in jail before being moved to a luxury wing of Bangkok’s Police General Hospital, citing heart issues.
On Tuesday, judges concluded that the transfer was unlawful. While Thaksin, 76, does suffer from chronic illnesses, the court ruled his condition was not life-threatening and could have been treated as an outpatient.
The controversy became known as the “14th floor case”, named after the hospital floor where he stayed for six months, fueling anger among Thais who believe the wealthy often receive special privileges.
Thaksin’s Statement After the Verdict
Following the ruling, Thaksin released a message on social media, saying:
“Even though I lose my physical freedom, I will still have freedom of thought for the benefit of my country and its people.”
He also emphasized his loyalty to the monarchy and vowed to remain resilient for Thailand’s future.
A Political Career Marked by Controversy
Thaksin rose to power in 2001 and transformed Thai politics with policies aimed at benefiting rural and working-class citizens. But his administration was plagued by allegations of corruption and abuse of power, culminating in his removal during a 2006 military coup.
He lived abroad in self-exile, primarily in Dubai, before returning to Thailand in 2023. Upon arrival, he was arrested and sentenced. Later that year, King Maha Vajiralongkorn commuted his sentence from eight years to one. His hospital stay and parole, however, stirred widespread criticism.
Family Reaction and Political Fallout
Thaksin appeared in court with his daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who told reporters she was “worried” about her father but said the family remained in good spirits.
Paetongtarn, who briefly led the Pheu Thai party, was removed from office earlier this year after a leaked phone call with Cambodia’s former leader Hun Sen drew backlash. Despite her removal, she has pledged to continue her family’s political work from the opposition.
Thailand’s Changing Political Landscape
The Supreme Court’s decision comes during a turbulent period for Thai politics. Just last week, lawmakers chose Anutin Charnvirakul as the country’s third prime minister in two years. His Bhumjaithai Party broke from Pheu Thai’s coalition and gathered enough support in parliament to form a government.
Thaksin’s return to prison is expected to deepen political divides in Thailand, where debates over corruption, privilege, and the monarchy’s influence remain at the center of public life.