Thai Legal Experts Assert Revealing Thaksin’s Health Status Violates Privacy Laws
By Tanakorn Panyadee
24 September, 2023
Some Thai law experts came out to say that disclosing the personal health conditions of a former Prime Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, could constitute a violation of the National Health Security Act.
The warning came in response to a recent call by the Student and People Network for Thailand Reform (SNT) Association, which demanded the detailed disclosure of Thaksin’s current health status as his stay in a hospital versus a prison recently marked one month last week.
The SNT stated that they wanted the doctors at Police General Hospital to provide clarification on Thaksin’s illness to ensure that he was not receiving any privileges for staying in a hospital instead of a prison.
However, some Thai legal experts cautioned against such an action, saying physicians are required by law to keep patient information confidential as stipulated in the National Health Act of 2007 and the Medical Profession Act of 1982.
They said detainees are considered regular patients when seeking medical attention. In order to reveal their health condition to the public, prisoners must provide consent first.
Upon Thaksin’s first-day incarceration at Bangkok Remand Prison, he was reported to have five medical conditions, including an ischemic heart muscle, chronic pulmonary inflammation, high blood pressure, degenerated spine, and abnormal posture.
His daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, also revealed on social media that Thaksin had recently undergone surgery; however, she did not mention what it was for.
Due to the surgery, the doctors have allowed Thaksin to continue receiving treatment at the hospital. If his stay exceeds 60 days, it will require approval from the permanent secretary for justice, and if it exceeds 120 days, it must be endorsed by the justice minister.
https://tpnnational.com/2023/09/24/thai ... vacy-laws/
Thaksin Returns to Thailand
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Re: Thaksin Returns to Thailand
Top cop demands Thaksin health report from hospital
October 18, 2023
National police chief Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol on Tuesday called on the Police General Hospital (PGH) to submit a report on the treatment it is providing for jailed former premier Thaksin Shinawatra.
The call came after a photo was circulated showing Thaksin on a gurney wearing a patient's gown and face mask, heading for computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.
The photo, which went viral on social media last week, sparked criticism regarding the special privileges and treatment Thaksin may be receiving.
It has been alleged that the picture was circulated on purpose. Critics said it may be intended to give the impression that Thaksin remains seriously ill and needs further hospital treatment outside of prison.
The photo came as Thaksin's out-of-prison hospitalisation deadline of 90 days is due to expire on Friday.
On Tuesday, Pol Gen Torsak admitted he knew little about the hospitalisation issue since he was only recently appointed national police chief.
The former premier is under the supervision of the Corrections Department, which has asked the police to assist in providing security for the former premier.
Thaksin, 74, returned to Thailand on Aug 22 after 15 years of self-imposed exile and was sentenced to a total of eight years in three cases.
However, he was sent from Bangkok Remand Prison to the PGH that night for health reasons, and he has remained there since.
After seeking a royal pardon, his eight-year jail term was cut to one year by His Majesty the King.
On Tuesday morning, political activist Srisuwan Janya filed a petition with the Justice Ministry demanding an investigation into Thaksin's treatment at the PGH to see if it violates the Corrections Act.
Even though the picture was taken from afar, critics claim it was staged, with Thaksin's face unmasked to show it was him, to make it look as though the former premier still requires medical attention.
Mr Srisuwan noted that despite Thaksin's series of illnesses -- including heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, and a herniated lumbar disc -- his hospitalisation at the PGH might violate the Corrections Act, which states that only prisoners who suffered critical or mental illness are allowed to receive special treatment outside of prison.
He also questioned why Thaksin was not given a short prisoner haircut, which is a requirement under Corrections Department regulations.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/ge ... m-hospital
October 18, 2023
National police chief Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol on Tuesday called on the Police General Hospital (PGH) to submit a report on the treatment it is providing for jailed former premier Thaksin Shinawatra.
The call came after a photo was circulated showing Thaksin on a gurney wearing a patient's gown and face mask, heading for computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.
The photo, which went viral on social media last week, sparked criticism regarding the special privileges and treatment Thaksin may be receiving.
It has been alleged that the picture was circulated on purpose. Critics said it may be intended to give the impression that Thaksin remains seriously ill and needs further hospital treatment outside of prison.
The photo came as Thaksin's out-of-prison hospitalisation deadline of 90 days is due to expire on Friday.
On Tuesday, Pol Gen Torsak admitted he knew little about the hospitalisation issue since he was only recently appointed national police chief.
The former premier is under the supervision of the Corrections Department, which has asked the police to assist in providing security for the former premier.
Thaksin, 74, returned to Thailand on Aug 22 after 15 years of self-imposed exile and was sentenced to a total of eight years in three cases.
However, he was sent from Bangkok Remand Prison to the PGH that night for health reasons, and he has remained there since.
After seeking a royal pardon, his eight-year jail term was cut to one year by His Majesty the King.
On Tuesday morning, political activist Srisuwan Janya filed a petition with the Justice Ministry demanding an investigation into Thaksin's treatment at the PGH to see if it violates the Corrections Act.
Even though the picture was taken from afar, critics claim it was staged, with Thaksin's face unmasked to show it was him, to make it look as though the former premier still requires medical attention.
Mr Srisuwan noted that despite Thaksin's series of illnesses -- including heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, and a herniated lumbar disc -- his hospitalisation at the PGH might violate the Corrections Act, which states that only prisoners who suffered critical or mental illness are allowed to receive special treatment outside of prison.
He also questioned why Thaksin was not given a short prisoner haircut, which is a requirement under Corrections Department regulations.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/ge ... m-hospital
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Re: Thaksin Returns to Thailand
Not a good idea. These people want Thaksin in prison with no preferential treatment, but if they do what they are threatening, they'll find themselves in prison too and rightfully so. In my opinion they are justified in being suspicious and wanting proof one way or another whether Thaksin is truly too ill to be in prison, but what they have in mind is hardly the way to go about it. They have no right to invade someone's hospital room.
It does seem strange that Thaksin appeared to be perfectly healthy when he returned to Thailand August 22, and yet a few hours later he has to be hospitalized and 2 months later he still needs to be in the hospital. That does seem a bit difficult to swallow, but invading a hospital room to find out? At the very least that's trespassing and I'm sure they would face much more serious charges if they go through with it.
And unless at least one of these people are medical doctors, they are in a position to verify nothing.
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Thai Activists Threaten Hospital Visit to Verify Thaksin’s Health Claims
By Tanakorn Panyadee
20 October, 2023
A group of activists, who refer to themselves as the “Network of Students and People Reforming Thailand,” threatened to storm the hospital room of Thailand’s former Prime Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, to verify if he is genuinely sick.
Despite the doubtful legality of this move, the group led by Mr. Phichit Chaimongkol submitted a petition to the Ministry of Justice on Wednesday, October 18th, urging the ministry to cease granting alleged privileges to the incarcerated premier.
Mr. Phichit claimed that the justice ministry is allegedly providing Thaksin with preferential treatment by allowing him to stay in the Police General Hospital’s Premium Ward for an unusually long period when he should be serving time in prison.
According to Mr. Phichit, this action has undermined Thailand’s judicial system. He added that if the ministry does not respond to his group’s demands, which include Thaksin returning to prison immediately, not extending his treatment outside of prison, and allowing a human rights organization to monitor Thaksin’s health, his group will go to the premium ward where the former PM is believed to be staying to verify if he is ill enough to justify his stay there.
Thaksin, 74, is said to be in the Premium Ward on the 14th floor of the Police General Hospital, due to alleged health conditions. His stay at the hospital was also recently extended due to a recent surgery related to an undisclosed health condition.
Nevertheless, Thaksin’s external treatment at the hospital is set to expire today. The Ministry of Justice is responsible for considering another extension.
A recent photo of Thaksin being taken to medical treatment was highly scrutinized on Thai social media as we covered here.
Meanwhile, Thai prison authorities have continually stated that revealing Thaksin’s medical conditions or allowing activists to confirm his status violate Thai medical privacy laws as we covered here.
https://thepattayanews.com/2023/10/20/t ... th-claims/
It does seem strange that Thaksin appeared to be perfectly healthy when he returned to Thailand August 22, and yet a few hours later he has to be hospitalized and 2 months later he still needs to be in the hospital. That does seem a bit difficult to swallow, but invading a hospital room to find out? At the very least that's trespassing and I'm sure they would face much more serious charges if they go through with it.
And unless at least one of these people are medical doctors, they are in a position to verify nothing.
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Thai Activists Threaten Hospital Visit to Verify Thaksin’s Health Claims
By Tanakorn Panyadee
20 October, 2023
A group of activists, who refer to themselves as the “Network of Students and People Reforming Thailand,” threatened to storm the hospital room of Thailand’s former Prime Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, to verify if he is genuinely sick.
Despite the doubtful legality of this move, the group led by Mr. Phichit Chaimongkol submitted a petition to the Ministry of Justice on Wednesday, October 18th, urging the ministry to cease granting alleged privileges to the incarcerated premier.
Mr. Phichit claimed that the justice ministry is allegedly providing Thaksin with preferential treatment by allowing him to stay in the Police General Hospital’s Premium Ward for an unusually long period when he should be serving time in prison.
According to Mr. Phichit, this action has undermined Thailand’s judicial system. He added that if the ministry does not respond to his group’s demands, which include Thaksin returning to prison immediately, not extending his treatment outside of prison, and allowing a human rights organization to monitor Thaksin’s health, his group will go to the premium ward where the former PM is believed to be staying to verify if he is ill enough to justify his stay there.
Thaksin, 74, is said to be in the Premium Ward on the 14th floor of the Police General Hospital, due to alleged health conditions. His stay at the hospital was also recently extended due to a recent surgery related to an undisclosed health condition.
Nevertheless, Thaksin’s external treatment at the hospital is set to expire today. The Ministry of Justice is responsible for considering another extension.
A recent photo of Thaksin being taken to medical treatment was highly scrutinized on Thai social media as we covered here.
Meanwhile, Thai prison authorities have continually stated that revealing Thaksin’s medical conditions or allowing activists to confirm his status violate Thai medical privacy laws as we covered here.
https://thepattayanews.com/2023/10/20/t ... th-claims/
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Re: Thaksin Returns to Thailand
I'm wondering if Thaksin is ever going to see the inside of prison other than those first few hours at all. My guess is no. I don't think it is farfetched to believe he had it all prearranged before returning to Thailand and all he has to do is wait a few months, get a pardon, and he's free. We'll see. But if he does end up in prison, I will certainly be surprised.
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Thaksin's out-of-prison hospital stay extended
Corrections department says medical opinion supports treatment beyond 60 days at Police General Hospital
October 21, 2023
Jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra will continue receiving treatment at Police General Hospital under an extension approved by the Department of Corrections chief after a 60-day out-of-prison period expired on Saturday.
The recommendation by director-general Sahakarn Phetnarin was based on a medical opinion, according to a statement released by the department’s public relations officials on Saturday evening.
It said the department had received a report from the Bangkok Remand Prison that doctors had concluded it was necessary for Thaksin to remain in Police General Hospital.
Details of his treatment could not be disclosed, in keeping with the patient’s right to privacy and medical ethics, said the statement.
Thaksin, 74, is known to have high blood pressure as well as heart and respiratory problems and other ailments associated with old age. He had surgery last month for an unspecified condition, his daughter Paetongtarn said.
The department director-general’s approval, the medical opinion and related evidence have been submitted to the permanent secretary for the Ministry of Justice, who must give final approval to the extension.
Under the regulations governing inmate transfers to outside hospitals, any stay longer than 30 days must be approved by the director-general of the Department of Corrections. That approval was granted on Sept 22.
If the treatment lasts more than 60 days, approval by the permanent secretary for Justice is needed. Approval by the justice minister is required if treatment lasts more than 120 days.
National police chief Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol said earlier on Saturday that a medical opinion would be sent to the Department of Corrections to decide whether the patient would be transferred back to a prison or not. It was not up to the Office of the Royal Thai Police to decide, he said.
On Tuesday, the police chief ordered the Police General Hospital to submit a report on the treatment provided for Thaksin.
The move came after a photo was circulated showing Thaksin on a gurney wearing a patient’s gown and face mask, heading for computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. He was reportedly returned to his room on the 14th floor of the hospital immediately after the scans.
The photo, which went viral on social media, sparked criticism about special privileges and treatment Thaksin might be receiving.
Earlier, a group calling itself the Network of Students and People Reforming Thailand called on the Ministry of Justice to stop giving special privileges to Thaksin.
Thaksin returned to the country on Aug 22 after more than 15 years of self-exile abroad. He was immediately sentenced to eight years in prison in three cases — later reduced to one year under a royal pardon — for abuse of authority and conflict of interest while serving as premier prior to 2006
He was admitted to Police General Hospital on the night of Aug 22, 13 hours after he first entered prison, and he has been staying there ever since. The Royal Thai Police and the Department of Corrections have denied giving the convict any privileged treatment.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/ge ... y-extended
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Thaksin's out-of-prison hospital stay extended
Corrections department says medical opinion supports treatment beyond 60 days at Police General Hospital
October 21, 2023
Jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra will continue receiving treatment at Police General Hospital under an extension approved by the Department of Corrections chief after a 60-day out-of-prison period expired on Saturday.
The recommendation by director-general Sahakarn Phetnarin was based on a medical opinion, according to a statement released by the department’s public relations officials on Saturday evening.
It said the department had received a report from the Bangkok Remand Prison that doctors had concluded it was necessary for Thaksin to remain in Police General Hospital.
Details of his treatment could not be disclosed, in keeping with the patient’s right to privacy and medical ethics, said the statement.
Thaksin, 74, is known to have high blood pressure as well as heart and respiratory problems and other ailments associated with old age. He had surgery last month for an unspecified condition, his daughter Paetongtarn said.
The department director-general’s approval, the medical opinion and related evidence have been submitted to the permanent secretary for the Ministry of Justice, who must give final approval to the extension.
Under the regulations governing inmate transfers to outside hospitals, any stay longer than 30 days must be approved by the director-general of the Department of Corrections. That approval was granted on Sept 22.
If the treatment lasts more than 60 days, approval by the permanent secretary for Justice is needed. Approval by the justice minister is required if treatment lasts more than 120 days.
National police chief Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol said earlier on Saturday that a medical opinion would be sent to the Department of Corrections to decide whether the patient would be transferred back to a prison or not. It was not up to the Office of the Royal Thai Police to decide, he said.
On Tuesday, the police chief ordered the Police General Hospital to submit a report on the treatment provided for Thaksin.
The move came after a photo was circulated showing Thaksin on a gurney wearing a patient’s gown and face mask, heading for computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. He was reportedly returned to his room on the 14th floor of the hospital immediately after the scans.
The photo, which went viral on social media, sparked criticism about special privileges and treatment Thaksin might be receiving.
Earlier, a group calling itself the Network of Students and People Reforming Thailand called on the Ministry of Justice to stop giving special privileges to Thaksin.
Thaksin returned to the country on Aug 22 after more than 15 years of self-exile abroad. He was immediately sentenced to eight years in prison in three cases — later reduced to one year under a royal pardon — for abuse of authority and conflict of interest while serving as premier prior to 2006
He was admitted to Police General Hospital on the night of Aug 22, 13 hours after he first entered prison, and he has been staying there ever since. The Royal Thai Police and the Department of Corrections have denied giving the convict any privileged treatment.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/ge ... y-extended
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Re: Thaksin Returns to Thailand
Neither article gives specifics as to what happened to Thaksin and the nature of the surgery. It will be interesting to see whether simply reporting Thaksin underwent surgery, but including virtually no details, will be enough to convince skeptics that Thaksin really is too ill to be returned to prison.
All things considered, I still don't understand why he returned to Thailand in the first place. What did he have to gain by returning? And what did he have to lose if he did not return?
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Former PM Thaksin undergoes orthopaedic surgery
by THE NATION
October 24, 2023
The Department of Corrections announced on Monday (October 23) that former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra underwent orthopaedic surgery yesterday morning and is currently recovering in the neurosurgical intensive care unit at the Police Hospital.
Department of Corrections director-general Sahakarn Phetnarin has ordered the superintendent of Bangkok Remand Prison to inspect the proceedings and ensure continuing care for Thaksin.
The department stressed that in the past, detainees have been sent out for external medical treatment, either commuting between prison and hospital or requiring extended stays due to various medical conditions. The number of cases where detainees were sent out for medical treatment for more than 30 days between October 1 and today (October 24) totals 149. Among these, 115 cases exceeded 30 days, 30 cases exceeded 60 days, and 4 cases exceeded 120 days.
Thaksin has been in the Bangkok Remand Prison’s custody since August 22 of this year, when he returned to Thailand after 15 years on the run to face several charges. He was transferred on the first night of his incarceration and admitted to the Police Hospital for medical treatment for various illnesses.
Anti-Thaksin groups have regularly demanded a probe into whether Thaksin is really ill.
https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand ... l/40032183
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Thaksin underwent surgery, now recuperating: Corrections Dept
October 23, 2023
The Corrections Department said this evening (Oct. 23) that de facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra underwent an operation at Police Hospital’s orthopaedic operation room and is now recuperating in the Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Matichon newspaper said.
As informed by the Bangkok Remand Prison Thaksin was in the operation room from 9 a.m. till 2 p.m. after which he was taken to NICU.
The department ordered the head of Bangkok Remand Prison to go to the hospital to check the performance of duties and maintain order.
The department also clarified that other inmates too had been sent outside the prison for medical treatment due to various ailments.
From Oct. 1, 2022 till today 149 inmates had got medical treatment outside the jail with 115 for over 30 days, 30 for over 60 days and four for over 120 days.
https://thainewsroom.com/2023/10/23/tha ... ions-dept/
All things considered, I still don't understand why he returned to Thailand in the first place. What did he have to gain by returning? And what did he have to lose if he did not return?
___________________________________________
Former PM Thaksin undergoes orthopaedic surgery
by THE NATION
October 24, 2023
The Department of Corrections announced on Monday (October 23) that former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra underwent orthopaedic surgery yesterday morning and is currently recovering in the neurosurgical intensive care unit at the Police Hospital.
Department of Corrections director-general Sahakarn Phetnarin has ordered the superintendent of Bangkok Remand Prison to inspect the proceedings and ensure continuing care for Thaksin.
The department stressed that in the past, detainees have been sent out for external medical treatment, either commuting between prison and hospital or requiring extended stays due to various medical conditions. The number of cases where detainees were sent out for medical treatment for more than 30 days between October 1 and today (October 24) totals 149. Among these, 115 cases exceeded 30 days, 30 cases exceeded 60 days, and 4 cases exceeded 120 days.
Thaksin has been in the Bangkok Remand Prison’s custody since August 22 of this year, when he returned to Thailand after 15 years on the run to face several charges. He was transferred on the first night of his incarceration and admitted to the Police Hospital for medical treatment for various illnesses.
Anti-Thaksin groups have regularly demanded a probe into whether Thaksin is really ill.
https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand ... l/40032183
_______________________________________________________
Thaksin underwent surgery, now recuperating: Corrections Dept
October 23, 2023
The Corrections Department said this evening (Oct. 23) that de facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra underwent an operation at Police Hospital’s orthopaedic operation room and is now recuperating in the Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Matichon newspaper said.
As informed by the Bangkok Remand Prison Thaksin was in the operation room from 9 a.m. till 2 p.m. after which he was taken to NICU.
The department ordered the head of Bangkok Remand Prison to go to the hospital to check the performance of duties and maintain order.
The department also clarified that other inmates too had been sent outside the prison for medical treatment due to various ailments.
From Oct. 1, 2022 till today 149 inmates had got medical treatment outside the jail with 115 for over 30 days, 30 for over 60 days and four for over 120 days.
https://thainewsroom.com/2023/10/23/tha ... ions-dept/
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Re: Thaksin Returns to Thailand
Apparently these reports about Thaksin's surgery does not satisfy skeptics.
________________________________
Thaksin surgery extends prison break
Corrections Department says Thaksin is not the only prisoner allowed extended medical treatment outside prison
October 24, 2023
Jailed former premier Thaksin Shinawatra underwent orthopaedic surgery on Monday at the Police General Hospital (PGH) although it remains unclear how long his recovery will take, which will extend his stay outside of prison, according to the Department of Corrections.
Sahakarn Petnarin, deputy permanent secretary for justice and acting director-general of the department, said on Tuesday that the Bangkok Remand Prison (BRP) informed the department of the procedure.
Citing a BRP report, the department said Thaksin, who is widely seen as the de-facto leader of the Pheu Thai Party, had surgery at 9am and was later transferred to the hospital’s Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for recovery at 2pm.
The department instructed the BRP’s director to visit the NICU to ensure everything is in order.
Mr Sahakarn said Thaksin's post-surgery condition is still under assessment, and this will determine the duration of his stay at the hospital.
Records show the 74-year-old former prime minister suffers multiple illnesses associated with advanced age, such as a herniated disc and weak hands and arms.
While the surgery was considered necessary and urgent, once he fully recovers, he will be returned for treatment at the prison's medical facility, Mr Sahakarn said.
He insisted that Thaksin is not receiving preferential treatment.
The news of Thaksin's surgery has been made public amid doubts about his medical conditions. He was admitted to the hospital from the BRP on Aug 22 after returning from 15 years of self-imposed exile.
Thaksin is not the only prisoner allowed to receive medical treatment outside the prison for this long, said the department.
Since Oct 1 last year, 149 inmates have received medical treatment outside prison. Of them, 115 were outside for more than 30 days, 30 stayed for more than 60 days, and four were outside for over 120 days, according to the department.
Meanwhile, political activist Srisuwan Janya petitioned the Medical Council of Thailand (MCT) to investigate whether doctors at the PGH were allegedly helping Thaksin fake his illnesses to justify his stay outside the prison.
The serial petitioner urged the MCT to find out whether the medical opinions about Thaksin’s conditions meet professional standards, emphasising the seriousness of the matter and the potential damage to Thailand's judicial system.
In response to questions surrounding a photo circulating on social media showing Thaksin on a gurney for a scan, Mr Srisuwan raised concerns about the discretion of medical staff during the transfer, the absence of IV drips, and the use of a general gurney instead of a more sophisticated one if Thaksin was in serious condition.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin confirmed the surgery and Thaksin's placement in an intensive care unit. However, he was unsure whether Thaksin has been discharged from the ICU.
Mr Srettha said he has learned that the surgery involved piercing Thaksin's arms in four areas.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/po ... ison-break
________________________________
Thaksin surgery extends prison break
Corrections Department says Thaksin is not the only prisoner allowed extended medical treatment outside prison
October 24, 2023
Jailed former premier Thaksin Shinawatra underwent orthopaedic surgery on Monday at the Police General Hospital (PGH) although it remains unclear how long his recovery will take, which will extend his stay outside of prison, according to the Department of Corrections.
Sahakarn Petnarin, deputy permanent secretary for justice and acting director-general of the department, said on Tuesday that the Bangkok Remand Prison (BRP) informed the department of the procedure.
Citing a BRP report, the department said Thaksin, who is widely seen as the de-facto leader of the Pheu Thai Party, had surgery at 9am and was later transferred to the hospital’s Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for recovery at 2pm.
The department instructed the BRP’s director to visit the NICU to ensure everything is in order.
Mr Sahakarn said Thaksin's post-surgery condition is still under assessment, and this will determine the duration of his stay at the hospital.
Records show the 74-year-old former prime minister suffers multiple illnesses associated with advanced age, such as a herniated disc and weak hands and arms.
While the surgery was considered necessary and urgent, once he fully recovers, he will be returned for treatment at the prison's medical facility, Mr Sahakarn said.
He insisted that Thaksin is not receiving preferential treatment.
The news of Thaksin's surgery has been made public amid doubts about his medical conditions. He was admitted to the hospital from the BRP on Aug 22 after returning from 15 years of self-imposed exile.
Thaksin is not the only prisoner allowed to receive medical treatment outside the prison for this long, said the department.
Since Oct 1 last year, 149 inmates have received medical treatment outside prison. Of them, 115 were outside for more than 30 days, 30 stayed for more than 60 days, and four were outside for over 120 days, according to the department.
Meanwhile, political activist Srisuwan Janya petitioned the Medical Council of Thailand (MCT) to investigate whether doctors at the PGH were allegedly helping Thaksin fake his illnesses to justify his stay outside the prison.
The serial petitioner urged the MCT to find out whether the medical opinions about Thaksin’s conditions meet professional standards, emphasising the seriousness of the matter and the potential damage to Thailand's judicial system.
In response to questions surrounding a photo circulating on social media showing Thaksin on a gurney for a scan, Mr Srisuwan raised concerns about the discretion of medical staff during the transfer, the absence of IV drips, and the use of a general gurney instead of a more sophisticated one if Thaksin was in serious condition.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin confirmed the surgery and Thaksin's placement in an intensive care unit. However, he was unsure whether Thaksin has been discharged from the ICU.
Mr Srettha said he has learned that the surgery involved piercing Thaksin's arms in four areas.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/po ... ison-break
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Re: Thaksin Returns to Thailand
Has anyone noticed that since the October 24 article, there hasn't been a single word of publicity about Thaksin? At least none that I can find.
Why is that?
Why is that?
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Re: Thaksin Returns to Thailand
Administrative Court to judge whether Thaksin is clinically or ‘politically’ ill
December 1, 2023
The Administrative Court will be shortly petitioned to judge whether de facto Pheu Thai boss/convict at large Thaksin Shinawatra is clinically or “politically” ill.
Political activist Srisuwan Janya confirmed today (Dec.1) he will shortly file a petition to the Administrative Court in search of a ruling on whether the de facto Pheu Thai boss/convict at large may have fallen clinically ill, thus needing a sustained medical treatment at Police Hospital, or may have simply feigned it all to keep himself from being literally put behind bars.
The Administrative Court may subpoena any persons dutifully taking care of the “sickly” Thaksin who has been staying in a private, tightened-security ward at Police Hospital for more than 100 days now for testimony, Srisuwan said.
Importantly, he said, the court may order for the manifestation of truthful evidence pertaining to details of the “illnesses” reportedly inflicted upon the de facto Pheu Thai boss/convict at large to justify his further stay at the hospital in lieu of Bangkok Remand Prison.
Officials of the Corrections Department and Police Hospital could no longer keep his “illnesses” details in confidentiality if ordered by court to unveil them, Srisuwan said.
Only inmates who may have been diagnosed with being mentally deranged or carrying a pandemic may be legally allowed to be transferred to any hospitals other than that in the premises of a prison whilst the “sickly” Thaksin has apparently not fitted in any of those categories, he said.
Those in charge of the Corrections Department and Police Hospital could possibly be found guilty by court of applying double standards or using legal loopholes to provide undue privileges for the “sickly” deposed prime minister who has been staying at the hospital since his return from abroad on Aug.22, according to the activist.
However, the details of the “illnesses” of the de facto Pheu Thai boss/convict at large who had apparently managed to find his way from Bangkok Remand Prison to Police Hospital have mostly remained a mystery to the public.
The hospital had earlier announced he had safely undergone an operation but failed to mention what part of his body had been operated.
In the meantime, the deposed prime minister was said to have taken part in the power play over the setup of a Pheu Thai-led government and allocation of cabinet portfolios among coalition partners, literally giving out orders via a cellphone from his private ward at the hospital to Pheu Thai wheeler-dealer Phumtham Wechayachai.
Thaksin who had taken self-exile overseas following the 2006 coup had been earlier found guilty of perpetrating misconduct in office and sentenced in absentia to eight years in prison which was already curtailed by royal pardon to only one year with the probability of being released on parole as soon as in the upcoming February.
https://thainewsroom.com/2023/12/01/adm ... cally-ill/
December 1, 2023
The Administrative Court will be shortly petitioned to judge whether de facto Pheu Thai boss/convict at large Thaksin Shinawatra is clinically or “politically” ill.
Political activist Srisuwan Janya confirmed today (Dec.1) he will shortly file a petition to the Administrative Court in search of a ruling on whether the de facto Pheu Thai boss/convict at large may have fallen clinically ill, thus needing a sustained medical treatment at Police Hospital, or may have simply feigned it all to keep himself from being literally put behind bars.
The Administrative Court may subpoena any persons dutifully taking care of the “sickly” Thaksin who has been staying in a private, tightened-security ward at Police Hospital for more than 100 days now for testimony, Srisuwan said.
Importantly, he said, the court may order for the manifestation of truthful evidence pertaining to details of the “illnesses” reportedly inflicted upon the de facto Pheu Thai boss/convict at large to justify his further stay at the hospital in lieu of Bangkok Remand Prison.
Officials of the Corrections Department and Police Hospital could no longer keep his “illnesses” details in confidentiality if ordered by court to unveil them, Srisuwan said.
Only inmates who may have been diagnosed with being mentally deranged or carrying a pandemic may be legally allowed to be transferred to any hospitals other than that in the premises of a prison whilst the “sickly” Thaksin has apparently not fitted in any of those categories, he said.
Those in charge of the Corrections Department and Police Hospital could possibly be found guilty by court of applying double standards or using legal loopholes to provide undue privileges for the “sickly” deposed prime minister who has been staying at the hospital since his return from abroad on Aug.22, according to the activist.
However, the details of the “illnesses” of the de facto Pheu Thai boss/convict at large who had apparently managed to find his way from Bangkok Remand Prison to Police Hospital have mostly remained a mystery to the public.
The hospital had earlier announced he had safely undergone an operation but failed to mention what part of his body had been operated.
In the meantime, the deposed prime minister was said to have taken part in the power play over the setup of a Pheu Thai-led government and allocation of cabinet portfolios among coalition partners, literally giving out orders via a cellphone from his private ward at the hospital to Pheu Thai wheeler-dealer Phumtham Wechayachai.
Thaksin who had taken self-exile overseas following the 2006 coup had been earlier found guilty of perpetrating misconduct in office and sentenced in absentia to eight years in prison which was already curtailed by royal pardon to only one year with the probability of being released on parole as soon as in the upcoming February.
https://thainewsroom.com/2023/12/01/adm ... cally-ill/
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Gaybutton
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Re: Thaksin Returns to Thailand
Thaksin now finds himself in potentially serious - very serious - legal trouble. He has been accused of violating Thailand's Lese Majeste law. If the case is prosecuted and if Thaksin is found guilty, the penalties can be quite severe, possible 3-15 years imprisonment or much more if the court so rules. Supposedly Thaksin is eligible for parole release during February, but if the Lese Majeste case proceeds he will be arrested again immediately, which obviously would prevent him from being able to escape.
I will post further news if and when it becomes available, but I am continuing locking this topic. I'll post the news, but I will not permit discussion.
___________________________________
Thaksin faces old charge of lese majeste
by Wassayos Ngamkham
February 6, 2024
Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra still faces a criminal charge of lese majeste dating back to 2016, and the attorney-general will decide if he will be indicted, the OAG spokesman said on Tuesday.
Prayut Phetcharakhun, spokesman for the Office of the Attorney-General, said that on Feb 16, 2016, the OAG received the case from police at the Technology Crime Suppression Division. Thaksin was alleged to have defamed the monarchy in comments made in Seoul, South Korea, on May 21, 2015.
According to spokesman Prayut, on Sept 19, 2016, then attorney-general Pongniwat Yuthapanboripan decided to indict Thaksin. At the time, Thaksin was a fugitive and the former attorney-general told police to seek an arrest warrant from the Criminal Court. The court issued the warrant.
After Thaksin returned to the country on Aug 22, 2023, police presented the arrest warrant to the Department of Corrections and sought his detention in the event that the 74-year-old former prime minister was released.
On Jan 17 this year, public prosecutors and police informed Thaksin of the lese majeste charge and a related computer crime charge. Thaksin denied the charges and filed a written petition for fair treatment. The present attorney-general had yet to decide if Thaksin should be indicted, he said.
OAG deputy spokesman Nakhen Thongpraiwan said the Department of Corrections had not responded to the request for Thaksin's continued detention. By law, the response must be given seven days before his release.
If the former PM's detention was extended, police interrogators would decide if Thaksin should be allowed temporary release during the questioning process, Mr Nakhen said. Thaksin had not so far been interrogated in this case.
Corrections director-general Sahakarn Phetnarin said on Tuesday that in principle Thaksin met criteria for parole, being old and ill and having served at least one-third of his prison term. Mr Sahakarn said his department had already prepared a list of inmates eligible for parole for the consideration of a parole committee and the justice minister.
In May 2015, Thaksin gave an interview to Chosun Ilbo in Seoul and claimed privy councillors supported the May 22, 2014, coup that ousted the government of his younger sister Yingluck Shinawatra.
A video clip of the interview was viewed widely on Thai social media.
Police believe comments made during the interview could have been in violation under the lese majeste law and the computer crime law. Section 112 of the Criminal Code, known as the lese majeste law, provides for punishment of 3-15 years in prison for each offence.
After 15 years of self-imposed exile, Thaksin returned to Thailand on Aug 22, 2023. The Supreme Court ordered his eight-year imprisonment for his previous and finalised legal cases. The sentence was later reduced to one year by royal clemency.
On the first night of his stay at Bangkok Remand Prison, corrections doctors determined that he should be transferred to Police General Hospital because of his serious illnesses.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/po ... se-majeste
I will post further news if and when it becomes available, but I am continuing locking this topic. I'll post the news, but I will not permit discussion.
___________________________________
Thaksin faces old charge of lese majeste
by Wassayos Ngamkham
February 6, 2024
Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra still faces a criminal charge of lese majeste dating back to 2016, and the attorney-general will decide if he will be indicted, the OAG spokesman said on Tuesday.
Prayut Phetcharakhun, spokesman for the Office of the Attorney-General, said that on Feb 16, 2016, the OAG received the case from police at the Technology Crime Suppression Division. Thaksin was alleged to have defamed the monarchy in comments made in Seoul, South Korea, on May 21, 2015.
According to spokesman Prayut, on Sept 19, 2016, then attorney-general Pongniwat Yuthapanboripan decided to indict Thaksin. At the time, Thaksin was a fugitive and the former attorney-general told police to seek an arrest warrant from the Criminal Court. The court issued the warrant.
After Thaksin returned to the country on Aug 22, 2023, police presented the arrest warrant to the Department of Corrections and sought his detention in the event that the 74-year-old former prime minister was released.
On Jan 17 this year, public prosecutors and police informed Thaksin of the lese majeste charge and a related computer crime charge. Thaksin denied the charges and filed a written petition for fair treatment. The present attorney-general had yet to decide if Thaksin should be indicted, he said.
OAG deputy spokesman Nakhen Thongpraiwan said the Department of Corrections had not responded to the request for Thaksin's continued detention. By law, the response must be given seven days before his release.
If the former PM's detention was extended, police interrogators would decide if Thaksin should be allowed temporary release during the questioning process, Mr Nakhen said. Thaksin had not so far been interrogated in this case.
Corrections director-general Sahakarn Phetnarin said on Tuesday that in principle Thaksin met criteria for parole, being old and ill and having served at least one-third of his prison term. Mr Sahakarn said his department had already prepared a list of inmates eligible for parole for the consideration of a parole committee and the justice minister.
In May 2015, Thaksin gave an interview to Chosun Ilbo in Seoul and claimed privy councillors supported the May 22, 2014, coup that ousted the government of his younger sister Yingluck Shinawatra.
A video clip of the interview was viewed widely on Thai social media.
Police believe comments made during the interview could have been in violation under the lese majeste law and the computer crime law. Section 112 of the Criminal Code, known as the lese majeste law, provides for punishment of 3-15 years in prison for each offence.
After 15 years of self-imposed exile, Thaksin returned to Thailand on Aug 22, 2023. The Supreme Court ordered his eight-year imprisonment for his previous and finalised legal cases. The sentence was later reduced to one year by royal clemency.
On the first night of his stay at Bangkok Remand Prison, corrections doctors determined that he should be transferred to Police General Hospital because of his serious illnesses.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/po ... se-majeste
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Gaybutton
- Posts: 21592
- Joined: Sat Jul 31, 2010 11:21 am
- Location: Thailand
- Has thanked: 2 times
- Been thanked: 1322 times
Re: Thaksin Returns to Thailand
Thaksin's parole confirmed, for release this weekend
Daughter says he will return to the family home
by Wassana Nanuam
February 13, 2024
Convicted former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra will be paroled this coming weekend because he is old and seriously ill, Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong confirmed on Tuesday.
Pol Col Tawee said at Government House that Thaksin was among 930 inmates whose release was approved by a parole committee. This month the Department of Corrections proposed parole for 945 inmates, he said.
Thaksin, 74, met parole criteria for being aged 70 years or more, suffering serious illnesses and having served at least six months of his one-year prison term, Pol Col Tawee said.
Under the regulations, a convict is eligible for parole after serving at least one-third of his jail term or at least six months if one-third is less than six months, and the remaining term must not exceed ten years.
The justice minister said the director-general of the Department of Corrections had sent the parole list to him and Thaksin could be released on either Feb 17 or 18.
Pol Col Tawee said the number of paroled inmates was similar each month, about 930.
"I would like to say, this is normal... Parole for serious illness, disability or being aged 70 years or more began in 2003. Since then 2,240 people have been paroled," the minister said.
After 15 years as a fugitive living overseas, Thaksin returned to Thailand on Aug 22, 2023. The same day, the Supreme Court ordered his imprisonment for eight years for previous and finalised legal cases.
On the first night of his stay at Bangkok Remand Prison, corrections doctors decided he should be transferred to Police General Hospital because of the serious nature of his illnesses. His eight-year term was subsequently reduced to one year by royal clemency.
Thaksin's daughter Paetongtarn, leader of the coalition-core Pheu Thai Party, said on Tuesday her father would return to the family home.
He had been confined to a hospital room for the last six months, she said, and thought he would probably go out once doctors agreed he was fit enough to do so.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/po ... is-weekend
________________________________________________________
From hospital to mansion: Thaksin to soon be released on parole
by THE NATION
February 13, 2024
Justice Minister Thawee Sodsong confirmed that he has approved Thaksin Shinawatra’s parole as he is believed to have completed half his jail term without spending a single night behind bars.
Thawee was responding to earlier reports on Tuesday morning quoting a source from the Justice Ministry saying that the former PM was among the inmates allowed to “spend the rest of their jail terms at home”.
Thaksin’s name was reportedly added to a list initially approved by a subcommittee of the Corrections Department, before being given to Thawee for the final stamp of approval.
The source added that the subcommittee considered Thaksin eligible for parole because he has “served” half of his one-year jail term.
Thaksin, whose government was overthrown in a military coup in September 2006, had been in self-imposed exile overseas for 15 years before returning to Thailand on August 22 last year.
He was sentenced in absentia to eight years in jail in a couple of corruption cases. Upon arriving in Thailand, Thaksin was almost immediately taken to the Supreme Court to acknowledge his jail term and then to the Bangkok Remand Prison. However, later that very night, he was rushed to the Police General Hospital for an unidentified condition and has been receiving treatment there since.
It was earlier reported that Thaksin would complete half of his term on February 18, as it would mark 180 days in detention counting from August 22 last year.
Justice Minister Thawee Sodsong confirmed that he has approved Thaksin Shinawatra’s parole as he is believed to have completed half his jail term without spending a single night behind bars.
Thawee was responding to earlier reports on Tuesday morning quoting a source from the Justice Ministry saying that the former PM was among the inmates allowed to “spend the rest of their jail terms at home”.
Thaksin’s name was reportedly added to a list initially approved by a subcommittee of the Corrections Department, before being given to Thawee for the final stamp of approval.
The source added that the subcommittee considered Thaksin eligible for parole because he has “served” half of his one-year jail term.
Thaksin, whose government was overthrown in a military coup in September 2006, had been in self-imposed exile overseas for 15 years before returning to Thailand on August 22 last year.
He was sentenced in absentia to eight years in jail in a couple of corruption cases. Upon arriving in Thailand, Thaksin was almost immediately taken to the Supreme Court to acknowledge his jail term and then to the Bangkok Remand Prison. However, later that very night, he was rushed to the Police General Hospital for an unidentified condition and has been receiving treatment there since.
It was earlier reported that Thaksin would complete half of his term on February 18, as it would mark 180 days in detention counting from August 22 last year.
No date set
The source, however, said that so far it cannot be confirmed when Thaksin will be released as the Justice Ministry has to complete proceedings before the actual release date can be announced.
Thawee said he had been given a list of 945 inmates to consider for parole and has agreed to have 930 of them released from jail and placed on house arrest.
The minister noted that Article 52 of the Corrections Act states that a person eligible for parole should have served at least six months or a third of their term, with the remaining time behind bars being less than 10 years.
Thawee added that Thaksin was deemed to be eligible for special parole because he is among the elderly (aged 70 or above) and ill inmates listed.
He said as soon as Thaksin completes his six months “in jail”, he will automatically be granted parole.
Last week, Thaksin’s youngest daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra said the family mansion in Bangkok has been prepared for Thaksin to stay in during his parole.
Crying foul
Opponents of the former leader, however, are outraged by the reprieve, saying Thaksin should not be eligible as he has not spent a single night behind bars.
The Corrections Department had announced regulations for the special parole soon after Thaksin returned. However, the department said this was a coincidence as the law approving the special parole had been enacted much earlier as a measure to reduce congestion in prison.
Daughter says he will return to the family home
by Wassana Nanuam
February 13, 2024
Convicted former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra will be paroled this coming weekend because he is old and seriously ill, Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong confirmed on Tuesday.
Pol Col Tawee said at Government House that Thaksin was among 930 inmates whose release was approved by a parole committee. This month the Department of Corrections proposed parole for 945 inmates, he said.
Thaksin, 74, met parole criteria for being aged 70 years or more, suffering serious illnesses and having served at least six months of his one-year prison term, Pol Col Tawee said.
Under the regulations, a convict is eligible for parole after serving at least one-third of his jail term or at least six months if one-third is less than six months, and the remaining term must not exceed ten years.
The justice minister said the director-general of the Department of Corrections had sent the parole list to him and Thaksin could be released on either Feb 17 or 18.
Pol Col Tawee said the number of paroled inmates was similar each month, about 930.
"I would like to say, this is normal... Parole for serious illness, disability or being aged 70 years or more began in 2003. Since then 2,240 people have been paroled," the minister said.
After 15 years as a fugitive living overseas, Thaksin returned to Thailand on Aug 22, 2023. The same day, the Supreme Court ordered his imprisonment for eight years for previous and finalised legal cases.
On the first night of his stay at Bangkok Remand Prison, corrections doctors decided he should be transferred to Police General Hospital because of the serious nature of his illnesses. His eight-year term was subsequently reduced to one year by royal clemency.
Thaksin's daughter Paetongtarn, leader of the coalition-core Pheu Thai Party, said on Tuesday her father would return to the family home.
He had been confined to a hospital room for the last six months, she said, and thought he would probably go out once doctors agreed he was fit enough to do so.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/po ... is-weekend
________________________________________________________
From hospital to mansion: Thaksin to soon be released on parole
by THE NATION
February 13, 2024
Justice Minister Thawee Sodsong confirmed that he has approved Thaksin Shinawatra’s parole as he is believed to have completed half his jail term without spending a single night behind bars.
Thawee was responding to earlier reports on Tuesday morning quoting a source from the Justice Ministry saying that the former PM was among the inmates allowed to “spend the rest of their jail terms at home”.
Thaksin’s name was reportedly added to a list initially approved by a subcommittee of the Corrections Department, before being given to Thawee for the final stamp of approval.
The source added that the subcommittee considered Thaksin eligible for parole because he has “served” half of his one-year jail term.
Thaksin, whose government was overthrown in a military coup in September 2006, had been in self-imposed exile overseas for 15 years before returning to Thailand on August 22 last year.
He was sentenced in absentia to eight years in jail in a couple of corruption cases. Upon arriving in Thailand, Thaksin was almost immediately taken to the Supreme Court to acknowledge his jail term and then to the Bangkok Remand Prison. However, later that very night, he was rushed to the Police General Hospital for an unidentified condition and has been receiving treatment there since.
It was earlier reported that Thaksin would complete half of his term on February 18, as it would mark 180 days in detention counting from August 22 last year.
Justice Minister Thawee Sodsong confirmed that he has approved Thaksin Shinawatra’s parole as he is believed to have completed half his jail term without spending a single night behind bars.
Thawee was responding to earlier reports on Tuesday morning quoting a source from the Justice Ministry saying that the former PM was among the inmates allowed to “spend the rest of their jail terms at home”.
Thaksin’s name was reportedly added to a list initially approved by a subcommittee of the Corrections Department, before being given to Thawee for the final stamp of approval.
The source added that the subcommittee considered Thaksin eligible for parole because he has “served” half of his one-year jail term.
Thaksin, whose government was overthrown in a military coup in September 2006, had been in self-imposed exile overseas for 15 years before returning to Thailand on August 22 last year.
He was sentenced in absentia to eight years in jail in a couple of corruption cases. Upon arriving in Thailand, Thaksin was almost immediately taken to the Supreme Court to acknowledge his jail term and then to the Bangkok Remand Prison. However, later that very night, he was rushed to the Police General Hospital for an unidentified condition and has been receiving treatment there since.
It was earlier reported that Thaksin would complete half of his term on February 18, as it would mark 180 days in detention counting from August 22 last year.
No date set
The source, however, said that so far it cannot be confirmed when Thaksin will be released as the Justice Ministry has to complete proceedings before the actual release date can be announced.
Thawee said he had been given a list of 945 inmates to consider for parole and has agreed to have 930 of them released from jail and placed on house arrest.
The minister noted that Article 52 of the Corrections Act states that a person eligible for parole should have served at least six months or a third of their term, with the remaining time behind bars being less than 10 years.
Thawee added that Thaksin was deemed to be eligible for special parole because he is among the elderly (aged 70 or above) and ill inmates listed.
He said as soon as Thaksin completes his six months “in jail”, he will automatically be granted parole.
Last week, Thaksin’s youngest daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra said the family mansion in Bangkok has been prepared for Thaksin to stay in during his parole.
Crying foul
Opponents of the former leader, however, are outraged by the reprieve, saying Thaksin should not be eligible as he has not spent a single night behind bars.
The Corrections Department had announced regulations for the special parole soon after Thaksin returned. However, the department said this was a coincidence as the law approving the special parole had been enacted much earlier as a measure to reduce congestion in prison.