Thailand’s Thaksin Shinawatra from Exile to Prison, to Hospital

Thailand’s former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was moved to hospital overnight following complaints of tightness in the chest and high blood pressure, just hours after he was arrested and jailed when he landed at Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport Tuesday. 

Shinawatra made his homecoming on Tuesday after 15 years in self-imposed exile. Before being swept away in a police convoy to the Supreme Court, the 74-year-old paid his respects to the King. The Supreme Court swiftly sentenced Shinawatra to eight years in jail

The Department of Corrections said the founder of the populist Pheu Thai party was transferred to hospital at 1am during his first night in prison. “Due to lack of proper medical equipment, the doctor believed that there could be a risk to life. They agreed to transfer the patient to the Police Hospital, which is better equipped.” 

Shinawatra was earlier held in a medical ward of Bangkok remand prison and was being closely monitored. Officials said he was in the “vulnerable category” of prisoners. Moreover, a medical checkup on Tuesday established that he had heart and lung problems, high blood pressure and spine problems. The Thai Royal Police, in an official statement, said a prison doctor examined Shinawatra and urgently had him transferred to the hospital. The former PM is eligible to apply for a royal pardon during his first day in jail. Sources believe medical reasons could get him out – greater leniency. 

Keep Reading

Meanwhile, thousands of Shinawatra supporters took to the roads on Tuesday to celebrate their leader’s homecoming. Local media reports say he had struck a deal with his opposition in the military and political establishment for his safe return. 

In September 2006, Shinawatra was toppled when the Thai military seized power; at that time he was in the United States preparing to address the United Nations. He was accused of human rights abuses, violent conflict in Thailand, and a drugs war. Shinawatra was also convicted of abuse of power. 

However, Shinawatra is recognized as Thailand’s most popular leaders and politicians, as well as for his populist policies like the universal healthcare scheme.

Katherine S

1/4 German, 3/4 Malaysian. I write, follow and monitor closely political news happening in Malaysia, and other happening news in the ASEAN region. Newswriter for the best ASEAN news website - The Asian Affairs.

Recent Posts

Lawmakers Challenge Duterte-Era Drug War with Proposed “Public Health Approach to Drug Use Act”

By submitting House Bill No. 11004, the proposed Public Health Approach to Drug Use Act of 2024, newly inaugurated congressman…

November 5, 2024

Korea and UAE Forge New Paths in Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs)

With an eye toward healthcare and biotechnology especially, the Republic of Korea and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have lately…

November 5, 2024

Netflix Becomes a Surprising Hub for Shojo Anime Fans

Long prized for its romantic themes, nuanced characters, and emphasis on personal development, shojo anime has become an unexpected Netflix…

November 5, 2024

Indonesia Extends Sales Ban to Google Pixel Following Non-Compliance with Investment Requirements

Indonesia’s Ministry of Industry has implemented a ban on the sale of Google Pixel phones within the country, adding to…

November 4, 2024

One Piece Unveils Revamped Fish-Man Island Saga with New Opening Theme as Anime Prepares for 2025 Return

One Piece offers a new take of the legendary Fish-Man Island arc, so fans are in for a nostalgic trip…

November 4, 2024

Johor to Pioneer Premium Salaries for Skilled Workers as Malaysia’s First State Initiative under Johor-Singapore SEZ

Particularly in areas related to the forthcoming Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), Johor is poised to become the first state…

November 4, 2024

This website uses cookies.

Read More