BANGKOK, July 27 (TNA) – Deputy Pime Minister and Acting Justice Minister Wissanu Krue-ngam ordered the Corrections Department to provide security and appropriate convenience to former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra as he is set to return to Thailand on Aug 10 after 15 years in self-imposed exile.
Wissanu disclosed the post-arrival arrangements for Thaksin’s return, saying that preparations have been made in accordance with standard procedures. As for whether Thaksin will request a royal pardon, Wissanu clarified that it is a right held by all inmates, but they must be in the process of serving their sentences. Once Thaksin has received his sentences, he can seek a royal pardon. The request for a royal pardon can be made within the first 24 hours of incarceration. If he is not granted a royal pardon this time, he will have to wait for another two years.
After his arrival, he will be escorted to receive the warrant at the Supreme Court and will be taken to detention facilities.
The decision on whether Thaksin will spend his time in a hospital or not will be left to the Department of Corrections, which oversees all inmates and their conditions. As Thaksin is currently 74 years old, he will be treated as an elderly inmate and can receive medical treatment he needs. However, Thaksin’s case cannot be confined to house arrest. He must be incarcerated in prison.
The deputy prime minister said he instructed the Department of Corrections to ensure Thaksin’s security, which may lead to different treatment from other inmates due to potential risks associated with his presence.
He ordered corrections officials to provide Thaksin with suitable convenience but not excessive privileges, as there may be visits from international organizations, human rights activists and his supporters.
Moreover, he will be given appropriate confort, taking into consideration his age and health condition as a person over 70 years old, with health issues requiring care different from younger inmates aged 25 or 30. (TNA)
