BANGKOK, May 27 (TNA) – Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made a public appearance today, delivering a vision for drug suppression, effectively countering rumors he had fled the country ahead of a court hearing related to his prison sentence enforcement.
Thaksin, 75, arrived at the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) in a Rolls-Royce. He was greeted by top officials including Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, Justice Minister Pol. Col. Tawee Sodsong, and national police chief Pol. Gen. Kitrat Phanphet.
Addressing reporters, Thaksin waved and stated, “I’m still well and haven’t gone anywhere.”
He later delivered a special lecture titled “Narcotics, Transnational Crime: Perspectives and Challenges for Sustainable Solutions,” in his capacity as a former prime minister and advisor to the ASEAN Chair.
Thaksin’s latest appearance comes ahead of a June 13 hearing at the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions, which will investigate whether or not his prison sentence was properly enforced.-819 (TNA)