Thai Anti-Graft Body Probes Thaksin’s Previous Stay in Hospital Instead of Jail
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- 17 Dec 2024
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On December 16, Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) announced its decision to investigate 12 government officials for allegedly facilitating former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's extended stay in a hospital rather than serving his prison sentence. This investigation stems from accusations that officials at the Department of Corrections and Police General Hospital allowed Thaksin to remain hospitalized in Bangkok for 180 days despite claims that he was not seriously ill.
Background of the Case
NACC Secretary-General Sarote Phuengramphan stated that the commission found sufficient evidence, witnesses, and facts to warrant an investigation into the matter. The NACC has resolved to proceed with the case, with all commissioners responsible for overseeing the investigation.
Thaksin returned to Thailand on August 22, 2023, after spending 15 years in self-imposed exile following the military coup that ousted his government in 2006. Upon his return, he was taken directly to the Supreme Court, which sentenced him to eight years in prison for three corruption cases. However, this sentence was later commuted to one year through royal clemency.
On his first night in prison, Thaksin was hospitalized due to alleged serious health issues. After spending six months in the hospital, he was paroled and discharged in February 2024. He formally completed his one-year prison term on August 31, 2024.
Officials Under Investigation
The following 12 government officials are being investigated for their roles in Thaksin's hospital stay:
- Sahakarn Phetnarin - Director-General of the Department of Corrections
- Sutthi Suthiwong - Former Deputy Director-General of the Department of Corrections
- Chan Wachiradet - Deputy Director-General of the Department of Corrections
- Nasti Thongplad - Commander of the Bangkok Special Prison
- Sophonrat Singhajaru - Police Lieutenant-General and former Chief Physician of the Police Hospital
- Taweesilp Vetchwitan - Police Lieutenant-General and Chief Physician of the Police Hospital
- Chana Chongchokdee - Police Colonel, Medical Officer (Level 5) at the Police Hospital, attending physician, and author of the medical report
- Samart Muangsiri - Police Major-General, Physician at the Police Hospital, and author of the medical report
- Watchai Mingbunjerdsuk - Director of the Corrections Hospital
- Ruamthip Supanan - Physician who examined new prisoners during intake
- Sanya Wonghinkong - Duty Officer at the Bangkok Remand Prison
- Thanpisit Kabuan - Duty Nurse at the Bangkok Remand Prison
Implications of the Investigation
The investigation into Thaksin's hospital stay raises significant questions about the integrity of the Thai justice system and the potential misuse of power by government officials. As the NACC delves deeper into the circumstances surrounding Thaksin's treatment, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for public trust in governmental institutions and the rule of law in Thailand.
This case highlights ongoing concerns regarding political influence and corruption within the Thai government, particularly in relation to high-profile figures like Thaksin. The NACC's actions may be seen as a critical step in addressing these issues and ensuring accountability among public officials.
