The condition of Pheu Thai’s de facto leader and former prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, has shown some improvement since his recent admission to the Police Hospital, though he still requires respiratory support. According to Pol. Lt. Gen. Sophonrat Singharu, the hospital’s chief physician, Thaksin’s health has seen a slight improvement since his arrival, yet he continues to experience shortness of breath. While he is able to communicate, his condition necessitates ongoing medical assistance.
A dedicated team of six doctors is overseeing Thaksin’s care, and to ensure his recovery remains uninterrupted, the hospital has restricted visitation. Any potential transfer to a private medical facility would require the discretion of the Corrections Department. Interestingly, the decision to transfer Thaksin to the Police Hospital was made promptly due to a sudden exacerbation of his health conditions. While his high blood pressure was being managed, the onset of chest tightness and low oxygen levels prompted the transfer.
Sources from the Bangkok Remand Prison have disclosed that Thaksin is currently situated within the medical facility zone of the prison. The decision to detain him in this area stems from his multiple health vulnerabilities. At 74 years old, Thaksin has been diagnosed with heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, and spondylosis.
Recent developments reveal that on August 23, 2023, Thaksin’s case underwent further assessment at the Police Hospital. Maj. Gen. Nakarin Sukonthawit, Commander No. 6, shared updates regarding the former prime minister’s health. Notably, the decision to designate the 14th floor of the Police Hospital as a restricted area underscores the cautious approach taken towards Thaksin’s treatment. This level of care reflects the collaborative efforts of the correctional and medical teams involved.
Thaksin’s admission to the police hospital from prison is a routine procedure, backed by a memorandum of understanding between the correctional and police departments since May 1, 2020. This practice ensures that appropriate medical care is accessible to inmates while maintaining a high standard of medical potential and security.
Key officials from the Ministry of Justice, the Department of Corrections, and Bangkok Remand Prison converged in a joint press conference to address Thaksin’s incarceration. The outlined protocols for receiving new inmates were meticulously followed, encompassing a comprehensive health assessment by doctors from the Department of Corrections Hospital. This assessment identified several critical conditions warranting ongoing monitoring, including heart disease, complications from severe COVID-19 pneumonia, lung-related fatigue, high blood pressure, and spondylosis.
These health challenges have classified Thaksin as part of a vulnerable group of inmates deserving special care. Amidst this, he retains the right to consult with legal representatives and receive visits from family members.
The topic of amnesty for Thaksin has also been broached. Officials clarified that the process of requesting a royal pardon can commence as early as his first day in prison. Thaksin or a family member can initiate the request by submitting relevant documentation to officials at Bangkok Remand Prison. Following this, the papers are forwarded to the Department of Corrections and the Ministry of Justice, ultimately reaching the prime minister for consideration. The final step involves presenting the request to His Majesty the King, with the entire pardon process expected to span 1-2 months.
Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam’s visit to Bangkok Remand Prison on August 23 underscores the significance of Thaksin’s case. As he ensures that established protocols are adhered to, Wissanu emphasized Thaksin’s importance and acknowledged similar visits undertaken in the past to uphold orderliness.
Author: Editorial Staff
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