Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been moved to the medical wing of Klong Prem Prison due to health concerns. The 76-year-old politician was relocated on Monday, according to a senior corrections officer who cited his age and chronic medical conditions.
The official, speaking anonymously, did not confirm whether Thaksin is receiving active treatment or undergoing observation.
Supreme Court Ruling Forces Prison Time
Last week, Thailand’s Supreme Court ordered Thaksin to serve a one-year sentence in prison. The decision came after the court ruled that serving his 2023 sentence in a hospital suite was inappropriate.
As a result, Thaksin was placed in a regular prison cell before being moved to the medical wing for health monitoring.
Thaksin’s Tumultuous Political Career
Thaksin, a billionaire telecom entrepreneur, served as Thailand’s prime minister in 2001 and 2005. However, a military coup in 2006 removed him from power and sent him into self-exile.
He returned to Thailand in 2023 and faced an eight-year prison sentence for corruption charges. This sentence was later reduced to one year through a royal pardon. An early release program for elderly inmates has further shortened his remaining time behind bars.
Family Visits and Health Updates
Thaksin’s daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, visited him on Monday after his quarantine period ended. She shared that her father’s head was shaved in accordance with prison rules.
“His health is stable, but he suffers from blood pressure problems caused by stress,” Paetongtarn told supporters after the visit.
Political Influence Under Pressure
The Shinawatra family has long been at odds with Thailand’s royalist establishment. Recently, Paetongtarn was removed from her position as prime minister by court order — a major blow to the family’s political standing and the movement they lead.
No VIP Privileges
Thaksin’s lawyer, Winyat Chatmontree, emphasized that his client is not receiving preferential treatment.
“He does not have a private room or special security arrangements,” Winyat stated. “He must serve his time before he can apply for a sentence transfer, as required by law.”
