Former Prime Minister Thaksin prosecuted again

Thailand's Justice Ministry said it would prosecute former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra for allegedly insulting the monarchy. The lawsuit filed by the military stems from an interview Thaksin gave to foreign media in 2015.

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra at Don Mueang Airport, Bangkok, Thailand, August 22, 2023. Photo: GUARDIAN

According to Reuters, Justice Ministry spokesman Prayuth Bejraguna said the Justice Minister had decided to prosecute Mr. Thaksin on all charges, adding that the former prime minister would appear in court on June 18. The maximum sentence for each charge of insulting the monarchy is 15 years in prison.

According to Mr Thaksin's lawyer Winyat Chartmontri, a defence has been prepared and his client will apply for bail. Mr Winyat also questioned the authenticity of the video interview in which the insult was allegedly made.

Mr Thaksin, 74, returned to Thailand in 2023 after 15 years in exile. He was later convicted of abuse of power and conflict of interest and sentenced to eight years in prison, but was released in February after just six months in custody. He has denied any wrongdoing and has repeatedly pledged his loyalty to the monarchy.

HUY QUOC

Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/cuu-thu-tuong-thaksin-lai-bi-truy-to-post742175.html