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 military filed the case stemming 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 will have to appear in court on June 18. The maximum sentence for each royal insult is 15 years in prison.

According to Mr Thaksin's lawyer Winyat Chartmontri, a defense has been prepared and his client will apply for bail. Mr Winyat also questioned the authenticity of the video interview in which the insulting behavior 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 denies 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