Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has formally submitted a request for a royal pardon, according to Justice Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam, who also serves as the caretaker Deputy Premier.
Thaksin’s return to Thailand on August 22 after 15 years of self-imposed exile has sparked significant attention. He had been living abroad since August 2008 and was subsequently sentenced to an eight-year prison term for corruption charges related to his time in office.
Thaksin’s recent return saw him initially taken to Police General Hospital for emergency treatment due to high blood pressure within 24 hours of entering prison. Reports indicate that he is undergoing treatment for multiple health issues. Wissanu confirmed Thaksin’s current treatment at the hospital.
Wissanu stated that he has received Thaksin’s application for a royal pardon, and further proceedings will follow. However, he refrained from disclosing specifics about the content of the document or whether Thaksin personally wrote it. He emphasized the confidentiality of the matter, considering it a personal issue.
Regarding concerns of preferential treatment, Wissanu dismissed any notion that Thaksin was receiving special privileges from the authorities. He affirmed Thaksin’s right to apply for a royal pardon and emphasized that all actions would adhere to the applicable laws and regulations. (NNT)
