International

IIE DIGITAL DESK :  Thailand's former Prime Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, was moved from prison to a hospital less than a day after his return from 15 years of self-imposed exile. The 74-year-old politician began serving an eight-year sentence upon his arrival, but health concerns prompted his transfer to a medical facility.

On August 22, 2023, Thaksin returned to Thailand and was immediately taken into custody to serve sentences for several criminal convictions made in absentia. The following day, he was transferred to Bangkok's Police General Hospital after experiencing high blood pressure, low oxygen levels, and chest tightness. Doctors recommended the move to prevent potential life-threatening complications, citing the prison's inadequate medical facilities.

Thaksin's return coincided with a significant political development. On the same day, his affiliated party, Pheu Thai, secured enough votes in parliament to form a new government, with Srettha Thavisin appointed as the new Prime Minister. This marked the end of over three months of political uncertainty following the May elections. The Pheu Thai party's coalition included pro-military factions, excluding the progressive Move Forward Party, which had won the most votes in the elections.

 Thaksin's health issues were deemed serious upon his arrival at the prison. The Corrections Department reported that he had high blood pressure, low oxygen levels, and chest tightness. Prison doctors recommended his transfer to a hospital to prevent life-threatening risks, considering his age and chronic health conditions, including heart and lung issues.

There has been speculation that Thaksin's return was strategically timed to coincide with the formation of a government sympathetic to him, potentially paving the way for a reduction in his sentence. However, Thaksin has denied these claims, stating that his decision to return was unrelated to the political developments and that he was prepared to follow the legal process.

 Thaksin Shinawatra's swift transfer from prison to a hospital underscores the complexities surrounding his return to Thailand. While his health concerns are being addressed, the political implications of his return continue to unfold, with ongoing discussions about the potential impacts on Thailand's political landscape.