Former Thailand PM, Thaksin Shinawatra, Jailed Upon Return from 15-Year Exile

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been incarcerated upon his return to the country after 15 years in exile. The 74-year-old politician arrived on Tuesday morning, August 22, via a private jet, ahead of the upcoming election to select the next Thai leader.

Despite a warm reception from hundreds of devoted “red shirt” supporters who had gathered to welcome him, Thaksin refrained from personally acknowledging most of them. Upon reentry, he was swiftly sentenced to an eight-year prison term based on past criminal convictions that he alleges were politically motivated.

Following his return, Thaksin was immediately brought before the Supreme Court, where he received an eight-year sentence related to three prior convictions. Subsequently, he was transferred to Bangkok Remand Prison. Due to his advanced age, prison authorities have designated a wing with specialized medical equipment for him. Additionally, he will undergo a mandatory 10-day quarantine, with the first five days confined to his room.

The Supreme Court issued a statement indicating that Thaksin will serve an eight-year sentence. However, speculations have arisen that his reappearance in the country coincides with his party’s potential return to power, leading to suggestions that a deal might result in a reduced sentence or even a pardon. His age is also expected to factor into any potential leniency.

Regarded as Thailand’s most successful elected leader, Thaksin Shinawatra has long been a concern for conservative royalists who have pursued military coups and contentious legal actions to diminish his influence, as reported by BBC.