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THAILAND’S Supreme Court has ordered former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra to serve a one-year prison sentence, ruling that his six-month stay at a hospital following his return from exile did not count as time served.
CNN reported on Tuesday that the 76-year-old billionaire and ex-premier, who was convicted in 2023 of corruption, abuse of power and conflict of interest during his administration, had previously avoided incarceration by claiming poor health. He spent his sentence in a VIP suite at Bangkok’s Police General Hospital, citing high blood pressure and low oxygen levels.
Thaksin, who led Thailand from 2001 until his ousting in a 2006 military coup, returned from 15 years of self-imposed exile in August 2023. Although initially sentenced to eight years in prison, his term was commuted to one year by King Maha Vajiralongkorn. He was subsequently granted parole in February 2024, having never set foot in a prison cell.
On Tuesday, however, the Supreme Court ruled that his hospitalisation had been unlawful. The panel found Thaksin “knew or was aware that his medical conditions could have been managed as an outpatient, without the need for prolonged inpatient care.”
“The defendant benefited from remaining in the hospital without having to return to custody at Bangkok Remand Prison until his eventual release,” the court stated.
The nature of Thaksin’s detention had drawn significant criticism and fuelled speculation of political interference. Many analysts believe his return was part of a negotiated deal with Thailand’s conservative and royalist elite, potentially exchanging leniency for political neutrality. Thaksin has denied such claims.
In June, Thailand’s Medical Council suspended two doctors for issuing false medical documentation in support of his extended hospital stay. A prison doctor was also reprimanded for breaching referral standards.
Responding to Tuesday’s verdict, Thaksin released a statement on social media saying he accepted the court’s decision. “Today I choose to look forward, letting all past matters come to a resolution. Though I may lack physical freedom, I still have the freedom of thought for the benefit of the nation and people.”
His daughter and former prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, told reporters: “My father and our family remain holding high spirits.” She added that the Pheu Thai Party would continue to fulfil its political role in opposition.
Outside the court, supporters gathered in quiet solidarity. “I am so sad today,” said Oy, 64, wiping away tears. She credited Thaksin’s universal healthcare policy with saving her husband’s life.
Thaksin was in court to hear the ruling. Days later, he reportedly flew to Dubai—his longtime base during exile—for a “health check-up,” prompting speculation about whether he would return to serve his time.
The judgement comes as the third legal blow in quick succession for the Shinawatra family, whose political dominance over the past two decades has often clashed with Thailand’s powerful establishment. Less than two weeks ago, Paetongtarn was removed from office by the Constitutional Court over an ethics violation stemming from a leaked phone call with Cambodia’s former leader.
Despite electoral success since 2001, the Shinawatra dynasty has frequently found itself thwarted by court rulings and military interventions. Thaksin’s sister, Yingluck, was ousted by a court in 2014, while his brother-in-law also briefly served as prime minister.
Many believe the family’s influence is now in steep decline. Last week, Pheu Thai was removed from power, with veteran politician Anutin Charnvirakul elected by parliament as Thailand’s third prime minister in two years. Anutin, who championed the legalisation of cannabis, was formally endorsed by King Vajiralongkorn on Sunday and has since formed a new government.
Thailand now stands at a political crossroads, with the once-dominant Shinawatra brand facing its most uncertain future yet. - September 9, 2025
