Bangkok: "Jatuporn" believes June 13 will determine the fate of Thai politics. Jatuporn Prompan of the People's Alliance for Democracy group has made a significant revelation to the media about the upcoming court hearing of former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, scheduled for Friday, June 13. According to Jatuporn, this hearing will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Thai politics. He emphasized that if the Minister of Public Health has any objections, they must be raised by May 30. Additionally, the commander of the special prison, the director-general of the Department of Corrections, and the chief physician of the Police General Hospital are required to provide their statements within 30 days. The Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission, the public prosecutor, and the committee investigating state damages must also submit their statements by May 30.
According to Thai News Agency, the court has issued summonses for individuals it wishes to question, including Mr. Thaksin. If he fails to appear, the court retains the authority to conduct proceedings in absentia. Jatuporn highlighted that court considerations of this nature could be completed in one day. He also warned the Ministry of Public Health to be mindful of the Medical Council's previous majority vote on the matter. He questioned what objections Mr. Somsak Thepsuthin could present if he disagreed.
Jatuporn criticized the chief doctor for allegedly lying about Mr. Thaksin's treatment before his transfer to the Police Hospital. He claimed that the prison hospital's report contradicted the chief doctor's statement, as no doctors had examined or treated Mr. Thaksin. Jatuporn argued that the situation was not well-planned, citing the unexpected reduction of Thaksin's sentence from eight years to one year as a source of chaos.
Jatuporn further speculated that Thaksin's potential imprisonment or escape could lead to significant political changes. He warned of a potential political upheaval, likening it to a storm or tsunami. Jatuporn pointed out the constitutional implications of Article 144, which prohibits altering principal, interest, and earmarked funds in the budget. He suggested that any violations could result in politicians being removed from office, disqualified, or required to pay compensation.
Jatuporn also expressed his personal views on Thaksin's history, noting that if Thaksin had faced prison with courage, he would not have fled for 17 years. He urged Thaksin to demonstrate bravery and face his sentence with dignity. Jatuporn questioned the current political landscape, highlighting the unnatural alliance between political factions and the challenges they face in maintaining unity.
Jatuporn concluded by predicting that Ung Ing's political future is closely tied to her father's fate. He suggested that if Thaksin leaves, Ung Ing might follow, raising concerns about political ethics and accountability. Jatuporn emphasized the difficulties of being the Prime Minister of Thailand, likening it to facing execution, and questioned whether leaders would face consequences before or after their tenure.