Bangkok: Thaksin Shinawatra, the former Prime Minister, appeared at the Criminal Court on Ratchadaphisek Road to testify as a plaintiff's witness in a case involving charges under the Criminal Code, Section 112, and the Computer Act. The Office of the Attorney General 8 has filed the case against Mr. Thaksin for allegedly insulting the institution.
According to Thai News Agency, the proceedings were marked by the presence of Mr. Thaksin's daughter, Ms. Pinthongtha Shinawatra Kunakornwong, and a group of supporters wearing red shirts. The group gathered near the court's exit to express their backing for Mr. Thaksin. Among them was Ms. Pen Pinij-aksorn from Sisaket Province, who held a picture of Mr. Thaksin with a supportive message and a large jasmine garland.
Mr. Winyat Chatmontri, Mr. Thaksin's personal lawyer, addressed the media regarding the suspension of the witness examination. He emphasized the confidentiality of the court proceedings, urging media discretion due to the secret nature of the hearing. He refrained from divulging specific details about the witnesses, citing court regulations.
The court has placed restrictions on attendance, allowing only the legal teams and Mr. Thaksin's representatives. Mr. Winyat indicated that Mr. Thaksin intends to be present for the duration of the hearings, which include the examination of the defendant's witnesses scheduled for July 15-16. Despite inquiries about Mr. Thaksin's state of mind, Mr. Winyat assured that he appeared unstressed and committed to attending the hearings.