Bangkok: The court convened the initial hearing for the plaintiff's witnesses in the case against Thaksin Shinawatra under Section 112 of the Criminal Code and the Computer Crime Act. The case revolves around an interview given by the former Prime Minister to foreign media in 2015. Thaksin, accompanied by his lawyer, appeared at the Ratchada Criminal Court to participate in the witness examination process.
According to Thai News Agency, the Office of the Attorney General 8 has filed the lawsuit, citing offenses related to lese majeste and the Computer Crime Act. The court has scheduled three consecutive days for witness examinations, with the plaintiff presenting 10 witnesses and the defendant 14. The process aims to verify the credibility of the interview clip provided to Korean media, with today marking the first session.
The Ratchada Criminal Court witnessed a significant media presence, eager to cover the high-profile case. Former Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat expressed his support for Thaksin, while former Minister of Tourism and Sports Sermsak Pongpanich also attended, refraining from media interactions.
Thaksin's lawyer, Mr. Winyat Chatmontri, outlined the court's plan, revealing a schedule that includes seven witness examinations, which could conclude before the final date depending on proceedings. The plaintiff commenced the process with three witnesses, while the defense lawyer conducted cross-examinations.
Mr. Winyat emphasized Thaksin's commitment to attending all court appointments, given his current bail status. He mentioned that trials in absentia are generally reserved for cases with penalties under 10 years, but exceptions could arise.
When questioned about potential mistranslations in the interview, Mr. Winyat confirmed that the clip would soon be scrutinized for credibility and evidence collection methods. The court's discretion is crucial in determining whether the defendant committed the charged crimes and if sufficient evidence exists.
A group of individuals wearing T-shirts bearing the Thai flag and a message supporting national integrity gathered, hoping Thaksin would notice their display. At around 9:10 a.m., Thaksin arrived at the court in a black and silver Mercedes-Maybach, entering discreetly to join the courtroom proceedings.