Bangkok: Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong, Minister of Justice, has addressed allegations regarding former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's treatment at the Police General Hospital, emphasizing that Thaksin's return to Thailand is unrelated to any "devil's deal" involving Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra. Thaksin is receiving medical care on the 14th floor, designated as a special detention center, under doctors' advisement. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is currently investigating any potential misconduct by officers.
According to Thai News Agency, Thawee responded to claims made by MP Rangsiman Rome of the Prachachon Party during a no-confidence debate. Rome had suggested a deal was made to facilitate Thaksin's return and subsequent treatment. Thawee refuted these claims, asserting that Thaksin's case is not linked to Prime Minister Paethongtarn, who assumed office on September 11, 2024, after Thaksin received a royal pardon on August 31, 2024. He criticized Rome's rhetoric as imaginative and clarified that previous political arrangements did not involve any improper agreements.
Thawee further explained that the issue of Thaksin's hospital treatment is governed by medical and legal protocols. The 2017 Constitution mandates medical care for all citizens, and the Corrections Department's regulations allow for hospital treatment when necessary. The hospital is considered a special place of detention, and any escape would be treated as a prison break. Thawee urged against using rhetoric to mislead the public, emphasizing the constitutional rights to medical care.
The Justice Minister also addressed concerns regarding the suspension of Thaksin's sentence, noting that a committee of 10 people reviewed and approved the decision. He reiterated that the treatment of Thaksin is consistent with the standard practices applied to other prisoners. Thawee assured that the NACC is investigating any doubts raised by Rangsiman, and all 143 prisons are adhering to the rule of law.
In response, Rangsiman protested against accusations of being pleased with Thaksin's hospital stays and clarified that his reference to a "devil's deal" pointed to General Prayut Chan-o-cha. He stressed the importance of transparency and rejected any implication that he sought to discredit Pol. Col. Thawee. Rangsiman expressed respect for Thawee but stood by his call for truthfulness in parliamentary discussions.
Pol. Col. Thawee reiterated his commitment to democratic principles, emphasizing that political collaboration is not inherently negative. He expressed a belief that the party with the most votes should lead the government, in accordance with constitutional ideals. The ongoing investigation by the NACC aims to resolve questions surrounding Thaksin's case and uphold public trust in the justice system.