bangkok: Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong, the Minister of Justice, has expressed his readiness to furnish information to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) following their request for the medical records of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra during his stay at the Police General Hospital. Thawee emphasized adherence to legal regulations and noted that the Ombudsman holds a differing view from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), suggesting a channel to contest the case. He declined to comment on whether a secret meeting took place with 'Big Joke' on the 14th floor. According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Col. Thawee clarified the involvement of the Ministry of Justice and the Department of Corrections in the matter, asserting their willingness to cooperate within legal boundaries. He highlighted that societal misconceptions may arise concerning the definition of a prison, explaining that ministerial regulations consider hospitals and other detention facilities as locations for confinement. Thi s aligns with amendments made during the NCPO era, aimed at addressing prison overcrowding and promoting behavioral development. Thawee stressed the importance of legal principles in ensuring detainees receive necessary medical transfers and treatment equivalent to a prison environment. Thawee expressed confidence that the Corrections Department would provide evidence of Thaksin's continuous presence in the hospital, affirming his confinement without any unauthorized absences. He addressed inquiries regarding the utilization of police hospitals for detainees, noting that approximately 70,000 detainees are transferred to outside hospitals annually, with cases varying widely in duration and frequency. Despite differing opinions from the NHRC and the Ombudsman, Thawee emphasized the Ministry's commitment to transparency and legal compliance, while suggesting the need for legal amendments if inconsistencies are identified. Thawee also remarked on the lack of reports regarding a meeting between Pol. Gen. Surache t Hakpal and Thaksin. He reiterated the Corrections Department's adherence to regulations concerning visits, assuring that requests for evidence are handled according to legal protocols. He highlighted the significance of evidence over verbal assertions, underlining the Ministry's dedication to lawful practices. Regarding the contrasting conclusions drawn by the Human Rights Commission and the Ombudsman, Thawee indicated that the latter's examination of witness testimonies could potentially benefit the Corrections Department in the ongoing case. He pointed out that the Human Rights Commission did not conduct a thorough examination of opinions, whereas the Ombudsman did, potentially influencing the legal proceedings.
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