Thailand’s Supreme Court Orders Former PM Thaksin Shinawatra to Serve One-Year Prison Term

Thailand’s Supreme Court has ruled that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra must serve a one-year prison sentence for improperly fulfilling his 2023 conviction for corruption and abuse of power. The ruling marks a significant legal and political moment in Thailand, as Thaksin, 76, is now expected to report to Bangkok Remand Prison.

Thaksin had initially been sentenced to eight years in prison after his return to Thailand in August 2023 following years of self-exile. His sentence was first reduced to one year through a royal pardon and then further shortened via an early release program for elderly prisoners. However, the Supreme Court has now determined that his hospital stay was not a legal substitute for actual incarceration.

According to the court’s decision, Thaksin must serve the remaining term of his sentence in a prison setting. A warrant for his arrest has been issued, and Thaksin was seen at the court smiling and posing for photographs, flanked by his daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who was recently removed from the Prime Minister’s office.

This ruling comes at a pivotal moment for Thaksin’s political family, which has long been a major force in Thai politics. However, the Shinawatra clan has faced a series of legal and political setbacks in recent years, with the Pheu Thai party — which Thaksin leads — recently ousted from power.

The Supreme Court’s decision was based on an investigation into whether Thaksin’s sentence was properly served. The timing of the ruling is also notable, as it occurred just days after the Pheu Thai party lost its grip on government power.

Thaksin had left Thailand by private jet before the ruling but has since returned to the country. His presence at the court and his apparent calm demeanor during the proceedings have drawn significant public and media attention in Thailand.

The case underscores the ongoing tensions between Thailand’s pro-democracy forces and the pro-military, pro-royalty elite. The Supreme Court’s decision may further complicate the political landscape, as Thaksin’s party continues to face challenges in regaining influence.