Thaksin Shinawatra Flees Thailand Ahead of Court Ruling
Thailand’s former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has left the country on a private jet just days before a significant court ruling that could result in his imprisonment. His departure on September 7, 2023, raises questions about whether he will return to face the verdict. This move coincides with critical political developments, as Thailand’s parliament is set to select a new prime minister on September 8.
Thaksin, 76, had been living in self-imposed exile for 15 years following his ouster in a 2006 military coup. He founded the Pheu Thai Party, which is now widely expected to lose power in the upcoming parliamentary vote. His daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, was recently removed from office amid an ethics scandal, further complicating the family’s political legacy.
Departure Triggers Speculation
The former prime minister announced through social media that he intended to travel to Singapore for a health check-up but encountered delays at immigration. His private jet took off from Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport shortly after 19:00 local time, following confirmation from authorities that there was no court order preventing his departure. Flight tracking indicated his plane, a Bombardier Global 7500, initially headed towards Singapore but then redirected to Dubai due to time constraints at the Singapore airport.
Thaksin stated, “Since landing in Singapore was no longer possible, I decided to have the pilot change course to Dubai instead, because in Dubai I have my regular orthopedic doctor and pulmonologist.” He expressed intentions to return to Thailand for a Supreme Court ruling scheduled for September 9. However, his sudden exit has led to speculation that he may not return.
Political Landscape Shifts
Thaksin’s history in Thai politics is marked by both influence and controversy. After being ousted, he spent years avoiding prison sentences related to corruption charges that he claims were politically motivated. Despite his absence, Thaksin remained a significant figure in Thai politics, often perceived as a puppet master behind the scenes.
In 2023, he made a dramatic return to Thailand where he was briefly detained. Following a royal pardon from Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn, his prison sentence was reduced to one year, but he ultimately spent his time under medical care rather than in a traditional prison setting, raising concerns about preferential treatment.
This latest court ruling is crucial as it will determine whether the time he spent in the hospital counts as time served. If the verdict is unfavorable, Thaksin could find himself facing imprisonment once again.
As Thailand approaches a pivotal moment in its governance, the political landscape is shifting. The Pheu Thai Party faces a daunting challenge in the upcoming parliamentary vote. With its candidate for prime minister, Chaikasem Nitisiri, in the running, the party is up against the Bhumjaithai Party led by Anutin Charnvirakul. This election marks the third prime ministerial selection in three years, following the recent removal of Paetongtarn due to an ethics breach.
Thaksin’s departure adds a layer of complexity to these developments, as the Pheu Thai Party navigates a changing political environment marked by competition and potential alliances. The outcome of the parliamentary vote could signal a new direction for Thailand, particularly as the political influence of the Shinawatra family appears to be waning.
With the potential for early elections and constitutional reforms on the horizon, the political uncertainties surrounding Thaksin’s situation and the future of his party remain a focal point in Thailand’s evolving political narrative.
