Thaksin Shinawatra to Face Prosecution for Insulting Monarchy
In a recent development, former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra is set to be prosecuted for insulting the monarchy, as announced by the attorney general’s office in Thailand. This decision stems from comments made by Thaksin almost a decade ago.
Background
Thaksin Shinawatra, a two-time premier who was ousted in a 2006 coup, returned to Thailand last year after spending 15 years abroad. His return coincided with his Pheu Thai party assuming power in a coalition government.
Legal Proceedings
According to Prayuth Pecharakun, spokesperson for the attorney general, Thaksin is scheduled to appear in court on June 18 to address charges under Thailand’s strict lese-majeste laws. The attorney general’s decision to indict Thaksin for insulting the monarchy marks a significant development in this case.
Thaksin’s lawyer, Winyat Chatmontree, has expressed readiness to challenge the charges and is determined to prove his client’s innocence within the justice system.
Legal Environment in Thailand
Thailand is known for having stringent royal defamation laws that safeguard King Maha Vajiralongkorn and his immediate family. Each charge of lese-majeste carries a potential prison sentence of up to 15 years.
Previous Legal Challenges
This is not the first legal battle Thaksin has faced. Upon his return to Thailand last year, he was detained on charges of corruption and abuse of power dating back to his time in office. Despite being initially sentenced to eight years, the king reduced his sentence to one year, and Thaksin was granted parole earlier this year.
Thaksin has since made several public appearances following his release from prison.