Bangkok: The court has scheduled a hearing for the 14th-level case against Thaksin Shinawatra on September 9th at 10:00 a.m., ordering the Bangkok Special Prison commander to be present.

According to Thai News Agency, preparations for Thaksin’s return to Thailand were acknowledged by Wisanu, who pointed out three factors necessitating special detention. He mentioned meeting Thaksin once on his first day, unrelated to the royal pardon request.

The Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions has organized a hearing regarding the mandatory imprisonment of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, currently receiving treatment on the 14th floor of Police General Hospital. The Public Prosecutor and the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) are filing the case, with Thaksin as the defendant.

Today’s session marked the seventh and final hearing of the trial. Mr. Wissanu Krea-ngam, former Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Minister of Justice, was the sole defense witness, testifying at 9:30 a.m. The hearing lasted about 35 minutes, with Mr. Wissanu questioned on various issues, including the preparations for Thaksin’s transfer documented in his memorandum, initiated before Thaksin’s return to Thailand.

Mr. Wissanu prepared legally and on-site to assess the readiness of detention facilities for potential scenarios. He had previously prepared in vain due to rumors of Thaksin’s return, finally confirmed for August 22, 2023. Mr. Wissanu acknowledged Thaksin’s need for special detention due to his former prime minister status, security concerns, and illness.

At one point, Mr. Wissanu revealed Thaksin’s request for treatment at a private hospital, which he opposed, insisting on government hospital care. He was informed of Thaksin’s transfer to the Police General Hospital only on August 22, 2023. Mr. Wissanu confirmed meeting Thaksin at Bangkok Remand Prison on the same day, noting his anxiety and exhaustion.

The NACC questioned whether the practice and patient transfer for treatment outside prison adhered to ministerial regulations. Mr. Wissanu stated it was unrelated, as he became Acting Minister of Justice in 2023. He clarified no involvement in Thaksin’s royal pardon request, learning about it after the royal command on September 1, 2023.

The 14th-level hearing is now complete. The court has scheduled the next hearing for September 9, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., summoning the Bangkok Special Prison Commander and Thaksin, as the court requires time to review the evidence.