Bangkok: The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has been urged to expedite the case involving former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s stay on the 14th floor of Police General Hospital and bring charges against those involved. The NACC aims to prosecute individuals linked to the case, with Thaksin potentially facing 157 counts of supporting civil servant misconduct. Delays in prosecution could impact the possibility of a suspended sentence if penalties are increased.
According to Thai News Agency, the Student and People’s Network for Thailand Reform (SNRN), along with the Dharma Army, led by SNRN core leader Mr. Phichit Chaiyamongkol, visited the NACC to follow up on a complaint aimed at prosecuting individuals who aided Thaksin’s release from prison. These individuals allegedly facilitated his admission to the 14th floor of the hospital. Mr. Phichit met with the NACC Assistant Secretary-General, who is overseeing the case, in a meeting that lasted approximately 30 minutes.
Mr. Phichit reported that the NACC has made progress by copying the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions’ verdict and interviewing over 10 witnesses, reducing the total from 30 to 20. He anticipates clarity, as the investigation is linked to other cases involving Thaksin. Additionally, the NACC is investigating two more politicians connected to Thaksin’s hospital stay, which lasted over 120 days but not more than 180 days. The investigation details remain confidential to avoid affecting the trial.
Mr. Phichit emphasized the urgency of the situation, indicating that if Thaksin’s case results in additional charges under Section 157, his punishment could increase beyond the current one-year imprisonment. The NACC’s indictment could lead to a harsher penalty for aiding violations under Section 157. This would disqualify Thaksin from privileges like permission to clean drains, as he would be considered a repeat offender. Mr. Phichit expressed concerns that delays in the process could allow Thaksin to claim rights that might reduce his sentence to six months, whereas an increased sentence would extend beyond this period.
Mr. Phichit expects the NACC to complete its work in about two months, urging them to expedite the process. Once the NACC finishes, the case will be forwarded to the Attorney General for consideration and indictment, with a processing timeframe of no more than 180 days. Mr. Phichit is concerned about potential delays, as this could extend the process by another six months.