Bangkok: The Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions has conducted a significant hearing concerning the imprisonment of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The court session took place on the 14th floor of the Police General Hospital, where Thaksin is currently receiving treatment. Both the plaintiff’s representative and the defendant’s lawyer attended the hearing as scheduled. This marks the fourth hearing in the case, with the court summoning officials from the Department of Corrections to testify.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Winyat Chatmontri, the lawyer representing Thaksin Shinawatra, disclosed that the court had called upon six witnesses for this session. These witnesses include the Director-General of the Department of Corrections, the former commander of the prison, the director of the Corrections Institution, and the deputy director of the Corrections Institution. Their testimonies focused on the regulations and processes involved when Thaksin was admitted to the Police General Hospital for treatment. The Director-General of the Department of Corrections highlighted the legal considerations and procedures relevant to the case, including the discretion exercised in permitting Thaksin to receive medical treatment outside of prison facilities.

The court allowed interested parties, including media representatives, to attend the hearing. However, media personnel were restricted from bringing recording equipment and were only permitted to listen to the proceedings.

Dr. Warong Dechgitvigrom, president of the Thai Phakdee Party, and Dr. Tul Sitthisamwong, leader of the multi-colored shirts, were also present to observe the interrogation process.