Thailand’s attorney general would charge former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra for allegedly insulting the monarchy, Reuters reported.
The official announced the allegations on Wednesday, a blow to Thaksin, whose supporters were currently in the government. The complaint arose from an interview the political heavyweight gave to foreign media in 2015.
Other charges against him include violating the computer crime law. Spokesperson Prayuth Bejraguna reported that the former prime minister would appear in court on June 18.
The attorney-general has decided to indict Thaksin on all charges.
Thaksin, 74, denies guilt and has repeatedly sworn allegiance to the crown, criticism of which is banned under Thailand’s lese-majeste law. Thaksin’s case will be the most high-profile of more than 270 prosecutions brought in recent years under one of the strictest legislation. It carries a maximum jail term of 15 years for each alleged insult to the royal family.
His lawyer Winyat Chartmontri stated that a comprehensive defence had been prepared and his client would seek bail. He also questioned the authenticity of the video interview in which the alleged insult took place.
According to him, Thaksin did not appear for Wednesday’s hearing due to COVID-19 infection.
We have to proceed based on our rights in a criminal case. Thaksin Shinawatra is ready to prove his innocence in the justice system.
Thaksin is the founder of the strong Pheu Thai Party. His supporters have won all but one election since 2001, when three Shinawatra governments lost power through coups or court rulings.
Returned politician
The billionaire returned to Thailand in 2023 after 15 years in voluntary exile, during which he remained a central figure during repeated bouts of political turmoil. He was previously found guilty of abuse of power and conflict of interest and sentenced to eight years in prison. However, he was released on parole in February after just six months in prison.
Pheu Thai leads the current government. The popular opposition party Move Forward has found itself in trouble over its campaign to amend the law. The constitutional court is reportedly set to order the dissolution of the party, which would result in a ban on its leadership.
Thaksin may seek to exert significant political influence from behind the scenes, critics fear. However, the former prime minister insists he has retired from politics.
