Thai prosecutors announced on Wednesday that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra will face indictment for defaming the monarchy. This comes three months after his release on parole for other charges. Thaksin's original indictment appointment was postponed due to his reported COVID-19 diagnosis, with a new appointment set for June 18. In addition to the lese majeste charge, Thaksin will also be indicted for violating the Computer Crime Act.
The lese majeste law, which carries a penalty of three to 15 years in prison, has been a subject of controversy due to its perceived harshness and alleged political use to silence government critics. Thaksin, ousted by a military coup in 2006, faced accusations of disrespecting the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. His return to Thailand in 2021 to serve a corruption-related sentence reignited political tensions between his supporters and opponents.
Thaksin's lawyer expressed confidence in a strong defense, citing ongoing preparations since the submission of the defense statement. Concerns were raised about the evidence used in the case, with suggestions of possible manipulation of video footage. Since his release, Thaksin has remained active in public engagements and is believed to wield influence in the current government.
Analysts speculate that Thaksin's resurgence in influence may have triggered the indictment as a means to control his activities. The recent death of an activist jailed on a lese majeste charge has reignited calls for a review of the judicial process for political offenders accused of nonviolent offenses.
The ongoing legal proceedings against Thaksin underscore the complex political landscape in Thailand and the enduring tensions surrounding issues of monarchy and governance.
