Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who is expected to be arrested upon his return as he ends almost two decades of self-imposed exile, waves at Don Mueang airport in Bangkok, Thailand August 22, 2023.
While abroad, Thaksin was found guilty in absentia in three cases involving abuse of power, conflict of interest and malfeasance.
There was speculation that Thaksin reached some deal with his old foes, after the pro-military parties gave the Pheu Thai candidate Srettha their backing to form a new government.
On his first night in Thailand, Thaksin was transferred to a police hospital with chest pains and high blood pressure where is currently being treated.
"After serving six months of his sentence, Thaksin will be eligible for parole for prisoners older than 70 or those who are ill," Corrections Department Deputy Director General Sitthi Sutivong, told Reuters.
Persons:
Thaksin Shinawatra, Athit, Thaksin, Thailand's, Srettha Thavisin, Srettha, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, Sitthi Sutivong, Panarat Thepgumpanat, Chayut Setboonsarng, Simon Cameron, Moore
Organizations:
Thai, REUTERS, Rights, Corrections, Reuters, Thomson
Locations:
Don Mueang, Bangkok, Thailand, Rights BANGKOK, Thai