Paetongtarn hits back over Thaksin hospital scandal
Court demands proof as critics cry foul over VIP treatment and unanswered health questions
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra came out swinging yesterday, defending her father, ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra, amid growing backlash over his controversial hospital stay.
Thaksin, now 75, was sentenced to eight years in prison (later reduced to one via royal pardon) after returning from 15 years in self-imposed exile, but instead of doing time behind bars, he was transferred directly to a VIP ward at Police General Hospital.
“I’ve already said this in Parliament, if I told you the truth, would you even believe me?” Paetongtarn snapped when grilled by reporters about claims she’s been hiding details of Thaksin’s condition. “He is truly sick and he has undergone surgery.”
Her comments come as Thailand’s Supreme Court ramps up pressure, ordering Thaksin to testify on June 13 and produce evidence backing his prolonged hospitalisation.
The move follows widespread public scepticism and accusations that the former premier has faked illness to dodge jail time. Critics say the deluxe hospital stint reeks of special treatment for political royalty.
The 38 year old Thai premier dismissed speculation that the legal probe is a power play to shake up coalition politics.
“The court set the date, we must follow due process. I’m sure Thaksin will present evidence to clarify the matter. It will proceed accordingly.”
Asked whether the evidence would silence the critics, the PM was blunt in her reply.
“Even if I speak with clarity, those who don’t believe will still find reasons not to. They’ll always think there’s something behind the scenes.”
She also reflected on her father’s health.
“He’s 75. When he gets sick now, his recovery is slower than before. But we’ve been through a lot. We must stay strong.”
Thaksin’s stay at the Police General Hospital, especially in a VIP ward, has triggered petitions, probes, and political theatre.
Now, the Supreme Court is demanding answers from the Department of Corrections, Bangkok Remand Prison, and the hospital itself, with medical records due within 30 days, The Nation reported.
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