Former Thai MP returns after 15 years political asylum

Former Thai politician Jakrapob Pemkair returned to Thailand after 15 years of political asylum in Cambodia. Upon his return, he was apprehended due to two remaining arrest warrants but was later granted 400,000 baht bail.

Jakrapob previously served as a government spokesperson under former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra from 2003 to 2005, and later as a minister of the Office of the Prime Minister during Samak Sundaravej’s government between 2007 and 2008.

Jakrapob faced accusations of violating Section 112 of the Criminal Law, also known as the lese majeste law, after delivering a speech in English criticising the culture of patronage in Thailand. This prompted him to seek asylum in Cambodia in 2009.

Jakrapob faced a total of nine arrest warrants, with seven of the cases having lapsed. However, two cases remained, including accusations of involvement in a clandestine society with unlawful aims and in the possession of weapons of war.

In a 2020 interview with the BBC, Jakrapob expressed his distrust in the Thai justice process, which led him to stay abroad and not fight the lawsuits.

However, yesterday, March 28, Jakrapob announced on Facebook that he was travelling to the airport to return to Thailand to face justice. He stated his intention to surrender to the authorities, expressing confidence in gaining freedom and serving the country once again.

Alleged secret deal

Jakrapob arrived at Suvarnabhumi International Airport at about 7am yesterday and was immediately accompanied to the Crime Suppression Division Office.

Jakrapob’s return was suspected to be involved with the return of the former PM Taksin Shinawatra. Some have said a secret deal has been struck, ensuring Jakrapob’s freedom.

In an interview later that day, Jakrapob revealed that he managed to secure bail at 400,000 baht for the two remaining charges. When questioned about the alleged secret deal, Jakrapob clarified his position.

“Calling it a deal sounds like it’s not a good thing. But nothing can not come this far without discussion. Anyway, this discussion was not about the benefits or any kind of exchange. It was about finding common ground in a conflict that has been going on for more than 10 years. The overall political situation is improving, which makes the discussion easier. ”

Jakrapob expressed his determination not to abandon his political career if given the opportunity and stated his intention to assist other leaders of the Red Shirts who wished to return home.