Thai Court Sends Former Prime Minister Back to Jail Over Hospital Stay Ruling

A Thai court has ruled that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra must return to prison after finding his extended stay in a hospital unlawful.

Thaksin, who served as Prime Minister from 2001 to 2006 before being ousted in a military coup, has been living in Thailand under close legal and political scrutiny. He was originally sentenced for corruption and abuse of power, but his imprisonment has often been marked by controversy, including claims of preferential treatment.

The latest ruling came after concerns were raised that Thaksin had been allowed to remain in hospital far longer than necessary, sparking public debate about fairness in the justice system. Many Thais questioned whether ordinary prisoners would be granted the same treatment.

This decision reflects a wider struggle in Thailand between powerful political families, the courts, and the military-backed establishment. Analysts say the case is not just about Thaksin’s health but also about whether the rule of law applies equally to all citizens, regardless of status or influence.

For ordinary people, the ruling sends a mixed message: while it may restore some faith in equal justice, it also highlights the ongoing divisions in Thai politics. What happens next will likely shape how much trust citizens place in the country’s institutions.