Thai court rules ex-PM Thaksin must serve one year in jail

Thailand's top court has ruled that former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra must serve a year in jail, in a significant blow to the influential political dynasty.

This verdict addresses a previous case where he was sentenced to multiple years for corruption but only spent a few hours in custody due to a health complaint. Now, the Supreme Court has declared that his hospital transfer was unlawful, necessitating his return to imprisonment.

Thaksin, who with his family has long influenced Thai politics since his first election as PM in 2001, is currently facing various political challenges. His daughter, who led the party before being removed recently due to a scandal, reflects the ongoing turmoil within the party.

Following the ruling, Thaksin reassured supporters via social media, expressing his commitment to Thailand despite the loss of physical freedom. He affirmed his resolve to support the monarchy and serve the country's interests.

After being ousted in 2006, Thaksin returned to Thailand in 2023, only to quickly face legal repercussions for corruption and abuse of power, resulting in a lengthened prison sentence eventually commuted to one year.

The ruling has reignited scrutiny over the privileges afforded to Thailand's wealthy, as many believe that the affluent are treated differently within the legal system. Observers noted Thaksin's recent travel and his reappearance in court with confidence and support.

As Thailand navigates this political upheaval, Thaksin's conviction underscores the shifting paradigms of power, with many watching closely how the Shinawatra family will adapt to their current circumstances and the future of the Pheu Thai party.