Thaksin appears in court on lese majeste charges

Former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra appeared in court to defend himself against accusations of insulting the monarchy.

Former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra appeared before the Criminal Court in Bangkok on 16/7 to address lese majeste charges stemming from comments he made to South Korean media a decade ago, according to his lawyer Winyat Chatmontri.

Thailand's Ministry of Justice indicted Thaksin in 5/2024 for allegedly defaming the monarchy during a 2015 interview with the Chosun Ilbo newspaper in Seoul, South Korea. In the interview, Thaksin suggested that members of the Privy Council, a body of advisors to the King of Thailand, supported the coup that ousted his sister, Yingluck Shinawatra, in 5/2014.

The court will deliver its verdict at 10 a.m. on 22/8, according to Winyat. The decision comes after Thaksin's defense team announced they had presented sufficient testimony from defense witnesses, including Thaksin himself, former deputy prime minister Wissanu Krea-ngam, and former permanent secretary to the prime minister's office Tongthong Chandrans.

When asked about his confidence in a favorable outcome, Winyat expressed his belief that Thaksin would "receive justice". He added that the evidence presented by the prosecution was insufficient, largely consisting of witness opinions.

"I must say that the prosecution doesn't have a single witness who can clearly prove the alleged actions of Mr. Thaksin," Winyat stated.

Former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra in Bangkok on 9/7. Photo: AFP

Former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra in Bangkok on 9/7. Photo: AFP

Around 50 supporters gathered outside the courthouse, wearing red shirts, symbolic of Thaksin's political movement, and bearing his image.

"He is a very talented person," said Vaew Wilailak, 79, a retired accountant.

Thaksin avoided the press upon arrival, entering the court through a side entrance. After the hearing, he rolled down his car window to wave to supporters, prompting cheers from the crowd. His brother-in-law, Somchai Wongsawat, was also present to show his support.

Thaksin has repeatedly stated his willingness to face the charges and maintained his innocence. If convicted, he could face up to 15 years in prison.