Shane Kanjanapach, deputy director-general and spokesperson of the Thailand department of corrections, updated the public on September 11 on former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra's status in prison. He said Thaksin is currently undergoing a 5-day quarantine.

After this period, the department of corrections plans to assign inmates tasks based on their abilities and interests. Thaksin could be assigned as a language teacher, contribute to prison activities, and support fellow inmates' rehabilitation.

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in Bangkok on 9/9. Photo: AP

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in Bangkok on 9/9. Photo: AP

Shane added that Thaksin's physical and mental health are normal. During quarantine, Thaksin has regularly consumed boiled eggs and coffee each morning and slept well. The former prime minister has made no special requests and is housed with other older inmates.

Regarding visitation, the department of corrections has not yet allowed anyone to see Thaksin, including his lawyer. According to prison regulations, a maximum of 10 people listed by Thaksin, such as his wife, children, and close relatives, are permitted to visit.

Thaksin's lawyer, Winyat Chatmontree, also confirmed receiving notification that his client is healthy and in good spirits. Winyat plans to meet Thaksin on 15/9.

Thailand's supreme court this week determined that Thaksin did not serve his prison sentence according to the law in 2023 and ruled that the former prime minister must serve an additional year. He is serving his sentence at Klong Prem prison in Bangkok, one of Thailand's most secure facilities.

Ngoc Anh (Thai Nation, Bangkok Post, Thairath News)