A senior official from Thailand's Department of Corrections confirmed on 15/9 that former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra had been moved to the prison's medical treatment area "due to his age and underlying health conditions." The official did not specify whether Thaksin was undergoing treatment or if the transfer was a precautionary measure.

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

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

Thaksin's daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, along with her mother and sister, visited Thaksin in prison today. They were the first to see him after he completed the mandatory quarantine period.

After about 30 minutes, Paetongtarn informed reporters and Thaksin's supporters outside the prison that he had his head shaved according to prison regulations.

"My father's health is good. He is experiencing some blood pressure issues, but it's normal for people to be stressed in prison," Paetongtarn said.

Paetongtarn Shinawatra visiting her father at Klong Prem prison on 15/9. Photo: AFP

Paetongtarn Shinawatra visiting her father at Klong Prem prison on 15/9. Photo: AFP

Thaksin's lawyer, Winyat Chatmontree, said it was "not the right time" to file a request for his client to serve his sentence outside prison. Winyat added that the former prime minister did not expect any special treatment in prison, such as enhanced security or a special cell.

Thailand's Supreme Court previously determined that Thaksin had not served his prison sentence in accordance with the law back in 2023 and ruled that he must serve the remaining one year. Thaksin is serving his sentence at Klong Prem prison in Bangkok, one of Thailand's most secure facilities.

Shane Kanjanapach, deputy director-general and spokesperson for the Department of Corrections, previously said they were considering assigning Thaksin to teach languages to other inmates.

Ngoc Anh (AFP)