Thaksin Shinawatra Faces Indictment for Alleged Monarchy Insult
Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is set to be indicted for allegedly insulting the monarchy, a serious charge in Thailand. The influential politician is required to appear before the court on 18 June, facing other charges as well.
The complaint against Shinawatra was filed by royalist military leaders who ousted his sister’s government in 2015. Despite denying the accusations and affirming his loyalty to the crown, Shinawatra plans to seek bail for his defense.
Speculation arises from his recent return from exile and brief detention, sparking rumors of a possible deal with rivals, which his allies deny. The Pheu Thai Party, led by his daughter, holds a majority in Thailand.
The news of Shinawatra’s indictment comes after MP Chonthicha Jangrew was sentenced to prison for a speech at an anti-government protest. Other protest leaders and participants are also facing charges under Thailand’s strict lese majeste law.
This development adds to the ongoing crackdown on dissenting voices in Thailand, with approximately 270 people, primarily students, targeted under this provision.