
Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has testified in court to defend himself against royal defamation charges that could result in a 15-year prison sentence. This development comes just weeks after his daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, was suspended as prime minister by the Constitutional Court. Thaksin’s trial, which began earlier this month, revolves around remarks he made to South Korean media a decade ago. His lawyer, Winyat Chatmontri, stated that Thaksin testified on Wednesday morning and will continue to do so throughout the day.
About 50 Thaksin supporters gathered at the court, wearing red shirts with his portrait, expressing their solidarity. “He is a very talented guy,” said 79-year-old retired accountant Vaew Wilailak. “But from past experience, bad people just want to get rid of him.” Thaksin’s prosecution, combined with his daughter’s suspension, marks a significant blow to the influential Shinawatra dynasty, which has been a defining force in Thai politics for over two decades.
Thaksin returned to Thailand in August 2023 after 15 years in exile, following a military coup that removed him from office. Upon his return, he was sentenced to eight years in prison on corruption and abuse of power charges, later reduced to one year by a pardon from King Maha Vajiralongkorn. Thaksin has affirmed his loyalty to the monarchy and expressed gratitude for the king’s pardon. His daughter Paetongtarn’s suspension stems from a leaked diplomatic phone call discussing a deadly border clash between Thai and Cambodian troops, which led to accusations of her compromising her position by “kowtowing” to former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen.
The recent events have sparked concerns about the future of the Shinawatra dynasty, which has been a major player in Thai politics. Thitinan Pongsudhirak, professor of political science and international relations at Chulalongkorn University, noted that the scandal “became a full-blown crisis” after the leaked call suggested Paetongtarn had compromised her position. Pheu Thai’s coalition has lost key conservative backers, leaving it with a razor-thin parliamentary majority steered by a caretaker prime minister.
Thaksin’s legacy as a prime minister is marked by his populist policies, which helped reduce poverty and introduced universal healthcare. However, his rule was also marred by controversy, including a notorious drug suppression campaign. As the trial continues, the fate of the Shinawatra dynasty remains uncertain, with potential implications for Thai politics.