The health condition of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra remained a concern since he was moved to the Police General Hospital for medical treatment.
Pol Lt Gen Dr Sophonrat Singhajaru, the head doctor at the hospital, informed on Friday that an echocardiogram and lung tests indicated that Thaksin’s cardiac and respiratory health was concerning, though his blood pressure was consistent.
After a 15-year self-imposed exile, Thaksin returned to Thailand on Tuesday and was promptly sentenced to eight years in prison following a court appearance.
Early on Wednesday, at 12.20am, 74-year old Thaksin was moved from Bangkok Remand Prison to the Police General Hospital due to complaints of chest pain, high blood pressure, and low blood oxygen, as stated by the Department of Corrections (DoC).
Currently, he is put in an intermediate care unit (IMCU) room on the 14th level of the Maha Bhumibol Rachanusorn 88 Phansa Edifice.
Communication with Thaksin is feasible, stated Pol Lt Gen Dr Sophonrat, noting that all medical documentation has been forwarded to Ayuth Sintoppant, the head of DoC. However, the duration of his hospital stay remains undetermined.
Concerning rumours about Thaksin’s move to a private medical facility, the doctor emphasized that such a transfer would not happen, given that the Police General Hospital is fully equipped to cater to his needs unless directed otherwise by the DoC.
Pol Lt Gen Dr Sophonrat made it clear that specifics of Thaksin’s medical care won’t be shared publicly in line with patient confidentiality norms.
“The hospital only has a duty to treat patients and has nothing to do with security or politics,” he remarked.
He added that anyone wishing to visit Thaksin must adhere to DoC guidelines. Meanwhile, Pol Lt Gen Achayon Kraithong, the spokesperson for the Royal Thai Police, informed the media that discussions regarding security measures for such visits are still pending.
In the meantime, the outgoing deputy prime minister and acting justice minister, Wissanu Krea-ngam, addressed inquiries about a royal pardon for Thaksin, noting that he can file a petition during his hospital stay.
In response to queries about Thaksin being relocated to a private medical institution, Mr. Wissanu pointed out that there was no justification for such an action.
