Thaksin Shinawatra, a former prime minister of Thailand and a powerful figure in the current government, has been indicted on a criminal charge of insulting the monarchy, sparking fears of a political crisis in the country.
The indictment, which marks the first time such a high-profile figure has been charged with violating Thailand’s strict royal defamation law, has raised concerns about the influence of the royalist-military establishment in the country’s politics.
Despite not holding a formal position in the government, Thaksin is widely believed to have significant influence over the governing coalition, which is led by his political party. Many of his allies hold cabinet positions, further solidifying his power.
The current prime minister, an ally of Thaksin’s, is also facing legal challenges that could result in his suspension from office. The Constitutional Court is hearing cases related to his alleged constitutional violations, as well as a petition to disband the opposition party that won last year’s election.
Thaksin’s legal troubles stem from comments he made in an interview nine years ago, in which he accused the king’s advisory body of engineering a coup. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges and his passport has been confiscated, preventing him from leaving the country.
Thaksin’s return to Thailand last year after 15 years of self-exile was seen as a strategic move to maintain his influence in the country’s politics. His efforts to isolate the opposition party and engage with neighboring countries have raised concerns about his intentions.
The political uncertainty in Thailand has had a negative impact on investors, with the country’s stock index falling significantly in the past year. The situation has highlighted the control exerted by the royalist-military establishment over the country’s political landscape.
Thaksin’s indictment, filed by a former deputy defense minister in the military junta, underscores the ongoing power struggle in Thailand and the challenges faced by those who oppose the establishment. The case against him is expected to drag on for months, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the country’s political future.
