BANGKOK — Convicted former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was transferred from Bangkok Remand Prison to Klong Prem Central Prison on Tuesday evening to begin serving a one-year sentence, following a unanimous Supreme Court ruling that his previous hospitalization did not constitute lawful detention, Thai PBS reported.

Thai Supreme Court Orders Thaksin Shinawatra to Serve One-Year Prison Term

The Supreme Court’s 5-0 decision earlier in the day declared that Thaksin’s extended stay at Police General Hospital during his initial imprisonment was invalid, ordering the Corrections Department to enforce the full one-year term for abuse of power and conflict of interest convictions.

At approximately 5:10 p.m., Thaksin was seen wearing a light blue prison uniform in a Corrections Department van departing Bangkok Remand Prison. He was the sole occupant in the vehicle and raised his thumb to reporters who shouted questions about his transfer and any message for the Thai people.

Upon arrival at Klong Prem Central Prison, a maximum-security facility, Thaksin underwent standard intake procedures, including a medical examination, fingerprint scanning, and photographic documentation for prison records and ID issuance.

Thai ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra jailed as court rules hospital stay unjustified https://t.co/V1eMWAoyvA https://t.co/V1eMWAoyvA

— Reuters World (@ReutersWorld) September 9, 2025

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul emphasized that Thaksin would receive no special privileges during his incarceration. “He will be treated according to the law, without any interference from the government,” Anutin stated, underscoring the administration’s commitment to judicial transparency.

The transfer marks a dramatic downturn for the 76-year-old billionaire, who returned to Thailand in August 2023 after 15 years in self-exile. His case continues to reverberate through Thailand’s political landscape, symbolizing both the enduring influence of the Shinawatra family and the judiciary’s assertiveness in high-profile cases.

Thaksin Returns to Bangkok Ahead of Supreme Court Verdict

Authorities confirmed that Thaksin’s imprisonment will adhere to standard regulations, with no exceptions for his age or former status. The Corrections Department has pledged full compliance with the court’s directive.

-Thailand News (TN)