Bangkok: The Ombudsman has initiated a 30-day deadline for relevant agencies to provide explanations regarding the decision to send Thaksin Shinawatra for treatment on the 14th floor of the Police General Hospital. Mr. Somsak Suwansujarit, the Ombudsman, expressed confidence that all involved parties would cooperate promptly, emphasizing that the process should not take long.
According to Thai News Agency, the case was forwarded to the Ombudsman by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), urging a lawsuit with the Administrative Court to nullify the order allowing Thaksin’s treatment at the Police Hospital. The Ombudsman has already received the petition and is informing the Department of Corrections and other relevant agencies to clarify the situation in accordance with legal criteria. The aim is to forward the case to the Administrative Court within the 30-day timeframe. Depending on the findings, a meeting may be convened to further discuss the matter.
Mr. Somsak stated that the details of the petition will determine whether the order to transfer Thaksin to the Police General Hospital can be invalidated. While no additional evidence from the NHRC has been provided, the Ombudsman is seeking more information to ensure a comprehensive review. The Department of Corrections, the Corrections Hospital, and the Police General Hospital are initially involved in the case. Any overlapping issues will be assessed together.
Addressing concerns about potential cooperation issues, Mr. Somsak noted that the matter is of public interest, leading him to believe that relevant agencies will collaborate. He highlighted the constitutional and legal obligations for agencies to cooperate, which have typically resulted in good compliance in the past.
In response to questions about possible pressure due to public interest in the Department of Corrections’ decision-making, Mr. Somsak emphasized that the process depends on factual complaints and relevant laws, ensuring no undue pressure and a satisfactory conclusion.
Regarding the necessity of inviting the Department of Corrections for clarification on regulations about sending prisoners for external treatment, Mr. Somsak said invitations would depend on the sufficiency of available information. The report indicates that, besides a doctor’s opinion, court permission is essential before transferring Thaksin to the Police General Hospital, a responsibility of the relevant agencies.