Bangkok: Paethongtarn Shinawatra and her husband recently visited Thaksin Shinawatra, the former Prime Minister of Thailand, amid growing concerns about his mental well-being. Thaksin, currently incarcerated at Klong Prem Central Prison, is reportedly experiencing stress due to various legal and political matters.
According to Thai News Agency, this visit marked Thaksin’s 18th since his imprisonment two months and 11 days ago. The visit occurred against the backdrop of the Supreme Court’s order for Thaksin to pay over 17 billion baht in taxes related to the sale of Shin Corporation shares. Additionally, there is an ongoing review by the Minister of Justice concerning regulations about Thaksin’s detention conditions, the consideration of special pardons, and his petition for a royal pardon.
Accompanied by Thaksin’s personal lawyer, Winyat Chatmontri, Paethongtarn and her husband arrived at the prison at 9:30 a.m. They were greeted by a group of red-shirt supporters, who showed their support amidst the absence of Thaksin’s other children, Panthongtae and Pinthongtha, who are involved in the Shin Corp. shares case. Expressing gratitude to the supporters, Paethongtarn and her husband proceeded to visit Thaksin.
In an interview, Paethongtarn mentioned that the prison commander had invited Thaksin to participate in the “Dhamma Nam Wang” project, a Buddhist initiative aimed at human potential development. She noted that while Thaksin’s physical health remains good, he might be under mental stress due to the current situation.
The Ministry of Justice and the Department of Corrections are reviewing regulations concerning inmate transfers for treatment outside prison, which could impact Thaksin’s detention. Paethongtarn expressed hope for the process to proceed, noting her father’s advanced age and the benefits of his release.
When questioned about potential political motives to prevent Thaksin’s release ahead of the 2026 election, Paethongtarn indicated her retreat from political affairs to focus on her father’s mental health. She refrained from commenting on the current Attorney General’s appeal regarding Thaksin’s indictment under Section 112 before departing the prison.
The Dhamma Nava “Wang” Buddhist Innovation Project aims to train individuals and agencies in Dhamma principles, enabling inmates to learn, practice, and apply these teachings to alleviate suffering.