Political activists yesterday called on the Royal Thai Police (RTP) to provide an update on the medical conditions of jailed ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra, who has been staying at the Police General Hospital for almost a month.
Thaksin was transferred to the Police General Hospital on the night of his return on Aug 22 after suffering several symptoms, including chest pain, hypertension and low blood oxygen while in quarantine at the prison. The activists, led by Pichit Chaimongkol, lodged a petition with national police chief, Pol Gen Damrongsak Kittiprapas, calling for an update on Thaksin's health conditions and a list of medical specialists treating him.
Mr Pichit said the public wants to know if Thaksin is really ill and in need of special medical treatment and that he is not being given preferential treatment.
The activist noted that Thaksin appeared physically fit when he arrived at Don Mueang airport on Aug 22. When Thaksin's condition quickly deteriorated, as reported, they questioned whether he was really ill and required treatment outside the facility.
"The group will seek a meeting with the Corrections Department's director-general on Friday to inquire about Thaksin's conditions," he said.
Thaksin is being treated in Royal Suite 1401 in the Maha Bhumibol Rachanusorn 88 Phansa Building.
Upon his return, he was ordered by the court to serve eight years in prison over three corruption cases before he was granted a royal pardon, in which his term was commuted to only one year.
A source said Thaksin's lawyer, Winyat Chartmontre, is looking to further reduce the jail time or for early release.