Supreme Court Ruling:
Thailand’s Supreme Court has ordered former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to serve one year in prison for abuse of power.
The conviction stems from a 2008 case involving a conflict of interest in a telecom deal while he was in office.
Thaksin had previously been sentenced in absentia but returned to Thailand in 2023 after 15 years in self-exile.
The ruling comes amid rising tensions within the Pheu Thai Party, which Thaksin founded.
His daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is now Prime Minister-elect, and the verdict could complicate her transition and coalition-building efforts.
Supporters gathered outside the court in Bangkok, some chanting slogans in favor of Thaksin’s legacy.
Authorities have increased security around key government buildings to prevent unrest.
Analysts suggest the ruling may embolden opposition parties and military-aligned factions.
ASEAN observers are watching closely, as Thailand’s political stability affects regional economic and diplomatic dynamics.
(source Reuters)
—Agencies
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