View Full Version : Thaksin:All Out-of-Love
Pojaman flies out amid asylum reports
Khunying Pojaman Shinawatra, the wife of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, flew to China with her adopted brother and secretary amid rumours that they would seek political asylum abroad.
Pojaman, Bhannapot Damapong and Kanchanapa Honghern left Thailand at 10.40 AM from Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok to Beijing. They were seen to carry several luggages with them. Some of her three children broke down into tears as they saw her off.
The report has been rife that they would seek political asylum after the Criminal Court sentenced the three to three years in jail after finding them guilty of tax evasion worth Bt546 million for the transactions of Shinawatra Computer and Communications shares.
The Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Political Office Holder summons both Thaksin and Pojaman, the defendants in the Rachadapisek land purchase case to give their last testimony on August 22.
Thaksin has been expected to return from China to Thailand on August 10. He left Thailand to Japan on August 1 to give a special lecture.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/07/politics/politics_30080007.php
One might get the impression that this has been deliberately timed with the arrival of US President George Bush as a partial distractor.
Somchai denies asylum reports
Khunying Pojaman Shinawatra, the wife of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, flew to China with her adopted brother and secretary on Tuesday amid rumours that they would seek political asylum abroad.
Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Somchai Wongsawat, Thaksin's brother-in-law said he did not believe Thaksin and Pojaman would seek asylum though he had never discussed with them about their plan. "They are Thai people so they must live in Thailand. Why do they have to seek asylum? I am confident they will not seek asylum,'' he said.
Pojaman, Bhannapot Damapong and Kanchanapa Honghern quietly left Thailand at 10.40 AM from Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok to Beijing on Tuesday. They were seen to carry several luggages with them. Some of her three children broke down into tears as they saw her off.
The report has been rife that they would seek political asylum after the Criminal Court sentenced the three to three years in jail after finding them guilty of tax evasion worth Bt546 million for the transactions of Shinawatra Computer and Communications shares.
The Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Political Office Holder summons both Thaksin and Pojaman, the defendants in the Rachadapisek land purchase case to give their last testimony on August 11.
Thaksin has been expected to return from China to Thailand on August 10. He left Thailand to Japan on August 1 to give a special lecture.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/07/politics/politics_30080007.php
Thaksin, Pojaman to return to Thailand on Sunday
Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife, Khunying Pojaman, will return to Thailand Sunday night.
A source said the couple had booked tickets to return to the kingdom on Thai Airways International's Flight TG615, scheduled to land at the Suvarnabhumi International Airport at 9:45 pm Sunday.
The Nation
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/breakingnews/read.php?newsid=30080116
Thaksin's airport no-show sparks exile speculation
By The Nation
Thaksin and his wife failed to board a late afternoon flight from Bejing to Bangkok on Sunday, sparking wild rumours that the couple might be planning an exile.
Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife; Khunying Pojaman Shinawatra failed to board a Thai International Airway Sunday afternoon flight from Beijing to return to Bangkok as earlier scheduled.
Their no-show sent Thai media outlets scrambling to check flight schedules and fuelling earlier speculation that the couple would never return from their trip to China following a guilty court verdict on Pojaman recently and a looming court ruling the couple in connection with the Ratchadapisek land case.
A THAI official source that the couple did not show up at Bejing airport to board TG 615 flight which left Bejing at 5.35pm Sunday. The flight is scheduled to arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport at 9.45pm.
The next THAI filight is on Monday morning which arrives BKK at noon Monday, which means that even if they will be on this flight, they will miss a schedule to testify in court on 9am.
China Airlines does not have flights that land in Thailand Sunday night. Air China International has a 10.30 pm flight to Bangkok from Beijing.
Thaksin was in Beijing to attend the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympic on Friday.
He is due to return to Bangkok to testify on Monday in a Supreme Court's hearing on the Rachadaphisek land-purchase deal, in which both Thaksin and Pojaman have been accused of abuse of power by taking part in the bidding for land owned by the Financial Institutions Development Fund, a unit of the Bank of Thailand.
Rumours had spread that they might not return home after Khunying Pojaman was sentenced to three years imprisonment for avoiding paying Bt546-million tax. Rumour mill said that they might seek political asylum in a foreign country.
The couple's legal aides and personal spokespersons earlier on Sunday denied Thaksin and Pojaman were planning an exile, saying they would arrive back in time for the testimony. Later Sunday evening, the likes of Pongthep Thepkanchana, Sansanee Nakpong and Sitha Thiwaree did not answer reporters' phone calls.
Reporters on Sunday evening were also trying to confirm reports that Thaksin's children had left Thailand.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/breakingnews/read.php?newsid=30080231
See also previous post on Thaksin Shinawatra & Khunying Pojaman Shinawatra failing to turn up for their scheduled flight back to Bangkok
Supreme Court affirms that it will proceed with Ratchada land case if former PM does not return
A high ranking source within the Supreme Court responded to rumors that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra may not report back to the court processing his involvement in the Ratchada land scandal, saying that the court will continue with the matter nonetheless. The source stated that a clear procedure has been set for proceeding with the case and also commented that speculation should not be placed on whether or not the deposed PM would return.
Reports however have stated that former premier Thaksin has booked a flight out of Beijing and is scheduled to return to Thailand at 9:40 PM today after attending the opening of the Beijing 2008 Olympics.
http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/previewnews.php?news_id=255108100005
See today's previous 2 posts
ASYLUM RUMOURS
Thaksin to seek exile in England?
By The Nation
Thaksin and his wife failed to return to Bangkok on Sunday, sparking wild rumours that the couple might be planning an exile in England.
Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife; Khunying Pojaman Shinawatra failed to board a Thai International Airway Sunday afternoon flight from Beijing to return to Bangkok as earlier scheduled.
People Power Party sources said there were rumours the couple and their children would be seeking exile in England. The sources said it was understood that Thaksin and Pojaman were already on their way to England where they would meet their children. These claims cannot be immediately verified.
Their no-show at the Chinese airport send Thai media outlets scrambling to check flight schedules and fuelling earlier speculation that the couple would never return from their trip to China following a guilty court verdict on Pojaman recently and a looming court ruling the couple in connection with the Ratchadapisek land case.
A THAI official source that the couple did not show up at Bejing airport to board TG 615 flight which left Bejing at 5.35pm Sunday. The flight is scheduled to arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport at 9.45pm.
The next THAI filight is on Monday morning which arrives BKK at noon Monday, which means that even if they will be on this flight, they will miss a schedule to testify in court on 9am.
China Airlines does not have flights that land in Thailand Sunday night. Air China International has a 10.30 pm flight to Bangkok from Beijing.
Thaksin was in Beijing to attend the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympic on Friday.
He is due to return to Bangkok to testify on Monday in a Supreme Court's hearing on the Rachadaphisek land-purchase deal, in which both Thaksin and Pojaman have been accused of abuse of power by taking part in the bidding for land owned by the Financial Institutions Development Fund, a unit of the Bank of Thailand.
Rumours had spread that they might not return home after Khunying Pojaman was sentenced to three years imprisonment for avoiding paying Bt546-million tax. Rumour mill said that they might seek political asylum in a foreign country.
The couple's legal aides and personal spokespersons earlier on Sunday denied Thaksin and Pojaman were planning an exile, saying they would arrive back in time for the testimony. Later Sunday evening, the likes of Pongthep Thepkanchana, Sansanee Nakpong and Sitha Thiwaree did not answer reporters' phone calls.
Reporters on Sunday evening were also trying to confirm reports that Thaksin's children had left Thailand.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/10/politics/politics_30080232.php
See previous 3 posts
Channel 7 News just showed footage at SBIA of Thaksin fans awaiting his return, and then said that Thaksin Shinawatra, Khunying Pojaman & their children were on their way to London with the possibility of a press conference when they arrive there. No other info just yet! Not sure I entirely trust this report anyway.
See previous 3 posts
Channel 7 News just showed footage at SBIA of Thaksin fans awaiting his return, and then said that Thaksin Shinawatra, Khunying Pojaman & their children were on their way to London with the possibility of a press conference when they arrive there. No other info just yet! Not sure I entirely trust this report anyway.
Frontpage is carrying this:
http://www.2bangkok.com
Thaksin statement from London at 9:00 am - 23:01, August 10, 2008
Thai-language media are reporting that Thaksin will be making a statement from London at 9:00 am. This would appear to indicate that he and his family have left Thailand for exile overseas.
Thai PM Thaksin flies to London rather than face corruption charges
By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 6:47 PM on 10th August 2008
http://www.mailonsunday.co.uk/news/worldnews/article-1043322/Thai-PM-Thaksin-flies-London-face-corruption-charges.html
HeadLine News : Political News
Ex- to exile?: Former PM and wife no-shows on THAI flight
BANGKOK, Aug 11 (TNA) – Rumours that ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife Khunying Pojaman may go into exile overseas gained credibility late Sunday night as the couple failed to return to the Thai capital as earlier scheduled.
A source said that Thai Airways International's TG flight 615 on which Mr.Thaksin and his wife had advance reservations for their return from the Beijing Olympics arrived at Suvarnabhumi Airport without the couple on board.
Their failure to appear on the flight disappointed a group of faithful supporters led by ruling People Power Party MP Pracha Prasopdee, who were waiting to meet Mr. Thaksin at the airport.
Mr. Pracha advised the former premier's supporters to return home, saying that the ex-premier might come back to Bangkok Monday morning instead.
However, he later revealed that he was informed the Mr. Thaksin would not return for the time being.
Instead, Mr. Thaksin will issue a statement from London at 9 am Monday stating why he did not go to Bangkok as scheduled, Mr. Pracha said without elaboration.
Earlier, an official airline source said the three Thaksin children -- Panthongtae, Pinthongta and Paethongtan -- departed Bangkok for London on Saturday. It was also noted the the children had been in tears when their parents left Suvarnabhumi for Beijing.
Mr. Thaksin and his wife attended the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics on Friday.
The former Thai prime minister was under obligation to testify Monday morning in a Supreme Court hearing on the controversial Rachadaphisek land-purchase deal.
Mr. Thaksin and his wife have been accused of abuse of power by bidding for the land owned by the Financial Institutions Development Fund, a unit of the Bank of Thailand. (TNA)
Political News : Last Update : 07:24:38 11 August 2008 (GMT+7:00)
http://enews.mcot.net/view.php?id=5685
The Nation seems to have laid off its proofreaders
See also today's previous post
Thaksin makes the right decision if not return"
The country's political scenario could be manageable and clam if Thaksin decides to live in exile, Surat Horachaikul, a lecturer of Chulalongkorn University said on Monday.
He said if he was in the country and the court issued a verdict against him, the country could turn into turmoil because the country is clearly divided into two political camps. Thaksin's supporters would always support him even if he was proven guilty by the court.
People Power Party's Samut Prakan MP Pracha Prasobdee offered the same view as Surat saying Thaksin made the right decision if he did not return to Thailand. "He accepts the justice system but if he does not return then he may have other reasons. Although he had announced he would wash his hands of politics, there has been political harassment against him, his wife and children,'' he said.
Isaan Liberation Front leader Thaikorn Polsuwan said it was certain that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra would not return to Thailand for at least four to five years.
According to Phujadkarn website, Thaikorn made his comment early morning at the rally stage of his ally - the People's Alliance for Democracy. He said a plan had been drawn by several people for Thaksin and Pojaman to seek exile. Former foreign minister Noppadon Pattama was in the team. The legal specialist would find legal venues for exile and could site political reasons to justify his boss's decision.
They study exile cases including Rakesh Saxena who faces embezzlement charges and has lived in exile in Canada almost ten years. Rakesh petitioned Canadian Supreme Court that his life would be in danger if he was sent back to Thailand. The Thai government has failed to seek his extradition.
Thaikorn said another case that Thaksin's team had examined was the case of Roman Abramovich, the owner of Chelsea Football Club and oil tycoon Boris Abramovich Berezovsky. Both support a political party rival to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/11/politics/politics_30080248.php
Lawyer says no contact from Thaksin, wife
A lawyer of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife, Pojama, said Monday the couple had not contacted him yet.
Khamnuan Chalopatham said it was not uncertain whether Thaksin and Pojaman would show up for the trial in the Ratchadapisek land case.
Khamnuan said he would wait until 10:30 am before making a statement to the court.
The Supreme Court's head office is packed with reporters waiting to cover the corruption case related to the Ratchada land purchase against Pojaman and Thaksin.
The Nation
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/breakingnews/read.php?newsid=30080249
See also today's previous 3 posts
Thaksin delays his announcement - source
Ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra who fled to London has delayed his annoucement on his decision not to return home, pending the court's decision in the morning.
Thaksin and his wife; Khunying Pojaman, were scheduled to return to Bangkok from Beijing to testify on a trial against them over the purchase of a Rachadapisek plot of land Monday morning.
A People Power Party MP said Sunday that Thaksin will issue a statement about his decision at 9 am Monday [GMT?].
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/breakingnews/read.php?newsid=30080263
See also today's previous 4 posts
Urgent: Thaksin, Pojaman reach England: aide
Wichit Plungsrikul, a legal advisor of the People Power Party, confirmed Monday that former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife, Khunying Pojaman, had reached England Sunday night.
Wichit said Thaksin's lawyers were meeting to draft a statement to give to the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions.
The couple were supposed to attend the first hearing on the trial of the Ratchadapisek land purchase Monday morning.
Wichit said the statement would be submitted to the court in the afternoon.
The Nation
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/breakingnews/read.php?newsid=30080266
The Supreme Court's head office is packed with reporters waiting to cover the corruption case related to the Ratchada land purchase against Pojaman and Thaksin.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/11/politics/politics_30080265.php
mdechgan
11-08-08, 11:59 AM
I can't believe the Thai people let this square face come back into Thailand to play and leave again.
Pojaman was a convicted criminal sentenced to three years, how did they just let her get on an airplane and leave?
In other civilized countries if someone is charged or even convicted their passports are repossessed and confiscated.
The Thaksin family must be laughing at Thailand now.
See also today's previous 5 posts
THAKSIN'S NO-SHOW
Court may issue warrants
Thaksin and his wife remain "missing", and the Supreme Court says arrest warrants may be issued if there is no good excuse from their side.
Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife Pojaman failed to appear at the Supreme Court this morning, amid rumours they and their children have fled to England.
Mongkhol Thapthieng, vice president of the Supreme Court, said if the couple, who were scheduled to appear at the court this morning as defendants in the Ratchadapisek land case, could not offer good explanation later for missing the hearing, arrest warrants could be issued.
The next flight from Beijing will land in Bangkok around noon.
Thaksin's lawyers were having a tense meeting Monday morning, and nobody could tell for sure if or when the couple would return to Thailand.
Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife; Khunying Pojaman Shinawatra failed to board a Thai International Airway Sunday afternoon flight from Beijing to return to Bangkok as earlier scheduled.
"We will have to consider their excuses for missing the schedules," Mongkhol said. "If there is no good explanation, maybe arrest warrants have to be issued."
People Power Party sources said there were rumours the couple and their children would be seeking exile in England.
The sources said it was understood that Thaksin and Pojaman were already on their way to England where they would meet their children. These claims cannot be immediately verified.
People's Power Party MP Pracha Prasopdee told people awaiting to see Thaksin at Suvarabhumi Airport that Thaksin would not return home Sunday night.
Pracha said Thaksin could possibly come back Monday morning and go directly to the Supreme Court.
Samut Prakarn MP Pracha told the Thaksin supporters they should go home.
Pracha said, somewhat tongue-in-cheek that Thaksin could issue a statement from London why he did not go to Bangkok as scheduled. He did not elaborate.
..........
A diplomatic headache will await Thailand and England if the exile speculation is confirmed, with repercussions spreading as far as the football pitch of Manchester City, a Premier League club bought by Thaksin last year.
...........
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/11/politics/politics_30080239.php
Mr Chusak says ex-PM’s decision to stay abroad may be good for PPP
Minister attached to the Office of the Prime Minister Chusak Sirinil says he does not know whether former premier Thaksin Shinawatra will return to the country to defend himself in court, adding that the People Power party (PPP) may become more unified should Dr Thaksin not return home.
Mr Chusak says he cannot contact people close to the ex-premier to ask whether he will travel back to fight his cases. He also says Mr Thaksin’s request for asylum is a matter of international laws. As for speculations that PPP may face political problems if Mr Thaksin does not return, the minister says the ex-premier’s decision to stay abroad may, on the other hand, strengthen the party.
Mr Chusak states further that the party will be submitting documents to explain its dissolution charge to the Election Commission (EC) on August 13th.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/11/politics/politics_30080239.php
Channel 3 TV News has just claimed that Thaksin Shinawatra & Khunying Pojaman left Beijing for London "the night before last night". :D
Thaksin announces his decision to seek asylum in England
Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra announced his decision to seek a political asylum in England in a faxed statement to NBT Channel
The station read Thaksin's statement at about 11:50 am.
The former prime minister said he had to flee to England because he and his family did not receive justice in courts, which had been interfered by his political opponents.
He said there were also attempts to assassinate him.
The former prime minister said he could not trust in the current political system because the coup makers had retained their dictatorial grip through their proxies.
The Nation
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/breakingnews/read.php?newsid=30080275
"The former prime minister said he could not trust in the current political system because the coup makers had retained their dictatorial grip through their proxies."
The saddest excuse he could come up with. I had expected something with a bit more imagination. So now his wife is basically a fugitive.
Waerth
"The former prime minister said he could not trust in the current political system because the coup makers had retained their dictatorial grip through their proxies."
The saddest excuse he could come up with. I had expected something with a bit more imagination. So now his wife is basically a fugitive.
Waerth
Without doubting for one minute that Thaksin has at times been treated in a shoddy manner, I can't but help remember that a few thousand folks went down in a hail of bullets during his reign - either through design or incompetence. They never even made it through the door of the police station, whereas his wife was out of the door of the court on bail in a trice - and then allowed to leave the country without any great problems.
THAKSIN'S EXILE IN ENGLAND
Today is not my day : Thaksin
By The Nation
Ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra said Monday he decided to go into exile in England because of security threats to him and his family, as well as unfair treatment in the country's judicial system.
In his statement read out on a state-run NBT TV channel, Thaksin said he and his family will remain in exile in England indefinitely and did not say when he would return to the country.
He accused the country's legal system of employing "double standard" in their proceeding with legal matters against him and his family.
The former premier said he and his family have repeatedly received death threats and that they had to travel in bullet-proof cars.
Thaksin said at first he thought the election result of February 23, which saw the People Power Party (PPP), many of whose members came from his now defunct Thai Rak Thai Party, came out victoriously would help "improve the situation".
Therefore he decided to return to Thailand on February 28, thinking that the situation would be favourable and "permits me to prove my innocence."
"But the situation has worsened. What has happened to me is like a poisoned fruits that came from a poisoned tree," Thaksin said.
He claimed there were "intervention in judicial system" that originated from intervention by dictatorship who has hidden agenda to "get rid of me and my family".
"These individuals see me as political enemy. They have no consideration to judicial system, truth and legal principle."
"My family and I have been continuously treated unjustly.
Thaksin apologised to his supporters for having to go into exile and asked them to remain committed to him.
"These are all results of my tireless effort to help the country. I apologise for having to seek relocation to England. I ask that all my supporters to remain with me a bit longer," Thaksin said.
Thaksin said he revealed the whole truth at an appropriate time, saying "Today is not my day."
Thaksin said he and his family remain loyal to the Monarchy "even though some have tried to accuse me of being other wise."
"I may be not a perfect man but I reaffirm that I am as bad as some accused of being. If good fortune were on my side I would like to return to Thailand and die there like all other Thai people.
It was not clear if Thaksin will seek political asylum in the United Kingdom where he owns the Manchester City football club.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/11/politics/politics_30080276.php
2008-08-11 17:00:42
Thai court orders ex-PM Thaksin's arrest
A Thai court has issued arrest warrants for ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife after they failed to appear for a hearing on corruption charges.
The Supreme Court says Thaksin and his wife Pojaman, who face charges in the case of making an unlawful real estate deal while he was in office, must also forfeit bail totaling 13 million baht (US$389,000).
Thaksin and his wife were allowed to travel to China for the Olympics opening ceremony despite ongoing legal proceedings. He issued a statement Monday saying he was not returning to Thailand because he could not get a fair trial.
He said he and his family will live in England, where he has a residence
http://www.axilltv.com/bkpost-2.php?newsid=333607
...........
Thaksin's claim that he and his family face a political threat may be aimed at helping them "fit" the definition on the status of refugees from the 1951 United Nations convention.
The UK is a signatory to the convention (unlike Thailand) and has a long history of recognising asylum seekers who lodge credible claims that they were forced to leave and are unable to return to their homeland because a well-founded fear of persecution because of political opinion, race, religion or nationality.
People who flee to avoid conviction for corruption or other crimes do not qualify for asylum unless there are serious doubts about the independence of courts in the applicant's homeland, or reasonable fears about their well-being if extradited.
In 2006, 17 out of every 100 people who applied for asylum were recognised as refugees and given asylum, according to the UK Home Office.
If Thaksin really wants political asylum he must make an application in person as soon as possible after arriving in the UK.
"If you delay your application for asylum, it may affect your ability to prove your reasons for it," said the UK Home Office guideline.
Applications for asylum can be made at the port of entry or in the case of Thaksin, who has a home near London, he can apply at units that screen asylum seekers in either Croydon (south of London) or in Liverpool.
The asylum process takes about 30 days from the lodging of an application to a final decision.
If Thaksin applied and was granted asylum, his family would obtain legal protection and the right to live and work in the UK for an initial period of five years. His "case owner" would help him and his family build new lives in the country by giving documents and any information they need.
If he applied for but was denied asylum, Thaksin and his family would have the right to appeal and remain in the UK temporarily on humanitarian grounds. In that case, they may be required to comply with certain demands and could be detained if they refused to undertake them.
However, Foreign Ministry spokesman Tharit Charungvat said Thaksin did not need to seek political asylum because he and his family could stay in the UK for some period as an investor or under some other status.
He said the ministry had no information on whether Thaksin would seek asylum.
Meanwhile, legal experts said Thaksin could be extradited back if the Thai government sought his return under the 1911 Siam-Great Britain extradition treaty.
But they said using the treaty may not be an easy way to extradite him as Thai authorities may have to prove he could be prosecuted on similar charges in the UK.
The 1911 treaty allows only 31 legal charges as a basis for extradition. And many matters, such abuse of power related to the purchase of state land by his wife, which is currently being heard by the Supreme Court, are not listed in the treaty or UK laws.
Thai authorities would also have to prove the charges were not political and the UK courts would have full power to refuse extradition for any reason they saw fit.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/12/politics/politics_30080368.php
See also today's previous post
PM declines to comment on arrest warrant for Dr Thaksin
Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej yesterday led his Cabinet accompanied by their spouses to take audience with Her Majesty the Queen to mark the auspicious occasion of Her Majesty's 76th birthday anniversary at the Dusit Throne.
Mr. Samak declined to comment on the issuance of an arrest warrant for former PM Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife Khunying Potjaman who failed to attend a court date earlier yesterday. Minister of Justice Somphong Amornwiwat (สมพงษ์ อมรวิวัฒน) assured that his ministry was not involved in proceedings to do with the case and stated that the Supreme Court will have to contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the matter.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education Somchai Wongsawas (สมชาย วงศ์สวัสด) said that the cancellation of the deposed premier's passport is being considered by relevant agencies and must first have its legality reviewed. He assured that the Supreme Court's decision did not and will not receive any interference from the government.
http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/previewnews.php?news_id=255108110031
The great getaway
By Pradit Ruangdit
Discussions on whether and why Thaksin Shinawatara should go into exile and seek political asylum lasted a month, before a decision was made and plans were finalised.
Thaksin Shinawatra's decision to go back into exile overseas followed two meetings with Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej in the past month, a highly placed source in the People Power party (PPP) said.
The two men discussed ways the PPP could deal with the anti-government sentiment that had intensified since Mr Thaksin's return from his first period of self-exile, the source said.
Mr Thaksin had agreed to meet with Mr Samak and discuss the possibility of his leaving the country again after people close to him several times urged him to stay overseas until the political rifts in the country eased.
People in Mr Thaksin's close circle pointed out that his presence in Thailand had undesirably painted the PPP-led coalition as a nominee government serving his interests, the source said. This image had been the cause of many of the difficulties the government experienced. It could not push through implementation of its policies, Mr Thaksin was told.
Members of the previous government also mistrusted him.
Negative rumours about Mr Thaksin were frequently circulated and he could not control the situation. More importantly, the political rifts between pro-and anti-Thaksin people had turned increasingly violent.
Because of this people around Mr Thaksin suggested that he leave Thailand and live in exile abroad, said the source.
At the two meetings Mr Thaksin discussed his best options with Mr Samak.
People close to Mr Thaksin were informed about two weeks in advance that he would not return to Bangkok to report to the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions yesterday, as required, said the source.
Mr Thaksin had employed a team of lawyers in Britain to make an application for political asylum, the source said. It was believed they had already filed the papers.
The source said it was expected that Mr Thaksin's absence would lead to an easing of political tensions and that Mr Samak would be in sole control of the administration.
Link may expire:
http://www.bangkokpost.com/topstories/topstories.php?id=129537
See today's previous 3 posts
Government seeking exile for citizen 'unjustified'
Foreign Ministry spokesman Tarit Charoongwat on Monday ruled out the possibility of the Thai government moving to seek exile for a citizen, saying it is unjustifiable to do that.
In principle, he said, people, who seek exile in foreign countries, must have sufficient reason to back their claim of being unable to live in their country due to differences of views to the administrative rule or for a security concern.
So, it is unjustified for the Thai government or any governments to seek exile for their citizens because that means they are unable to take care of their nationals properly.
Asked whether the ministry would be informed in case former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra seeks exile in England, he said the matter is up to the discretion of the British Embassy in Thailand.
In accordance with Britain's immigration law implemented by that country's Interior Ministry, officials could not reveal the status of people who go into exile.
"I cannot identify what status Mr Thaksin is using to live in England. One person can live in a particular country under different status such as businessperson and investors.
"So, the ex-premier can live in England in a status other than being an exile," he said.
Mr Tarit said the ministry would not act as a coordinator of Mr Thaksin's exile, adding that what it could do on the matter relies on the court's order.
Asked whether it is necessary for the ministry to seek extradition, he said Thailand and England had a mutual agreement on the matter.
The ministry is ready to liaise with the British government through its embassy in Thailand or the Thai embassy in England if requested by the court and public lawyers, he said.
Regarding news reports that the ministry would confiscate the diplomatic passports held by Mr Thaksin and his wife, Mr Tarit said he had was not yet aware of the matter, but that in principle the court is entitled to revoke or terminate passports of convicted people to prevent them from escaping into other countries.
Mr Thaksin and his wife diplomatic passports were reinstated when his then legal advisor Noppadon Pattama assumed the position of foreign minister. (TNA)
Link may expire:
http://www.bangkokpost.com/breaking_news/breakingnews.php?id=129542
England a 'safe haven' for Thaksin
By Post Reporters
Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife will be granted political asylum in Britain, political analysts predicted after the ex-premier fled to England with his family on Monday.
Thitinant Pongsuthirak, a political scientist at Chulalongkorn University, said Mr Thaksin and his wife opted for exile because they knew they would lose their court cases here.
He predicted Mr Thaksin and his wife would enjoy their exile in the United Kingdom, which is known to provide asylum to those who can prove they were politically persecuted, could not rely on the justice system in their country and were facing threats to their lives.
Chulalongkorn's Chaiyant Chaiyaporn and Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, the rector of the National Institute of Development Administration, doubted Mr Thaksin would end his role in politics despite living outside Thailand.
"Keep a watch on the coming military reshuffle. If his trusted associates are in power, he may come back," Mr Chaiyant said.
Mr Thaksin could still pull strings through former members of the dissolved Thai Rak Thai, he added.
Link may expire:
http://www.bangkokpost.com/breaking_news/breakingnews.php?id=129544
Gen Chavalit says Thaksin's exile can end rifts
(BangkokPost.com) - Former prime minister Chavalit Yongchaiyudh said ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra’s failure to appear before the Supreme Court’s criminal Division of holders of Political Positions on Monday can resolve conflicts in the Thai society.
The idea of forming an interim government is therefore unnecessary, said Gen Chavalit.
Responding to Mr Thaksin’s claim of interference in the judiciary, Gen Chavalit said people need to respect the justice system and His Majesty the King has also granted the judges authority.
The political veteran believed that politics would not likely intervene in this year’s military reshuffle, but asked people to provide supporting information, if they make a claim.
Link may expire:
http://www.bangkokpost.com/breaking_news/breakingnews.php?id=129543
See today's previous 5 posts in this thread
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/12/p1news/images/30080386-01.jpg
[All Photos:The Nation - Ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra and family go shopping in Guildford, England on Monday. He and family have fled to the UK after he and his wife jumped bails on corruption charges.]
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/12/p1news/images/30080378-01.jpg
[An official shows an document which said that Supreme Court has issued arrest warrants for ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife; Khunying Pojaman, for jumping bails.//Pramote Putthaisong]
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/12/p1news/images/30080316-01.jpg
[People watch NBT TV channel which broadcast statement of ex-prermier Thaksin Shinawatra who went into exile in England on Monday. He cited security threats to him and his family and unfair treatment in judicial system as reasons for his decision.]
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/12/p1news/images/30080315-01.jpg
[First page of two-page letter written by ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra which explained why he decided to jump a bail to go into exile in London.]
Text of Thaksin's letter to the media
This is the text of a letter faxed to media outlets in Bangkok on Monday from London by ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra:
Re: The decision not to report to the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions.
First of all, I would like to apologise to the panel of judges presiding over the Ratchadapisek land case and to my supporters for my wife and I travelling to England - a country which upholds democratic principles above all else - and for our failure to report to the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions.
What happened to my family and I, as well as our close associates, was the work of those who wanted me out of politics. There were attempts to take my life followed by a coup. After that, people who were my opponents were appointed to specially handle legal cases against myself and my family and to draft a constitution to prolong the authority of dictatorship. People who directly and indirectly supported the coup were appointed as members of organisations responsible for taking action against me. When there was an election on Dec 23, 2007, most people voted for People Power party candidates who were members of the former Thai Rak Thai to be their representatives.
I thought the situation would improve and that could have been a chance for me to prove my innocence and be given justice and I decided to return to Thailand on Feb 28, 2008. But the situation worsened. What happened to myself and my family was like the fruit from poisonous trees. The fruit was also poisonous. What I mean is that there has been a continuation of dictatorship in Thai politics under the democratic system. That was followed by interference in the judicial process. My cases have been pre-judged, to get rid of me and my family, who are regarded by a group of people as their political enemies, irrespective of the law and international principles of justice. My family and I have been continually treated unfairly.
The interference in the judicial process and the double standards which are clearly apparent have denied myself and my family and others involved of justice. But what is worse is that the long-established credibility and honour of the country's judicial system and related agencies have been diminished. These mechanisms have been exploited politically to the point that neutrality has been compromised, causing the country a great deal of damage.
Moreover, I have been informed that my life is in danger. I needed to travel in bullet-proof vehicles when travelling around. These are the fruits of my devotion to the royal institution and to the country over the past six years as prime minister.
I apologise again for my decision to come to England. I want to assure you that:
1. My family and I are completely loyal to the monarchy and all members of the Royal Family although we have been accused otherwise.
2. Although I am not a perfect man, I can assure you that I am not as bad as has been alleged. When the right time comes, I will tell you everything. Today is not my day. I would like to ask my supporters to be a little more patient.
3. If I have a chance, I would like to return to Thailand and die on Thai soil as other Thais do.
Regards
Pol Lt-Col Thaksin Shinawatra
Link may expire:
http://www.bangkokpost.com/breaking_news/breakingnews.php?id=129545
See also today's previous post
http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/previewnews.php?news_id=255108110031
Tej says he will urgently consider courts' request for revocation of Thaksin's passport
Foreign Minister Tej Bunnaj said Tuesday that he would rush to consider court's request for revocation of foreign prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra's passport once the court submits the request.
He said so far courts and public prosecutors have not asked the Foreign Ministry to take the action yet.
"If a request is made, the Foreign Ministry will give it a top priority," Tej said.
The Nation
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/breakingnews/read.php?newsid=30080392
mdechgan
12-08-08, 04:44 PM
See also today's previous post
http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/previewnews.php?news_id=255108110031
It kinda late for that now. I don't see how it could be so difficult to revoke these passports while other peoples are revoked for far less offenses like bankruptcy.
Yappofloyd
12-08-08, 05:39 PM
Brits on the run from the law come to Thailand and elite Thais on the run from the law flee to the UK!
Brits on the run from the law come to Thailand and elite Thais on the run from the law flee to the UK!
Fancy Gary Glitter as an exchange visitor?:
http://www.angkor.com/2bangkok/2bangkok/forum/showthread.php?t=1345
Thread on Thaksin Shinawatra in his capacity as the owner of the Manchester City Football Club:
http://www.angkor.com/2bangkok/2bangkok/forum/showthread.php?t=2412
More on Tej Bunnag. It would be interesting to know just how deep his allegiance to the PPP, Samak and this coalition government is. It's difficult to say from this distance:
Thaksin's passport at risk once again
Vientiane (TNA) - For the second time since the 2006 military coup, the foreign ministry may lift the diplomatic passport of ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra - now a wanted man after he fled to London on Sunday.
Foreign Minister Tej Bunnag, speaking to the media during an official visit to Laos on Tuesday, said the ministry could take away Mr Thaksin's complimentary diplomatic passport, because the Supreme Court has issued arrest warrants for him and his wife Potjaman. The couple failed to appear at a court hearing in regard to a land purchase case in Bangkok on Monday.
Mr Tej told journalists that the Supreme Court which issued the arrest warrants for the couple on Monday must first officially inform the ministry.
The ministry of foreign affairs has not received information regarding the matter from the court or the prosecutor, he said, adding that ministry officials would need also to review regulations regarding the revocation of diplomatic passports.
The study will be conducted as soon as possible in order to ensure that it does not violate Thai law and the ministry's regulations, Mr Tej said.
Mr Thaksin had his diplomatic passport returned to him by former foreign minister Noppadon Pattama who had previously been the ousted premier's legal adviser.
Ousted in a bloodless coup d'etat in September 2006, Mr Thaksin and his wife failed to appear early Monday at the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions to fight charges relating to the Ratchadaphisek land scandal which occurred in 2003.
The couple flew to London from Beijing after attending the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics held last Friday.
The court later in the day issued arrest warrants for them and confiscated their bail of 13 million baht.
Mr Thaksin has his own residence in England and also bought Manchester City Football Club last year. His status of doing business in the UK raises questions as to whether his extradition is possible.
Mr Tej said he would rather not say that an "obstacle" existed, but ministry officials would need to enquire with the Thai embassy in London, as well as the Home and Foreign offices of the British government as to whether there is a possibility of extraditing the couple to Thailand.
Link may expire:
http://www.bangkokpost.com/breaking_news/breakingnews.php?id=129560
This looks like an extremely rough-cut from Andrew's own site. I have also trimmed some of the stuff readers here will mostly already know:
http://www.andrew-drummond.com/2008/08/12/the-thaksin-debate-did-he-jump-or-was-he-pushed-times-sport/
Was Thaksin Shinawatra deliberately allowed to leave?
From Andrew Drummond
Times Sport
Monday 11th August 2008
Thaksin Shinawatra’s decision to flee to Britain was not only predicted but almost invited and today only his staunchest supporters seemed genuinely surprised in Thailand.
..........
“He was given the chance to leave. His permanent departure would bring an end to a lot of trouble in Thailand. He has massive support but also a section of the population is very angry at what he has done. They even suspect than on his recent trip he smuggled more money out,” a former Thai official at their Embassy in London told me yesterday.
“This is a Thai solution. But it’s not a good one.“
Last weekend it was reported that Pojaman boarded a flight to Beijing with nine cases, if so its of course rather a lot for such an Olympic opening ceremony, now matter how smart one wants to look.
In affect even though Thaksin has massive amounts of money frozen in Thailand nobody really knows his real wealth. If there is one thing he is good at it is moving his assets in and out of countries and banks. He has been acquitted once of concealing his assets, which he claimed was a genuine mistake. Another such charge is in the pipeline.
At the moment he is playing the ‘democracy’ card and he is citing Britain and a wonderful example of such.
Sweet talk? Opponents say that particular card was only dealt him when he was ousted in a military coup in September 2006.
Previous to that he had publicly stated that western styled democracy was not the answer for a country like Thailand and when he was criticised at in the United Nations over misleading the world when he claimed that Thailand did not have bird flu he famously retorted: “The United Nations is not my father.”
Opponents also claim that he was not so concerned about justice when hundreds of innocent people, if not the 2,500 quoted by Human Rights organisation, were injudicially killed in the ‘War against Drugs’ which he initiated in 2003. Nobody went through the courts for those offences perhaps because its a racing certainty that the police were the major offenders.
At any rate Thaksin’s hasty, or long planned departure, believe what you will, was good for the Thai Stock market which rallied on hearing the news of his departure.
It may also put an end to daily demonstrations against him throughout Thailand by the other ’champions’ of democracy the ‘People’s Alliance for Democracy’
At the moment however Thaksin Shinawatra probably needs Manchester City as much as the club needs his money. It is a major conduit of his cult of his personality to the rural people of Thailand, from where his major support comes.
And without the fame and exposure City gives him he could just fade into the background completely as just another oriental politician. There are no shortage of politicians in Thailand in the past, who have allegedly robbed the country and then had to spend a considerable time in exile – until they are forgiven.
Thaksin is not expected to return to Thailand in the near future. As one of his biographers, British academic Chris Baker, noted in Bangkok. “ He has defamed the court. So he has gone for good.”
Judges here are not addressed as ‘My Lord’ but when lawyers address them they usually end the sentence with the equivalent of ‘I am merely dust under your feet’.
The fact is that the judiciary is much the same as when Thaksin was in power . And he made full use of the judiciary to suppress his enemies. Although the investigations against him were done by committees set up by the military rulers who ousted him it was the judges who accepted the cases against him as worthy for trial. Hoisted by his own petard? We’ll have to leave it to other refs.
See also previous post for a report that takes a slightly different line than that taken by the Bkk English Language press
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/12/p1news/images/30080315-01.jpg
[First page of two-page letter written by ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra which explained why he decided to jump a bail to go into exile in London.]
Link may expire:
http://www.bangkokpost.com/breaking_news/breakingnews.php?id=129545
Who Sent Thaksin's Announcement?
Posted by Bangkok Pundit | 8/12/2008 11:00:00
PM Thaksin's handwritten message, which he signed, was faxed from Pullman King Power in Bangkok to NBT at 11.27am. Matichon reports that a source of theirs at the hotel says that Newin gave it to a staff member at the hotel (business center?) to send. (http://www.matichon.co.th/matichon/matichon_detail.php?s_tag=01p0103120851&day=2008-08-12§ionid=0101)Daily News mentions this is the "Gang of Four" hotel and that this was meant to be seen as a sign that there is no conflict between Thaksin and the Gang of Four. BP: That the fax didn't come from England or from Thaksin's spokesman is unusual. So far all we have is Isan Pattana's word that Thaksin is unhappy. If he was so unhappy, why wouldn't he get the fax to come from Isan Pattana?
http://bangkokpundit.blogspot.com/2008/08/who-sent-thaksins-announcement.html
See also 2 previous posts from last night. The last suggests that Newin Chidchob actually sent the fax in which Thaksin announced his asylum bid to the Thai press - and that it was sent from a Bangkok hotel that is said to favor the 'Gang of Four'. :eek:
Thread on Thaksin Shinawatra in his capacity as the owner of the Manchester City Football Club:
http://www.angkor.com/2bangkok/2bangkok/forum/showthread.php?t=2412
More on Tej Bunnag. It would be interesting to know just how deep his allegiance to the PPP, Samak and this coalition government is. It's difficult to say from this distance:
Link may expire:
http://www.bangkokpost.com/breaking_news/breakingnews.php?id=129560
..........
Foreign Minister Tej Bunnag said Sunday their supreme court must officially inform his ministry of Thaksin's flight from the country amid a corruption probe.
The ministry would then begin the process of determining whether Thaksin's diplomatic passport would be voided.
Thaksin is known to have two passports, and the consequences of losing his official passport is likely to be little more than symbolic for the Manchester City owner.
..........
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/13/headlines/headlines_30080428.php
Target: Thaksin
By Post Reporters
Authorities have moved to seize the assets, revoke the diplomatic passports and seek the extradition of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife, Khunying Potjaman, who have skipped bail and fled to London.
The Office of the Attorney-General (OAG) has set up a team to seek the extradition of Mr Thaksin and his wife.
The OAG is also expected to apply for a court order next week for the seizure of the Shinawatra family's assets, worth about 76 billion baht - mostly now frozen at local banks.
Deputy Attorney-General Chullasingh Wasantasingh is likely to head the extradition team, said Kosolwat Inthuchanyong, an OAG assistant spokesman. The application would be made under the terms of the 1911 Siam-Great Britain extradition treaty.
He said the process should not take long because the possibility of seeking the couple's extradition had been examined in depth before they returned to Thailand early this year.
Mr Kosolwat said the authority to seek their extradition rests with the OAG because the couple fled while being tried in court.
"But if Mr Thaksin seeks asylum in Britain it will complicate matters," Mr Kosolwat said.
In a hand-written statement faxed to media outlets, the ousted prime minister claimed he fled overseas because the justice system in Thailand was being meddled with and he might not receive a fair trial.
Deputy Attorney-General Waiyawut Lortrakul, head of the prosecution team in charge of the Assets Scrutiny Committee's cases, said the prosecution had finished drafting the civil suit seeking to confiscate Mr Thaksin's assets.
He expected the case to be lodged with the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions next week.
Mr Waiyawut said the decision to seize the assets was made at a meeting of prosecutors and the National Counter Corruption Commission, which has taken over cases from the now-defunct Assets Scrutiny Committee (ASC).
Before the handover, the ASC charged that Mr Thaksin had dishonestly accumulated wealth while in office.
The ASC, which was disbanded in June, had already frozen assets worth 69 billion baht held by Mr Thaksin and his family members in 16 bank accounts.
Foreign Minister Tej Bunnag said yesterday the ministry will make it a priority if there is a request by the court or the prosecution to revoke Mr Thaksin's diplomatic passport.
So far, the ministry had not received a request or documents relating to warrants for the arrest of Mr Thaksin and his wife, he said.
"The ministry will look into criteria for granting or revoking diplomatic passports when there is a chance to ensure that it properly observes the law as well as the ministry's directives," he said.
Mr Tej said the ministry will consider what actions to take over the extradition process when it has been properly informed of the situation and legal procedures.
Sitthichoke Sricharoen, head of a legal team representing the ASC, said the couple's escape reflects their intention not to fight the charges.
However, they can still defend themselves by submitting their testimony in writing.
He also underlined that the charges against the couple are not political, but criminal.
Dej-udom Krairit, chairman of the Lawyers Council of Thailand, yesterday lambasted Mr Thaksin for attacking the judiciary in his fax.
Mr Thaksin claimed the legal procedures against him were like the fruit of poisonous trees and his cases prejudged.
According to Mr Dej-udom, Mr Thaksin was the poison.
He also urged police to post warrants for the couple's arrests at every port, airport and border checkpoint.
Link may expire:
http://www.bangkokpost.com/topstories/topstories.php?id=129563
See also previous 3 posts
Criminal Court on track for a second arrest warrant for Pojaman
By The Nation
The Criminal Court is scheduled today to convene a hearing which could lead to the issuing of a summons for Pojaman to report herself and confirm her whereabouts relating to the tax evasion case, court clerk Narat Imsuksri said on Wednesday.
The judge in charge of the case will take the judicial steps in reaction to news reports that Pojaman has fled to England and failed to report to the Supreme Court for a separate litigation on the Ratchapisek land case, Narat said.
The judge is expected to summon Pojaman in order to check her bail status, he said. Should Pojaman fail to answer the summons within the deadline, possibly set for September, the judge will then proceed to revoke bail and seize the Bt5 million bond before issuing the arrest warrant, he said.
Pojaman has been released since July 31 pending the appellate review on her conviction for tax fraud. The Supreme Court issued her first arrest warrant for the land case on Monday.
The other two convicts for tax fraud, her brother Bhanapot Damapong and secretary Kanchanapa Honghern, might face a bail review if suspected of flight risk.
The Nation
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/13/politics/politics_30080431.php
Police circulate arrest warrants for Thaksin and Pojaman
By The Nation
The Royal Thai Police on Thursday started distributing two arrest warrants for former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife Khunying Pojaman.
The warrant for Thaksin has the statue of limitations for 15 years and the one for Pojaman is enforced for 10 years.
The Supreme Court issued the warrants on Monday after Thaksin and Pojaman jumped bails and failed to report themselves on the Ratchadapisek land case.
As the two fugitives have fled to London, the next step for police is to coordinate with the Office of the Attorney General to initiate the extradition request, Police spokesman Lt General Watcharaphol Prasanratchakit said.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/14/politics/politics_30080547.php
http://www.2bangkok.com/08/Wanted-Thaksin.jpg
See also previous post on arrest warrants
YEARS OF COURT CASES
The real reason why Thaksin and his family fled?
By The Nation
Published on August 15, 2008
Aside from the Ratchada land scandal, there are three other corruption cases in which ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra is named as a defendant. These involve:
- Exim Bank loans to Burma;
- The two and three digit lotteries;
-The telecoms' excise tax that allegedly favoured Thaksin's former family business AIS.
The Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Political Office Holders has accepted the first two cases for trial. An initial hearing on the Exim Bank loan is scheduled for Sept 16, while the lotteries case is due to begin on Sept 26.
In the first hearing, defendants are required to appear in person. With Thaksin having fled Thailand, the court has three options for further action:
-Postpone the trial;
- Issue an arrest warrant for Thaksin and reschedule the first hearing;
- Temporarily leave the case off its case-list.
The third case on the telecoms' excise tax will be determined on Sept 3, when the court is scheduled to rule on whether the matter should go to trial. The court will also have the same options - postponing the trial, issuing an arrest warrant and delaying the hearing, or deferring the case - if the case goes to trial.
Late last year, when Thaksin and his wife Pojaman failed to appear for the first hearing of the Ratchadaphisek land case, the court ordered the case to be temporarily left off its case-list and issued warrants for their arrest.
Meanwhile, inquiries are being carried out by the National Counter Corruption Commission (NCCC) on:
- The Airport Link procurement scandal;
-Thaksin's source of funds to buy Manchester City Football Club;
-Improper declarations of Thaksin's personal wealth while in office.
There are also joint inquiries by the NCCC and public prosecutors into:
-Bomb scanners bought for the new airport;
-improper loans by Krung Thai Bank.
A major case is also being reviewed by public prosecutors:
At stake is Bt69 billion from the sale of Shin Corp. The case is likely to be handed to the Civil Court next week.
Public prosecutors also need to decide whether to indict Thaksin and Pojaman for concealing their shareholdings in SC Asset.
Finally, Pojaman is expected to be targeted by the Criminal Court for tax evasion, after she was convicted recently for failing to pay tax on a share deal involving her brother.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/15/politics/politics_30080631.php
Wisarut
16-08-08, 02:02 AM
PAD is goign to demostration in frotn of British Embassy on upcoming Tuesday 19 August 2008 - to tell the British governemtn abtou the list of crimes AI Maew and cronies have committted.
http://www.manager.co.th/Politics/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9510000096650
Crioticism toward Ai maew's Lawyers
Shame on these dim-witted lawyers. What were they thinking? Such dirty and ridiculous tactics will never work in an unbiased court. I commend the court for not falling for such stupid ploys. This ruling should cast away doubts and suspicion about the integrity and impartiality of this court.
Legacy
http://www.manager.co.th/Crime/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9510000096539
More about IHT Article abotu Ai Maew:
Inoculating Thailand against one-man rule
IHT 15 August 2008
When the former prime minister of Thailand, Thaksin Shinawatra, flew into London on Sunday night, fleeing indictment and a Monday court date in Bangkok, he illustrated the old saw that the very rich are very different from you and me. Thaksin's wealth and influence allowed him to elude corruption charges back home, enjoy an easeful exile as the owner of the Manchester City soccer club, and prepare the way for a claim of political asylum in Britain.
Thaksin's actions as a fugitive from justice merit attention not merely because he is reputed to be the richest man in Thailand or because of his international notoriety. Until he was removed from power in a bloodless coup two years ago, the media magnate presided over a debased version of democracy, a system that preserved the external forms of popular sovereignty but little of its substance.
Thaksin bought his popularity and the support of the rural poor in Thailand. He purchased or intimidated media outlets. He countenanced extra-judicial assassinations as a tool for waging a highly publicized war on drugs while leaving alone the drug lords in neighboring Burma, who are the source of that trade. He provoked popular protest when he sold his family's 49 percent share in the Shin telecommunications company for $1.9 billion to a Singaporean company and claimed exemption from any capital gains tax. And he is currently fleeing charges that he used his power to secure insider deals on real-estate purchases for family members.
In a self-pitying statement issued from London Monday, Thaksin pretended he could not receive impartial justice from the courts in Thailand.
But his own previous actions belie that claim. Back in Bangkok he had appointed defense lawyers to fight the corruption charges against him, and he recently filed his own lawsuits against critics in those same courts.
Thaksin's allegations about a tainted Thai judiciary and his assertion that the cases against him are political should be seen as transparent attempts to lay the foundation for a claim of political asylum in British courts. To daub a little icing on that cake, he included in his handwritten statement a fear that he could face assassination if he were forced to return to Thailand.
Thaksin ought to be made to answer the charges against him in the Thai courts. A fair and transparent legal process could assure justice in particular corruption cases. It could also inoculate Thailand - and perhaps other countries as well - against the malady of one-man rule by the world's richest media moguls or energy barons.
Khun Suraphonse Cainam said if British Governemnt still keep the fugitive coupes (Ai Maew and e Photjamarn) Thai and British Governent will be strained.
http://www.manager.co.th/Politics/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9510000096634
Mahachamlong said he fed up with thsoe old wiones in the new bottle politicans ... who keep comign back to rape and pillage the Nation.
http://www.manager.co.th/Politics/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9510000096647
PPP on hte Dying bead without doublt alogn with Chat Thai and Machimathippatai.
http://www.manager.co.th/Politics/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9510000096533
Khun Sak Korsaengreuang siad IA Maew's Lawers are tring to apply SMEAR Campaign agianast teh court
http://www.manager.co.th/Politics/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9510000096621
PAD of Udornthaini askign Independent organizations to help them arrest to UDD Mobs since Police are no logner reliable!
http://www.manager.co.th/Local/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9510000096433
Khun Phiphob Thongchai pointout that PPP & UDD men are tryign to raise the fugitive Ai Maew to be the same status as Ajarn Pridi and Ajarn Puay.
http://www.manager.co.th/Politics/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9510000096655
Somkiat Phongphaibun Poitnout that UDD men are tryign to use frayuderline mieans to collect teh signature to sack Coutner corruption COmmittee
http://www.manager.co.th/Politics/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9510000096670
Wisarut
17-08-08, 12:43 AM
The Saturday Commentary by Ekkayut and the Gang
http://thaiinsider.info/space/content/view/10327/23/
76 Billion Baht asset frozen by Asset Committee is just a tip of enormous iceberg ... the Real Asset of AI maew and his family have been laundered and hidden in Swiss Bank Accounts, Banks in London, as well as in other places that allow such clandestine transactions to go ...
This would allso Ai Maew to spin the fake news that he is abotu to be bankrupts so he need to borrow money from the former owners of Manchester City (Mr. Gary Cook) .... but the actual story is that Mr. Gary Cook is the one who has been "hired" to take care of Ai Maew's assets in England. Ai Maew just asked Mr. Gary Cookto take money he has asked him to take care ...
However, the hidden assent outside Thailand has become a boomerang that force Ai maew and Ee Photjamarn to lvie in exle AGAIN. WHen he went abck to Thailand on 28 Feb 2008 he told the press that
"I would be no longer play politicking ... I just want to spent the rest of my life in Thailand and thats' all."
However, when AI maew has to live in Exile AGAIN, he told his Pre Cadet Class 10 peers that
"I Never Want to spend the rest of my life in exile abroad as Pridi DID"
FUrthermore, the farewell annoucement has stated that:
It is NOT my day so i have to live in exile ... My men, please wait for me for a while and I'll be back to Thaioland as a victor!
Even worse, AI Chawarin (AKA Koborin) as told PPP men that:
Our Boss will be back once the sky has changed the color
Thsi is a sure sign that PPP men has evil intention to terminate the life of His Majesty and overthorow Monarchy to isntall the new regime as soon as possible ... despite of the fact that His Majesty has shown merciness to ask Ai maew adn Ee pojamarn to live in exile ... via Ai Samak a few days before the vindictioon has come otu of teh court.
Furthermore, AI Maew and Ee poptjamarn have to use the regular passports instead of tthe red passport. ....
Any attept to majke clandestine transactiosn to PPP and UDD/DAAD men would confrotn with the financial scrunities by Anti Money Laudnering alogn with Revenue Department. ... from both Thailand and Great Britain ... with Direct Order from His Majesty/Her Majesty ...
Oen thign to eb sure, AI Samak ay be pardoned for the past wrongdoring due to the mission to make the final termination of Ai maew regime.
For the cvase of Ai Newin, he is very ingrateful person ... ready to stab the back of thsoe who did brought him up from the abyss ... It is a sure thign that AI newing is abotu to stab the back of Ai maew and Ai Samak as soon as he got the power/moen he has craved for.
For the case of the old left comrades such as Ai Liab, Ai Mink, Ai Uan, Ai Moh WengComrade choocheep, they are no longer heroes who fight for the ideology and utopia as they tried to FOOL oterh people. They have sold theri peers to be butchers by the right wings so they coudl step up by usign the corpses of theri fallen comrades. WHat make them stuck togather is the Suan Kularb ALUMNI of Class 80-90 ... and the inspration of Ai Somsak Jiamthiamsakul who wish to be Thai version of Marx/Lelin/Mao/Hochiminh. Thys just immature adults who want to get quick money at the expense of theri compatriots. It is a sure thign that thsoe old left comrades such will have to run away for the rest of theri life once they have confronted with the Real Men who are ready to turn thsoe old left comrades into piles of ash.
Wisarut
17-08-08, 10:52 PM
http://www.manager.co.th/Politics/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9510000097000
Now Ee Pheen is giving an adbvice gfopr Ai Maew to be back as a victor, it is necessary to overthrow the curretn regime to set up the regime ... while tring to get the supports from gullible Yankees and Red China.
Now many peopel have asked E peen (Kalib) that:
Ee Pheen, you are good at ONLY apply verbal attascking Sakdina [Feuudalism] - not different from AI Thongchai who s also Ameerican Alumni ...
Have you EVER though about the tangible ideologies for fair and square deals such as New Land Redistribution, Better Land Reform, New lad Tax, Inherit Tax, Bank Depotsit tax, better rates of labor wages (paid at 70-100 Baht/hour - single rate nationwide) at alll? Definitely, your have never thoguht abotu these reforms. ebcasue you also benefit for these injustices - not very different than feudal lords tyou are fighting against -> a Hypocrite INDEED!
Be careful Epenn, Ai samak and Ai Pok are goign to wipe out thsoe left wing onmce they got the moeny from the construction of the new Nationjal Assembly at Kiakkai and Ai Samak is going to transfer his power to Big Pok to be the new Prime Minsiter once he thinks that he has to be on retirement.
//--------------------------------------------------
Get Ai maew and Ee photjamarn back is not goign to be easy as British Court has made very different interpretation on this issue ...
However, it will be very hard if not impossible for Ai Make to be a political refugee who are seekign for an asylum ...
http://thaiinsider.info/space/content/view/10338/59/
Wisarut
18-08-08, 07:48 PM
Now, AI Watthana Assawahem (AKA Old Goilden Horse) has been indicted of 10 year in jail for Klong Dan land scandal.
http://www.manager.co.th/Crime/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9510000097522
Stephen Cleary
19-08-08, 11:37 AM
To the right, front page of the Mathichon ridiculing the possibility of Thaksin one day coming back to Thailand to ordain as a monk (remember FM Thanom in 1976)
http://www.pantip.com/cafe/rajdumnern/topic/P6882119/P6882119-10.jpg
Viewing the previous post is CRUCIAL!
Protect Thaksin's dignity, Yaowapha pleads
Yaowapha Wongsawat, the sister of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, called on Premier Samak Sundaravej to protect Thaksin's dignity and honour, as a former national leader, despite his being put on a police wanted list.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/19/politics/images/30080976-01.jpg
[Photo: The Nation - Yaowapa][One can't help thinking The Nation deliberately picked an undignified picture.]
Yaowapha, who holds no official executive post in the ruling People Power Party, still has good connections with many of its MPs, who come from the disฌbanded Thai Rak Thai Party, in which Yaowapha served as an executive.
Before a meeting of the ruling party, Yaowapha met with many People Power MPs who are still loyal to former TRT leader Thaksin, PPP executive Suthin Klangsang said.
Some 200 party MPs and election candidates sent a letter asking Samak to explain the police move in putting Thaksin on the wanted list.
Yaowapha said the politicians were not pressuring the PM but simply acted on concerns by people in their electorates.
"People were really upset when an arrest warrant was issued for Thaksin. They asked the MPs, who simply relayed this concern to the party leader," Suthin quoted Yaowapha as saying.
"The MPs just want to ask the party leader to protect Thaksin's human dignity and his status as a former prime minister - it is not for Thaksin himself," she was quoted saying.
Thaksin's sister said he did not deserve such "humiliating" treatment from the police, as there had been no court ruling condemning him.
Samak, who is also People Power leader, declined to comment on the matter on Tuesday.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/19/politics/politics_30080976.php
Thaksin to seek asylum, says his lawyer
By KESINEE TAENGKHIO,
SAMATCHA HUNSARA
THE NATION
Published on August 21, 2008
Citing malicious treatment as well as a lack of security and freedom in Thailand, ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra will be asking for political asylum in Britain, one of his Thai lawyers said yesterday.
"At this moment, Thaksin's legal team is proceeding to ask for political asylum for Thaksin and his family in Britain," said Watchara Seangprathum.
The request will refer to "malicious treatment in Thailand, where they lack security and freedom", Watchara said.
Thaksin, 59, his wife Khunying Pojaman, 51, and their three children fled to London last week soon after Pojaman was convicted of tax evasion.
Thaksin issued a statement from London a day after his arrival accusing the Thai judicial system of treating him unfairly. He asked his supporters to maintain their loyalty but fell short of saying when he would return to Thailand.
The Supreme Court is trying Thaksin and Pojaman in absentia on corruption charges, accusing him of using his political influence as premier to help his wife buy a plot of prime Bangkok real estate on Ratchadaphisek Road from the central bank at a bargain price.
They each face up to 13 years in prison if convicted. Since the case is before the Supreme Court's Criminal Division of the Political Office Holders, they would have no avenue of appeal. Authorities have already frozen Bt69 billion of Thaksin's assets pending resolution of the case.
In related development, the Supreme Court yesterday issued a summons for a former defence lawyer who is serving a six-month jail term for contempt to testify as a witness in the Ratchadaphisek land case.
Presiding judge Thonglor Chomngam exercised his judicial discretion to hear the testimony of Pichit Chuenban on his involvement in defending Thaksin and Pojaman, both co-defendants and fugitives living in exile in London.
Pichit is expected to take the witness stand tomorrow. His summons was served at the remand prison where he is serving time in connection with a Bt2-million bribery attempt, ruled by the high court as contempt and interfering with the judicial proceedings on the case.
Lead defence lawyer Kamnuan Chalopatham said that following the contempt conviction, the defence had removed Pichit from the list of defence witnesses although the judge deemed it necessary to hear his testimony.
"At this juncture, I am not sure whether Pichit's statement would be in favour of the defence," he said, arguing that everything would depend on the nature of the questions posed by the presiding judge.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/08/21/politics/politics_30081076.php
PM: No policy to revoke Thaksin passport yet
(BangkokPost.com) - Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej said he has no policy to revoke diplomatic passport of ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra, who is currently seeking political asylum in London, as of now.
Mr Samak, speaking to reporters on Friday, said he has not yet discussed the matter with Foreign Minister Tej Bunnag because he has not met him yet.
On Thursday, Mr Tej said he submitted a letter to Mr Samak, asking him to decide whether to revoke diplomatic and ordinary passports of Mr Thaksin after he skipped bail on Ratchadaphisek land deal case and fled to London with his wife Khunying Potjaman.
Link may expire:
http://www.bangkokpost.com/breaking_news/breakingnews.php?id=129845
Yappofloyd
24-08-08, 03:11 PM
I was near the PAD site on Friday and someone has invested in a rather large wanted banner - directly opposite the UN regional HQ;
http://i245.photobucket.com/albums/gg75/yappofloyd/SANY0652.jpg
http://i245.photobucket.com/albums/gg75/yappofloyd/SANY0653-1.jpg
Wisarut
25-08-08, 10:32 PM
AI Maew and Ee Photjamarn found that they have to run away deu to Royal Wrath after failign to answer the question:
Do you still want to be the First Presidetn of Thailand?
However, they has picked up the REAL successor -> Yingluck Shinnawatra -> Ai Maew's younger sister.
Furthermore, they have created feign news to FOOL the public at large and PAD by create "Grang of Four", "Puea Thai Party" alogn with the party splitting.
Even though she is very young, but she is as tricky as his elder brother, ready to supply the Gang of Four along with those Red Guuard with truck loads of silver and golden bullets ... to cut down the opponent in the upcomign election.
http://www.oknation.net/blog/darknews/2008/08/24/entry-1
FYI:
Thaksin & Pojaman Shinawatra & Family
Woodsome Manor
East Road
St George's Hill
Weybridge
Surrey KT13 OLD
http://blog.nationmultimedia.com/anterian36/2008/10/25/entry-2
http://blog.nationmultimedia.com/home/blog_data/4/4/images/thaksin.jpg
Now My postcode starts KT20
So I did a streetmap search, this the result, I have highlighted his road in light blue.
You might notice the yellow "B" road, "Seven hills road" this is just off the A3 which gives a direct link Guildford (about 10 minutes) or London (about 30 minutes) and a few minutes from the M25 ring road.
A nice location with tennis courts and sports grounds nearby, and of course Walton golf course just up the road.
He is a few minutes away from Cobham a traditional English village, and 8 kilometers away from Leatherhead my local town. Perhaps I might bump into him at Tesco's there or perhaps Sainsburys. There is also a pub here run by a Thai family with Thai pub food. He could travel a further 5 Km down the road to Dorking, here he would have a choice of Thai, Indian, Chinese, Mexican plus Traditional English fish and chip or KFC.
He might even visit my immediate location as I live in a famous beauty spot with panoramic views.
So a very good choice of location and plenty to relieve any boredom he might experience.
http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&client=firefox&rls=org.mozilla:en-GB:official&hs=K7x&q=woodsome+Manor+weybridge&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=X&oi=geocode_result&resnum=1&ct=title
The Google link indicates that Ian's map arrow is a bit too far South. Thaksin Manor seems to be North of the Tennis Club.
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_CtzS4MEfoSw/SSUMerQbJWI/AAAAAAAAB_k/21FJ6_kUR2Q/s400/sacrava+noo+1216.jpg
http://sacrava.blogspot.com/
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