Arrest Warrant Looms for Thaksin if Absent at Supreme Court

Bangkok: Announced on June 13, an arrest warrant will be issued against Thaksin Shinawatra if he fails to appear at the Supreme Court. Chanchai Issarasenarak and Somchai Saengkaew plan to submit additional case documents concerning the 14th floor on May 29. They emphasized the necessity of Thaksin's presence at the court on June 13. Lawyer Nokhao criticized the minister who invited Thaksin to discuss solutions for drug problems, despite past controversies.

According to Thai News Agency, Lawyer Nokhao addressed the collaboration between Mr. Jatuporn Prompan and Mr. Sonthi Limthongkul, noting it as a move to address national issues rather than directly opposing the government. Nokhao stressed the need for public sector involvement to solve these problems, suggesting the Thaksin regime should be dismantled if it proves detrimental. He highlighted the need for discussions on the country's direction, criticizing politicians for failing to address key issues.

In response to inquiries about Thaksin's recent actions, Lawyer Nokhao criticized ministers and cabinet members for inviting Thaksin to discuss drug suppression, citing ethical concerns. Nokhao questioned the ministers' conscience and urged them to consider whether involving Thaksin would benefit the country. He emphasized that the public and many political parties have moved beyond Thaksin's influence, criticizing the Pheu Thai Party for reintroducing him into political discourse.

Lawyer Nokhao further expressed confidence that if Thaksin attends the Supreme Court hearing on June 13, the court could make a decision based on existing evidence and testimonies. However, should Thaksin provide a valid reason for absence, the court might consider postponing the decision. Nokhao stressed that if Thaksin does not attend, an arrest warrant is inevitable.

Mr. Chanchai Issarasenarak, a former Democrat MP, highlighted the importance of Thaksin's presence at the court to defend himself. He pointed out that relying solely on lawyers and documents would weaken Thaksin's case, urging Thaksin to seize the opportunity to present his defense in person.

Mr. Somchai Saengkaew, a former Senate member, revealed plans to submit additional evidence related to the 14th floor case. This evidence includes detailed records of Thaksin's treatment at the Police General Hospital, contradicting claims of critical illness. Somchai emphasized that the evidence suggests non-critical conditions and expressed concern over Thaksin's absence from court, which could trigger an arrest warrant.