• Skip to main content
  • Skip to header right navigation
  • Skip to after header navigation
  • Skip to site footer

Thailand Travel ADVICE

Thaizer Thailand

Thaizer

Thailand news, tips & advice

  • Home
  • Start Here
  • About
    • Contact
  • Blog
  • Destinations
  • Do’s & Don’ts
  • Events & Festivals
  • Weather

Former Thai PM Yingluck No-Show at Supreme Court

25 August 2017

Former Thai prime minister, Yingluck Shinawatra, was scheduled to appear at the Supreme Court in Bangkok today to hear the verdict in a controversial case that has been brought against her. The charges relate to a rice subsidy scheme established during her time in office. A guilty verdict could have seen her jailed for 10 years and permanently banned from politics. But in another twist in Thailand’s complicated political scene, the former Thai leader didn’t show up for her court appearance. Lawyers for Yingluck said she was unable to attend because she was ill and requested a delay in the ruling. The court refused, seized Yingluck’s 30 million Baht bail bond and subsequently issued an arrest warrant for her. In the meantime, the verdict has been delayed until September 27. Throughout the trial, Yingluck has maintained her innocence and says she is a victim in a political game. As the drama unfolded, news reports began to file through suggesting that Yingluck had left the country. Deputy PM Prawit Wongsuwon confirmed it was possible Yingluck had already left Thailand but denied suggestions that she may have been aided by security officials.

Yingluck Shinawatra became Thailand’s first female prime minister after leading the Pheu Thai party to a resounding election win in May 2011. She was ousted from office by a separate legal ruling in May 2014 and also found guilty of negligence by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). A few weeks after that, the military seized power in a coup and have held power in Thailand ever since. Yingluck’s older brother, Thaksin Shinawatra, was also prime minister of Thailand. He was removed from office by the military coup of September 2006. Thaksin now lives in self-imposed exile abroad and faces prison if he ever returns to Thailand.

Update September 27:
The Supreme Court ruled that Yingluck was guilty of criminal negligence and sentenced her in absentia to five years in prison. Latest reports suggest the former Thai PM is in Dubai.

Category: 2017 News

Book your Thailand transport

Powered by 12Go system

About Roy Cavanagh

Roy Cavanagh is a former stand-up comedian who now works as a freelance writer and website designer. Passionate about Thailand and Thai culture, Roy is also the editor of the online magazine, Fan Club Thailand.

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube

Sidebar

Compare Thailand accommodation

  • Central Thailand
  • East Thailand
  • North Thailand
  • South Thailand

About Thaizer

Thank you for your interest in Thaizer. My name is Roy Cavanagh and I’ve been fortunate enough to live in Thailand and travel to every region of the country over a number of years. Thaizer.com is where I share my knowledge and experience with you. Just like any destination, Thailand has its good points and its bad points and I try to offer honest and practical advice.

Read MORE

Recent Posts

  • Bangkok’s new train station: Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (Bang Sue Grand Station)
  • Thailand Entry Rules
  • Thailand news: January 2023
  • HRH Princess Bajrakitiyabha
  • Visa rules for tourists travelling to Thailand
  • How to buy Thailand train tickets online
  • Public Holidays in Thailand, 2023
  • Chiang Mai City Pillar Inthakin Festival

Where to Go

When to Go

Plan your trip

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Copyright © 2023 · Thaizer · Privacy Policy