Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who returned from exile, has been detained and is being closely monitored due to his vulnerable health and pre-existing medical conditions, including lung, heart, blood pressure, and spinal issues.

Corrections officials told a press conference that Thaksin is being detained in a separate facility to ensure his safety, with staff on duty 24 hours a day, due to his advanced age and medical conditions.

The Department of Corrections will take care of his livelihood, food, and visitations. The 74-year-old former prime minister will also be provided hygienic care to prevent him from falling sick during prison time. Officials asserted that everything is following procedures and that Thaksin is being treated equally to other prisoners.

The former prime minister has pre-existing health conditions, including ischeamic heart disease and pneumonia stemming from a COVID-19 infection. These conditions have left him easily fatigued.

According to a medical assessment today (22 August 2023), Thaksin was also found to have abnormal blood pressure as well as spondylosis which causes him to have chronic pain and irregular balance while walking.

From his health background and a medical check-up, Thaksin is categorised as being in a vulnerable group since he is over 60 years old. He needs to be closely monitored by specialised doctors to receive timely treatment when needed.

Initially, Thaksin will undergo a 10-day quarantine. In the first 5 days, he will be confined to his room and only his lawyer is allowed to visit.

In terms of seeking a royal pardon, Thaksin and his family have yet to submit a petition. However, he can do it from jail immediately. Normally, the process takes around 1-2 months.