On May 8, 2025, at 16:00, Mr. Sarawut Tiangthong, the Minister of Tourism and Sports and Secretary-General of the Pheu Thai Party, addressed the media regarding the Medical Council's decision to impose penalties on three doctors. This decision stemmed from their involvement in the medical treatment of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who was hospitalized on the 14th floor of Police Hospital. Sarawut emphasized that the case concerning Thaksin should not be linked to the Pheu Thai Party or its current leader, Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra. He clarified that she assumed office only after Thaksin was discharged from the hospital, asserting that the matter is strictly a medical issue and not politically motivated.
During the press conference, Sarawut was asked if the Medical Council's ruling would impact public confidence in the government and the Pheu Thai Party. He firmly stated that the case is unrelated to the party and reiterated that it should not be politicized. "This matter is beyond politics. We should examine the judgment and determine the severity of the wrongdoing," he said. Sarawut's remarks came after the Medical Council decided to suspend the licenses of two doctors and reprimand a third for providing inaccurate information regarding Thaksin's critical health condition.
Sarawut also addressed inquiries about Thaksin's recent request to travel to the United States for discussions related to tax negotiations. He mentioned that he had only seen news reports about Thaksin seeking court permission to leave the country. After meeting with Ms. Paetongtarn earlier, they did not discuss Thaksin's legal issues, focusing instead on tourism initiatives, specifically the "Half Price Thailand" campaign.
The Medical Council's decision to penalize the doctors has sparked discussions on the appropriateness of their actions while treating a high-profile patient like Thaksin. The Council found that the doctors had failed to provide accurate medical information, which is crucial in maintaining public trust in the healthcare system. The implications of this ruling extend beyond the individuals involved, as it raises questions about the integrity of medical professionals in politically sensitive cases.
As the situation unfolds, the Pheu Thai Party remains steadfast in distancing itself from the controversies surrounding Thaksin's medical treatment. Sarawut's insistence that the party and its leadership are not implicated in the case reflects a broader strategy to maintain political stability and public confidence amidst ongoing scrutiny.
Meanwhile, the legal proceedings surrounding Thaksin continue to capture the attention of the public and media alike. Thaksin, who is facing multiple charges, was seen arriving at the Criminal Court in a black Rolls-Royce, where he is expected to seek permission to travel abroad for tax negotiations. The outcome of this request remains uncertain, as the court's decision could significantly impact Thaksin's legal strategy and his ability to engage in international discussions.
In the wake of the Medical Council's ruling, political analysts are keenly observing how the Pheu Thai Party navigates this delicate situation. The party's leadership will likely face pressure to respond proactively to any public concerns regarding Thaksin's legal troubles and the implications for their governance.
As the political landscape in Thailand continues to evolve, the Pheu Thai Party's management of this controversy could serve as a litmus test for its future viability. The party's ability to maintain a clear separation between Thaksin's personal legal issues and its political agenda will be crucial in shaping public perception.
Ultimately, the events surrounding Thaksin's medical treatment and the Medical Council's decision highlight the intricate interplay between politics and healthcare in Thailand. As the government grapples with these challenges, the public will be watching closely to see how the situation unfolds and what it means for the future of the Pheu Thai Party and its leadership.
