Legal stakes rise for Thaksin in PGH case

Doctor penalties may impact June inquiry

- MONGKOL BANGPRAPA

The Medical Council of Thailand's (MCT) decision to discipline three doctors involved in former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s stay at the Police General Hospital (PGH) is likely to negatively impact an upcoming hearing on the controversy, according to political pundits.

Earlier this week, the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions launched an inquiry into Thaksin’s detention at the PGH due to concerns the prison sentence may not have been adequately enforced.

Days later, the MCT announced disciplinary action against the three doctors — one was given a formal warning, while the other two had their medical licences suspended for providing inaccurate medical information and documents.

According to MCT vice president, Prof Dr Prasit Watanapa, the disciplinary action against the doctors will be forwarded to Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, who serves as the president of the MCT's special committee, for further consideration and final approval.

Olarn Thinbangtieo, a political science lecturer at Burapha University, told the Bangkok Post yesterday that the MCT’s decision will have legal implications for Thaksin, who is ordered by the court, along with all agencies concerned, to submit details and evidence to the court for deliberation.