Thai Court Drops Charges Against Former Prime Mini | RSS.com
Thailand’s Constitutional Court has dropped charges against former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in a case linked to alleged insults against the monarchy. The ruling, announced on August 22, clears Thaksin of all accusations.
The decision has drawn political reaction in Cambodia. Meach Sovannara, leader of the opposition New Generation Party, wrote on Facebook that Thailand’s move to set aside charges shows a willingness to put aside internal political divisions to unite over the ongoing border tensions with Cambodia.
He argued that Thai conservative forces, including the military and the monarchy, have long sought to weaken the Shinawatra family. Yet, he said, they ultimately allowed Thaksin to walk free at a moment when Thailand faces heightened disputes with its neighbor.
Meach Sovannara questioned whether Cambodian leaders should also put aside internal differences and build unity in the face of what he described as external threats. He asked whether political parties and individuals value power for themselves or loyalty to the nation more highly. He said reconciliation and national solidarity are the only ways to strengthen Cambodia’s position in defending its sovereignty.
He further claimed that some Thai leaders have historically shown hostility toward Cambodia and expressed that national unity is vital to confront any future pressure from abroad.
Meanwhile, Seng Vannly, a regional geopolitical analyst, also commented online that Thailand’s political balance is shifting. He suggested that changes are now possible without the need for military coups, but warned that Thai democracy remains fragile.
Seng Vannly said the court’s ruling has opened space for pro-monarchy and military-aligned groups to regain influence through judicial means rather than through force, marking what could be an important turning point in Thailand’s political landscape.
