BANGKOK, Thailand – Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is experiencing mild high blood pressure caused by insufficient sleep, according to the Department of Corrections. His daily routine in prison includes reading, watching television, and light exercise, while supporters continue to gather outside Klong Prem Central Prison to show their solidarity.
Thaksin was admitted to Klong Prem on Sept 9 after the Supreme Court sentenced him to one year in prison for abuse of power during his time in office. He spent five days in COVID-19 quarantine before being moved to the elderly inmates’ and prison hospital ward due to his age—he is over 65. His family has visited twice since, on Sept 15 and Sept 18. His youngest daughter, Paetongtarn “Ung Ing” Shinawatra, said after the most recent visit that her father was suffering from poor sleep, fatigue, and hair loss, as well as elevated blood pressure.
Kanokwan Jiwchueapant, chief of Nonthaburi Provincial Prison and deputy spokesperson of the Department of Corrections, confirmed on Sept 19 that after Thaksin’s family visit the previous day, officials measured his blood pressure and found it slightly high, likely due to lack of sleep. She added that while Thaksin was scheduled to meet with a prison psychologist on Sept 18, the session was postponed to Sept 19. Results of any mental health checks, she said, cannot be disclosed without his consent.
Thaksin’s daily routine reportedly starts at 6 a.m. with bedtime around 9:30 p.m. His breakfast remains the same—boiled or soft-boiled eggs. During the day, he reads, watches television, and takes short walks swinging his arms for exercise.
Meanwhile, prison officials said they expect large gatherings of “red shirt” supporters outside Klong Prem over the coming weekend. On Saturday, Sept 20, at 3 p.m., supporters plan to rally outside the prison gates, followed by a larger gathering on Sunday, Sept 21, at 10 a.m., when groups from 20 provinces are expected to converge to show their support. Authorities have coordinated with local police to manage the situation, as such gatherings have become routine.
Thaksin’s family and legal team are not scheduled to visit again until Monday, Sept 22.
