On June 12, Thailand’s Medical Council voted by a two-thirds majority to reaffirm disciplinary action against three physicians who provided medical treatment to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra during his incarceration. The ruling, set to take effect on June 13, confirms earlier disciplinary measures taken over the doctors’ conduct while treating Thaksin at the Police General Hospital’s 14th floor, a location that has drawn scrutiny due to its conditions and perceived privileges.
The council stated the decision was reached through transparent deliberations grounded in academic and ethical standards. The vote comes in response to a previously proposed veto by Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, who expressed concern over how some in the medical community could continue to work with him after overriding his decision. Somsak further suggested that some individuals may have had the opportunity to circulate a note he had distributed regarding the matter.
The case has attracted attention due to Thaksin’s high-profile status and ongoing public debate about equality in the justice and healthcare systems. The disciplinary action, supported by a substantial majority of the council, is intended to underscore adherence to professional norms.
