Former Thai Party spokesman Popong Nopari defended former Prime Minister Thaksin Chinnava's parole qualification, emphasizing that this matter is entirely within the scope of responsibility of Thailand's correctional department and should not be included in political issues or over-politicized.
On Saturday, Poppon Nopalit criticized political opponents for mobilizing demonstrators to put pressure on the authorities while inciting public opposition to Thaksin.
Early, Thailand's Supreme Court ruled that Thaksin's original sentence was not properly executed, and the 76-year-old billionaire was sentenced to jail this week.
Some prison officials said Thaksin had been placed in the VIP room of the General Police Hospital for health issues for six months, but the court clearly ruled that his sentence was one year and he is currently serving his sentence at Cronplan Central Prison.
However, Thaksin may still be eligible for house arrest or parole based on age or other relevant regulations. This situation has caused some pressure to submit letters to the Thailand Correctional Services Agency, clearly opposing the early release of Thaksin.
"It is the legal responsibility of the Department of Corrections to consider whether to approve Mr. Thaksin's application for parole." Poppon Nopalit stressed that "if he meets the conditions for parole, he has the right to enjoy the same treatment as other prisoners, and no one has the right to order or pressure the department to favor a person."
He also pointed out that the Weitai Party is no longer in power, has no control over the Ministry of Justice, and cannot interfere with relevant decisions.
"Personal resentment should not be directed at specific individuals, as there are many prisoners who meet the same criteria, all within the scope of parole considerations," added Poppon Noparit.
He mentioned that although Thaksin could have chosen to stay abroad to avoid trial, he still voluntarily returned to Thailand for judicial trial - the former Thai party MP believes that this decision fully reflects Thaksin's integrity and courage.
Popong Nopalit further stated that as the spiritual leader of the Thai Party, Thaksin not only cooperated with the completion of all legal procedures, but even won the respect of his former political opponents.
He clearly disagrees with the statement that "Tatsune was imprisoned and weakened the strength of the Weitai Party", saying that the Weitai Party has developed into a political institution with many capable members and lasting vitality.
He listed many important figures in the party to prove it: including former Prime Minister and Party leader Petton Chinnava, former Deputy Prime Minister Putan Vichayechai, and other members of parliament who have always been committed to the cause of democracy.
In addition, Poppon Nopalit denied the relevant reports that "for the Thai party is on the verge of collapse and members of parliament are preparing to defect", saying that such statements have no basis in fact.
"In fact, the people's support for the Weitai Party is increasing. Thais have always been willing to support vulnerable groups, and they do not like to see anyone being treated unfairly or maliciously targeted." He said, "The foundation of the 'Red Shirt' (the core support group of the Weitai Party) is still solid, and more and more neutral voters are beginning to choose to support us."
