Adjusting to prison life
Thailand’s ex-prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, 74, has reportedly settled into prison surprisingly well. Police Lt. Shane Kanjanapach, deputy director of the Thai Corrections Department, revealed that Thaksin begins his day with a simple breakfast: two boiled eggs and coffee.
Remarkably, the billionaire politician has requested no special treatment. Officials describe him as mentally stable, cooperative, and ready to integrate into the prison community. He is currently serving a mandatory five-day quarantine for all new inmates.
From politician to teacher
Once quarantine ends, a committee will assess Thaksin’s skills. With his excellent English—honed through studies in the US and UK—he is considered ideal for the prison’s teaching program.
“These programs are part of our rehabilitation efforts,” said a prison spokesperson. “We aim to use inmates’ time constructively so they can acquire new skills.”
Thaksin could thus benefit personally while passing on valuable knowledge to fellow prisoners.
Family visits to resume
Thaksin’s lawyer, Winyat Chartmontree, confirmed that family visits will begin on September 15, once quarantine concludes. Up to ten relatives can visit simultaneously. Chartmontree praised Thaksin’s positive adjustment:
“He is taking his situation with remarkable composure and is ready to contribute to the prison community.”
A model for rehabilitation?
Thaksin’s potential role as an English teacher highlights a broader trend in Thai corrections toward education and resocialization rather than purely punitive measures. Experts note that successful programs could inspire similar initiatives across other prisons.
“Education is key to rehabilitation,” said a criminal justice expert. “If even a former prime minister teaches behind bars, it sends a powerful message.”
Thaksin’s transformation from the country’s most powerful politician to a prison teacher is dramatic—but could serve as an example for the future of rehabilitation in Thailand.