BANGKOK, March 20 (UPI) -- Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra could be charged with demeaning the king if prosecutors agree with police recommendations made public Tuesday.
Police Chief Sereepisut Taemeeyaves said prosecutors were still trying to determine whether they would proceed with the les-majeste charges against Thaksin, the London Financial Times said. The former prime minister allegedly harmed the dignity of King Bhumibol Adulyadej when he made remarks to taxi drivers, during a radio broadcast and while commenting to supporters waving flags in support of the monarchy.
If found guilty, he could be sentenced to up to 45 years in prison and be banned from Thai political life. Thaksin has been in exile since being ousted recently by military leaders who alleged government corruption.
Meanwhile, the Assets Scrutiny Committee Monday accused Watana Muangsook, a former social development and human security minister, of arranging kickbacks from a housing project, the Bangkok Post reported Tuesday. Watana first will first defend himself before an inquiry panel.
Several government and corporate officials have been charged in a wide-ranging corruption scandal that led to the military coup.
