OAG seeks other options to extradite Thaksin

BANGKOK, 12 November 2009 (NNT) – The Office of Attorney General (OAG) of Thailand will submit another explanation letter to the Cambodian government to seek the extradition of ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

Phnom Penh earlier rejected Thailand’s request to extradite Mr Thaksin after it appointed him as economic adviser. Deputy Attorney General, Thaworn Phanichphan, stated that the OAG would carefully consider Cambodia’s reasons to turn down Thailand’s request. He also called for Phnom Penh’s understanding of the Thai government’s actions to bring Mr Thaksin back.

The former PM was sentenced to two years in jail after he was found guilty over the Ratchadaphisek land case.

The OAG’s first letter says Mr Thaksin’s punishments were not politically motivated. He confirmed that the office had treated every side fairly.

The OAG will study further the international treaties and laws of the two countries. The OAG and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will meet again to seek other ways to extradite the former Thai PM.