June 1, 2025: A rare battle is unfolding. If, on June 12, at least 47 members of the Medical Council reaffirm its opinion on the Thaksin Shinawatra treatment at the Police Hospital, it will send major shockwaves through the political realm.
And vice versa. If the council, which has 70 members, fails to confirm the opinion that the treatment was suspicious and unethical, critics will say ruling politicians have made professionals know their place.
In fact, the 14th floor controversy is never a “grey” matter. By “grey”, one may think one way and the other the opposite. In this case, everyone knows why Thaksin ended up at the Police Hospital. It is actually a case of whether or not the Thai society, which brings together the public, political apparatus, bureaucracy and professionals, can always accept or always be made to accept what politicians fighting for powers say is acceptable.
It’s a case of whether politicians can go only so far in dictating or influencing public opinions, or the sky is the limit regarding what they can do.
Reports say lobbying has been in full swing. Every vote for or against will be intensely scrutinised in addition to absences. Some council members are entitled to sending representatives to the crucial voting, but representation in case of an absence is apparently not compulsory, meaning some members can probably just skip the session.
Political and ideological battlegrounds keep shifting in Thailand, and a profession long priding itself on noble acts is having its turn.
Daily updates and opinions on local and international events by Tulsathit Taptim
