In a twist that could only be concocted in the ever-dramatic world of politics and business scandals, the tale of Apichart Jansakulporn—more famously known as Sia Piang—has taken yet another unexpected turn. Apichart, once a key player in the rice-pledging saga who found himself buried beneath a 48-year prison sentence for corruption, has seen the prison bars part after serving a mere seven years. The Department of Corrections (DoC) verified his release on October 9, pointing to severe health issues that apparently necessitated his freedom. Now, he’s trading the confines of prison for the sterile walls of Ramathibodi Hospital, with nary an electronic monitor in sight.
Initially put behind bars in 2015, Apichart’s case revolved around a fiasco concerning government-to-government rice sale deals laden with corruption. His daunting sentence was whittled down to just over 12 years thanks to multiple royal pardons—a gesture that undoubtedly adds a juicy layer of speculation and intrigue. Currently, his formal sentence end date stands at the horizon of July 27, 2034.
The storyline doesn’t end there. The skeptical and ever-watchful eye of former Democrat Party MP Watchara Phetthong has raised red flags over the transparency of Apichart’s early exit from prison. Mr. Watchara brought this peculiar conclusion to the attention of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, insisting on a comprehensive probe into the DoC’s decision-making process. He’s petitioned for a public report within a brisk 15 days, demanding accountability from any officials who played a role in this seemingly preferential treatment.
The silence of the DoC has only fueled the fire, and Mr. Watchara wasn’t shy to criticize them for sidelining public interest in a matter that had spectacularly and negatively impacted the state’s coffers. He also threw a probe into the legality and financial follow-through of Apichart’s release, questioning whether he had squared up the hefty 16.9-billion-baht compensation—and that’s before considering the accrued interest—jointly owed by defendants in the scandal.
This saga follows a string of similar early releases of high-profile figures embroiled in the same melodrama. Earlier, we observed with bemused eyes as former commerce minister Boonsong Teriyaphirom, another key culprit sentenced akin to 48 years for his antics, was pardoned after a seven-year reprieve. His deputy, Poom Sarapol, initially condemned to a 36-year spell, also found the taste of freedom in September. Speculation runs rife amongst observers who can’t shake off the belief that these releases are strategic chess moves leading to a larger, politically-charged endgame—perhaps smoothing the runway for the controversial return of former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra.
This is an absolute travesty of justice. How many more corrupt officials are going to walk free before the public does something about it?
It’s not just about doing something, it’s about powerful figures pulling the strings. This is just another example of the elite getting away with everything.
Exactly! They make these royal pardons seem legit, but we all know what’s really happening behind the scenes.
But what if his health concerns are legitimate? Would you really want him wasting away in jail if he’s genuinely ill?
Honestly, Joe, health issues are convenient excuses. When was the last time you heard of a small-time criminal getting off for ‘health reasons’?
Watchara Phetthong is doing the right thing by demanding transparency. If there’s nothing to hide, then why the secrecy?
Could it be there’s a larger political scheme at play here? These early releases are too coincidental not to be part of a bigger plan.
Definitely, Karen. It seems more like a game of chess, with powerful players making their moves in preparation for something huge.
If this guy had robbed some ordinary shop, would his health issues matter? Of course not! It’s all about who you know.
Good point, Jim! The justice system should be equal for all, regardless of status. It’s a complete joke right now.
It just seems fishy to me. Are we really supposed to believe these early releases aren’t setting up something bigger?
More importantly, where is rightfully owed compensation? Apichart should be held accountable until every last baht is paid.
Totally agree! The financial repercussions of his actions shouldn’t be swept under the rug just because he’s out of jail.
We’re witnessing a cycle of corruption with these pardons. Can anyone honestly say they’re surprised by all of this?
I think it’s worth noting the silence of the DoC. They’ve certainly got their reasons for keeping things under wraps, but what are they hiding?
They probably know they’re in for a grilling if the truth comes out. People have a right to know the full story here.
Cynicism aside, if Apichart’s health is truly bad, we can’t really justify keeping him locked up. The situation needs transparency, though.
You know, I wonder how much impact public pressure will truly have on getting to the bottom of all this.
Public pressure seems to be the only thing that might make any difference. Otherwise, we’re stuck with whatever narrative they decide to spin.
It just seems too convenient for multiple high-profile figures to all suddenly get pardoned for ‘health’ reasons.
Let’s be real, there’s always been a different set of laws for the rich and powerful, regardless of where you are in the world.
Truer words never spoken. If it wasn’t so tragic, it would be funny in a twisted way.
Just when you think things can’t get any more corrupt, they somehow do. I feel bad for the citizens who deal with this daily.
Right? It’s past time for reform, but that change seems like a distant dream.
If other countries are watching, what’s their take on how Thailand handles these scandals? Probably shaking their heads in disbelief.
This really seems more like a political chessboard rather than a real justice system. It’s infuriating to see these corrupt officials go free.