She is being prosecuted in connection with the rice-pledging scheme that her administration carried out during her term. She also pleaded with the court to base its ruling on the law as well as legitimate evidence and witness testimony. Yingluck took a seat at the podium in the centre of the room facing the bench and read her closing statement in a firm voice. ‘Beneficial public policy’The rice-pledging scheme did not damage the national budget as had been alleged, the former prime minister argued. Rather, it had contributed greatly to the macro-economy, she said, adding that the public policy had been meant to serve the people, not maximise profits.

Source: The Nation Bangkok August 01, 2017 18:00 UTC