At today’s hearing, the 17th in this case, the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Political Office Holders is also expected to announce the date for its judgement. However, observers viewed that yesterday’s verdict against Jatuporn could discourage Yingluck’s red-shirt supporters from showing up in a great number at today’s final hearing, as had been planned. In addition, General Chalermchai Sitthisart, the Army chief, brushed aside allegations that the military had dispatched personnel to monitor the movement of key Pheu Thai Party figures ahead of today’s court hearing. Chalermchai said no special orders had been issued Army personnel concerning today’s final court hearing. Besides Yingluck, the former commerce and deputy commerce ministers of the Yingluck government are also facing similar criminal lawsuits pending in the Supreme Court.

Source: The Nation Bangkok July 20, 2017 16:41 UTC