Pattaya news ,travel , health ,sports - FORMER THAI PM THAKSIN PLEADS NOT GUILTY IN GRAFT CASE

March 12 - Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra on Wednesday pleaded his innocence before Thailand‘s Supreme Court in his first appearance on trial on charges of corruption connected to a controversial Bangkok prime land purchase in 2003.

During the hearing, Mr. Thaksin pleaded not guilty before the court. Afterwards, speaking to the media, Mr. Thaksin's attorney Pichit Cheunban said "we have denied all charges." Expressing confidence regarding the ex-premier's ability to counter all charges and accusations, Mr. Pichit said that the prosecutors arguments could not overcome his client's innocence.

Mr. Pichit requested the court's permission that his client be excused from appearing at all hearings so that his travel plans would not interfere with the case, a petition which was granted by the court. The ex-premier did not speak to the media as he left the court.