Former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra is set to receive a full release under a royal pardon granted in conjunction with the birthday celebration of Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana.
The royal clemency, traditionally extended to eligible inmates during significant national and royal occasions, includes individuals who meet specific criteria outlined under the latest royal decree.
Justice Minister Rutthaphon Nawarat confirmed that Thaksin’s name was among those approved to receive the pardon, effectively ending the remainder of his probation period.
Thaksin was previously released from Khlong Prem Central Prison on May 11 after serving two-thirds of a one-year prison sentence.
Following his release, he was placed under a four-month probation programme that was originally scheduled to run until September. Conditions reportedly included wearing an electronic monitoring (EM) bracelet and reporting regularly to authorities.
Under the royal pardon, however, Thaksin will no longer be required to fulfil the remaining probation requirements.
According to Rutthaphon, the former premier’s electronic monitoring device will also be removed in accordance with provisions under Section 8 of the Royal Decree Granting Amnesty, which applies to individuals with less than one year remaining on their sentence.
The development was welcomed by members of Thaksin’s family and political allies.
His daughter, Pintongtha Kunakornwong, told reporters during a merit-making ceremony held to commemorate the Queen’s birthday that the family was pleased with the decision and was awaiting its formal implementation.
She added that since leaving prison, Thaksin has spent much of his time with his seven grandchildren.
Meanwhile, Pheu Thai Party secretary-general and Education Minister Prasert Chantararuangthong also expressed satisfaction over the news, describing it as a positive development for supporters of the former leader.
Prasert said Thaksin continues to maintain close ties with the ruling Pheu Thai Party and remains highly respected among party members.
However, he stressed that Thaksin would not interfere in the party’s decision-making process, noting that the party operates under its own leadership and executive structure.
The royal pardon marks another significant chapter in Thaksin’s political and legal journey following his return to Thailand after years spent overseas.
As of Wednesday, Thaksin had yet to publicly comment on the royal pardon or outline any plans regarding his future role in public life and politics.
