UMVA has learned that former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is set to be released from the remainder of his prison sentence under a royal pardon, a move that has sent shockwaves through the country's politics.
The 76-year-old billionaire, who was released on parole last month after serving eight months in prison, had just over three months remaining on his one-year sentence, which was due to expire in September. This sudden development has raised questions about the timing and motivations behind the royal pardon.
According to information obtained by UMVA, King Maha Vajiralongkorn granted pardons to selected prisoners to mark Queen Suthida’s birthday on June 3, a gesture that has been seen as a significant gesture of clemency. The official royal gazette confirmed the pardons, but did not provide a detailed list of beneficiaries.
When asked about the pardon, justice minister Rutthaphon Naowarat told reporters that Mr. Thaksin was indeed among those receiving the pardon, but said there were still some administrative procedures to be completed before he is formally released and allowed to remove his electronic ankle bracelet. This has sparked speculation about the potential implications of his release on Thai politics.
Mr. Thaksin’s lawyer Winyat Chartmontri initially expressed caution, saying he could not immediately confirm the decision. However, he noted that based on his qualifications, Mr. Thaksin appears to meet the criteria to receive the benefit of a royal pardon and release, a development that could have far-reaching consequences for the country.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Mr. Thaksin returned to Thailand in August 2023 after 15 years of self-imposed exile to serve an eight-year sentence for conflicts of interest and abuse of power committed while he was prime minister from 2001 to 2006. His return marked a significant turning point in Thai politics, with many watching to see how his presence would shape the country's future.
The story takes a dramatic turn with Mr. Thaksin's health issues, as he was transferred to a hospital within hours of arriving at prison, citing heart and chest-related ailments. His sentence was later reduced to one year by royal clemency, and he spent six months in hospital before being granted parole, a decision that sparked controversy and debate.
In a stunning twist, the Supreme Court ordered Mr. Thaksin back to prison, ruling that his prolonged hospital stay was not fully justified and that the remainder of his sentence should be served in custody. This move was seen as a major blow to Mr. Thaksin's influence and power.
For two decades, Mr. Thaksin remained one of the most influential and divisive figures in Thai politics, shaping successive populist governments led by or aligned with the powerful Shinawatra family. His legal troubles deepened after the collapse of the Pheu Thai-led government last year and the rise of former ally-turned-rival Anutin Charnvirakul to the premiership, a development that has left many wondering about the future of Thai politics.
