Thailands former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra released from prison after serving term

Former Thai Prime Minister Released on Parole After Eight Months Behind Bars

Thailand’s former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been released from prison in Bangkok, ending an eight-month sentence for corruption-related charges. The 76-year-old billionaire was greeted by hundreds of supporters, including his family and political allies, upon his release on Monday.

Thaksin served as prime minister from 2001 to 2006 before being ousted in a military coup while abroad. He returned to Thailand in 2023 to face an eight-year sentence for conflicts of interest and abuse of power related to his time in office. His sentence was commuted to one year by the king, but he spent six months in hospital after complaining of health issues.

Thaksin’s release on parole was granted following a review of over 900 eligible prisoners’ cases, citing his good behavior in prison, age, and low risk of reoffending. As part of his sentence, Thaksin will be required to wear an electronic ankle monitor for the remainder of his sentence.

Upon his release, Thaksin was seen greeting supporters outside his home in western Bangkok, but did not speak to reporters. His Pheu Thai Party, which suffered its worst election performance on record earlier this year, has joined the governing coalition of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.

Source: Al Jazeera