Controversial ex-Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra set for early release

In a surprising turn of events, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is poised to be released from jail, according to statements from the kingdom’s Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong on Tuesday. The release, anticipated to occur as early as this weekend, comes just six months after Thaksin’s return from a 15-year self-imposed exile.

The 74-year-old billionaire, a two-time elected premier ousted in a 2006 military coup, was initially sentenced to eight years on charges of graft and abuse of power in August. However, King Maha Vajiralongkorn promptly reduced the sentence to one year, raising eyebrows and fueling speculations of behind-the-scenes agreements.

Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong explained that Thaksin is part of a group of 930 prisoners, primarily consisting of individuals in critical health conditions or aged over 70, set to receive early release. “He will be released after six months automatically,” Sodsong confirmed during a press conference.

The specifics of Thaksin’s release remain unclear, with potential monitoring measures such as an ankle tag and travel restrictions being considered. The former Manchester City owner’s return to Thailand coincided with his Pheu Thai party’s alliance with pro-military parties, prompting suspicions of a deal influencing his reduced jail time.

Thaksin’s health played a significant role in the unfolding events. Shortly after his sentencing, he was transferred to a police hospital due to reported chest tightness and high blood pressure. Questions linger regarding whether he has spent any time in a traditional prison cell, as local media documented his hospitalization and two subsequent operations.

A divisive figure in Thai politics, Thaksin Shinawatra has been both admired and reviled throughout his career. His populist policies endeared him to millions of rural Thais in the early 2000s, while the country’s royalist and pro-military establishment harbors deep-seated resentment.

Upon his return to Bangkok, Thaksin received a hero’s welcome from his supporters, emphasizing the enduring polarities in Thai politics. His first public act was a gesture of homage before a portrait of the king at the airport.

Recent developments, however, add a new layer of complexity to Thaksin’s situation. Last week, police filed lese-majeste charges against him over comments made in South Korea nearly a decade ago. Whether prosecutors will pursue the case remains uncertain, as Thaksin staunchly denies the charges and has sought fair treatment from the attorney general in a written appeal.

The unfolding events surrounding Thaksin Shinawatra’s release continue to captivate the attention of the Thai public and beyond, raising questions about the intersection of politics, justice, and the enduring influence of a controversial figure.