Former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra to be freed under royal pardon

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is set to be released from prison after receiving a royal pardon, the country's justice minister announced Wednesday.

Thaksin, 76, had already been released on parole last month after serving eight months of a one-year sentence for conflicts of interest and abuse of power. He had just over three months remaining on his sentence, which was due to expire in September.

King Maha Vajiralongkorn granted pardons to selected prisoners to mark Queen Suthida's birthday on June 3. Justice Minister Rutthaphon Naowarat confirmed Thaksin was among those receiving the pardon, though administrative procedures were still pending before his formal release and removal of his electronic ankle bracelet.

Thaksin returned to Thailand in August 2023 after 15 years in self-imposed exile. His sentence was reduced from eight years to one year by royal clemency, and he spent significant time in hospital before his parole. His legal troubles have been a persistent feature of Thai politics for two decades, making him one of the nation's most influential and divisive figures.

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Based on his qualifications, he appears to meet the criteria to receive the benefit of a royal pardon and release.