thaksin shinawatra set

Thaksin Shinawatra Set to Walk Free on Parole in May

BANGKOK — Imprisoned former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra will become eligible for release on parole in May, with the exact date and conditions of his release now clarified by Thailand’s Corrections Department following days of public speculation and multiple official announcements.

Thaksin Shinawatra Submits New Appeal for Royal Pardon

The Corrections Department issued a statement on Wednesday confirming the timeline for Thaksin’s parole eligibility, stating that the former leader will have served two-thirds of his one-year prison term on May 10, making him eligible for release on parole the following day, May 11 . This clarification came after earlier reports from some officials suggested a May 9 release date, creating confusion that the department moved to resolve with a detailed official statement.

The Calculation Behind the Release

According to the Corrections Department’s formal announcement, Thaksin’s sentence is calculated under Section 21 of the Criminal Code, with the first day counted as day one regardless of the number of hours served. Each month is counted as 30 days. Since his sentence runs from September 9, 2025, to September 9, 2026, it amounts to 12 months and five days. Two-thirds of this term equals eight months and four days, or 244 days, which falls precisely on May 10, 2026.

The department emphasized that Thaksin meets the eligibility conditions under Section 52(7) of the Corrections Act B.E. 2560 (2017) and a Justice Ministry ministerial directive on sentence reductions and parole, and that his parole has been considered and approved by the relevant committee in accordance with the law.

No Electronic Monitoring Required

Regarding the conditions of his release, Corrections Department deputy director-general and spokesman Yutthana Nakruangsi confirmed that Thaksin will not be required to wear an electronic monitoring bracelet due to the relatively short length of his sentence . However, he will be obligated to report to parole officers according to a set schedule throughout the remaining four months of his sentence, which will be completed on September 9, 2026 .

If parole conditions are violated, Yutthana warned, the individual would be returned immediately to prison to serve the remainder of the sentence . The final decision on whether any additional conditions, including electronic monitoring, would apply rests with the parole-review subcommittee.

Family Confirmations and Political Future

Thaksin’s daughter, former prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, visited her father at Klong Prem Central Prison on Thursday, marking her 43rd visit during his five months and 17 days of custody . After spending approximately 45 minutes with him, she confirmed to reporters that the parole process is proceeding according to procedure and that her father would meet the criteria on May 10.

When asked about Thaksin’s political future following his release, Paetongtarn stated that he has been in prison for six months and would likely step away from politics for certain . This statement comes amid widespread analysis suggesting that Thaksin’s continued political involvement, both openly and behind the scenes, was viewed as a key factor in his Pheu Thai Party’s historic defeat in the February 8 general election, where the party fell below 100 MPs for the first time.

A Complex Legal Journey

Thaksin’s current incarceration stems from a complex legal history dating back to his 2023 return to Thailand after 15 years in self-imposed exile . Upon his return in August 2023, he was initially sentenced to eight years for abuse of power and conflict of interest during his time as premier from 2001 to 2006. Shortly after, His Majesty the King commuted his eight-year sentence to one year.

Within hours of arriving at prison in 2023, Thaksin was transferred to a private suite on the 14th floor of the Police General Hospital citing health issues, where he spent six months without spending a single night in a standard prison cell before being granted parole in early 2024 . However, in September 2025, the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions ruled that the hospital stay was unlawful, finding that his condition was not a critical emergency and that the time spent in the hospital could not be counted as time served. The court subsequently ordered him to serve the full one-year commuted sentence behind bars.

Official Stance

The Corrections Department emphasized in its statement that consideration of parole for each convicted prisoner is carried out strictly in accordance with the law and human rights principles, without discrimination. The department added that once Thaksin completes his full sentence in September, he will receive a clearance certificate from the prison.

Former PM Thaksin Diagnosed with Neck Bone Deterioration in Bangkok Prison

Red-shirt supporters continue to gather outside Klong Prem Central Prison to show their support for the former leader, who remains a deeply polarizing figure in Thai politics despite his advancing years and legal battles.

-Thailand News (TN)

Similar Posts

  • | |

    Katy Perry slams Trump administration over ‘Fire…

    WASHINGTON: Pop star Katy Perry has sharply criticized the Trump administration after the White House used her hit song “Firework” in a social media video showing US military strikes on Iran, saying the use of her music was completely contrary to the message behind the song. The White House’s official TikTok account shared a video on Thursday featuring footage related to US attacks on Iran. The clip used the familiar “boom, boom, boom” lyrics from Perry’s 2010 hit alongside images of military strikes. The post carried a blunt warning directed at Iran, adding a strikingly confrontational tone to a song that Perry has long described as being about hope, confidence and personal strength. Perry responded on social media on Saturday, making clear that she had not authorized the use of the song and did not support the way it had been presented. “I’m deeply shocked and angry,” Perry said in her statement, objecting to the song’s appearance alongside images of destruction and military action. She emphasized that no permission had been sought from her for the video and that she did not endorse its message. For Perry, the controversy goes beyond the question of whether her music was used without authorization. She argued that the video fundamentally changed the meaning of a song intended to encourage people facing difficult moments. “Firework,” released in 2010, became one of Perry’s biggest international hits. Its message centers on self-belief, resilience and finding inner strength during challenging periods. The song has also become closely associated with celebrations and inspirational moments. That made its use in a military video particularly jarring for the singer. Perry said her music was created to bring people together rather than celebrate war, arguing that pairing an uplifting song with images of destruction undermined its original purpose. The dispute comes as tensions between Washington and Tehran remain extremely high, with military action and threats dominating international headlines. The White House has not been reported as having received Perry’s approval for the video, while her comments have reignited a wider debate over the use of popular music in political and military messaging. The incident also highlights the complicated relationship between artists and governments when copyrighted music is used in political communications. Musicians have repeatedly objected when their songs appear in campaigns or political videos without their consent. For Perry, however, the central issue appears to be the message. A song written to tell people to find their light in dark times was suddenly placed against scenes of war — a contrast she clearly believes turns its meaning upside down.

  • | |

    Pakistan Embassy in Ankara marks Kashmir Exploitat…

    The Embassy of Pakistan in Ankara commemorated Kashmir Exploitation Day with national spirit and dignity, reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and their right to self-determination. The event marked seven years since India’s August 5, 2019, decision to revoke the special constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir. Participants reiterated solidarity with the Kashmiri people and called for a peaceful resolution of the dispute in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions. The ceremony was attended by prominent Turkish political leaders, diplomats, academics, members of parliament, representatives of think tanks, members of the diplomatic corps, media personnel, and members of the Pakistani and Turkish communities. The event began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by special messages from President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The messages reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the Kashmiri people’s struggle and urged the international community to play an effective role in implementing UN Security Council resolutions on the Kashmir dispute. Chairman of the Geopolitical Foresight Institute, retired Major General Goray Alpar, highlighted the strategic and geographical importance of Jammu and Kashmir. He said the people of Pakistan and Türkiye share deep historical, cultural, and brotherly ties. He also warned that India’s unilateral actions, constitutional changes, and attempts to use shared water resources as political leverage could threaten peace and stability across the region. SESRIC Director General and former Turkish minister Zehra Zümrüt Selçuk reaffirmed the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation’s principled stance on the Kashmir issue. She said a just and lasting solution could only be achieved by allowing the people of Kashmir to exercise their right to self-determination in line with UN Security Council resolutions. She also drew parallels between the situations in Kashmir and Palestine, urging the international community to fulfil its responsibilities in pursuing a fair and durable solution. Turkish parliamentarian and Deputy Chairman of the Felicity Party, Mustafa Kaya, strongly criticised India’s policies in Indian-administered Kashmir, describing them as “demographic terrorism.” He said efforts to alter the region’s demographic composition, deprive local residents of land rights, and implement settlement policies similar to those seen elsewhere would not suppress the Kashmiri people’s aspirations for freedom. In his concluding remarks, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Türkiye, Dr. Yousaf Junaid, thanked the Turkish government and people for their continued support on the Kashmir issue. He alleged that India was pursuing a policy of demographic change in the region by issuing millions of domicile certificates to non-local residents while maintaining restrictions on independent media and continuing state repression. The ambassador said India’s unilateral constitutional measures could not change the internationally recognised disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir. He stressed that lasting peace, security, and stability in South Asia depended on a just resolution of the Kashmir dispute and reiterated Pakistan’s call for a free, fair, and impartial UN-supervised plebiscite to allow the Kashmiri people to determine their political future.

  • | |

    Meghan McCain gives scathing response to trolls ca…

    Meghan McCain is refusing to let online criticism define her. The former The View co-host recently fired back at social media trolls after they mocked her appearance, calling her “old” and “ugly.” Instead of ignoring the comments, McCain delivered a firm response, making it clear that she will not allow online bullies to dictate how she feels about herself. The television personality addressed the criticism on X (formerly Twitter), where she called out the growing culture of appearance-based insults on social media. McCain said she finds it disturbing that women continue to be judged so harshly for how they look, particularly as they get older. Rather than engaging in personal attacks, she used the moment to highlight the unrealistic beauty standards many women face online. (people.com⁠) “I don’t care if strangers think I’m old or ugly,” McCain wrote, adding that she is proud of the life she has built. She emphasized that she has a loving family, a successful career, and priorities that go far beyond social media opinions. Her message quickly gained attention, with many supporters praising her confidence and willingness to speak openly about online harassment. (people.com⁠) McCain has long been known for expressing her opinions without hesitation. During her years on The View, she frequently made headlines for passionate political debates and outspoken commentary. Since leaving the daytime talk show in 2021, she has continued sharing her views through her podcast, television appearances, and social media platforms. Her latest response reflects the same direct communication style that has defined much of her public career. (people.com⁠) The incident has also sparked broader discussions about online bullying, especially toward women in the public eye. Celebrities often face criticism over their appearance, regardless of age or accomplishments. Many fans argued that comments focusing on physical appearance contribute to harmful beauty standards and discourage healthy conversations online. McCain’s supporters applauded her for challenging those attitudes instead of remaining silent. (today.com⁠) In recent years, McCain has frequently spoken about balancing her professional life with motherhood and family responsibilities. She has said that becoming a parent has changed her perspective, making her less concerned about public approval and more focused on what truly matters. That outlook was evident in her latest response, as she reminded critics that confidence comes from personal fulfillment rather than strangers’ opinions on the internet. (people.com⁠) Although online criticism remains a reality for many public figures, McCain’s response has resonated with people who believe social media should encourage respectful discussion instead of personal attacks. By confronting the insults directly, she transformed a negative experience into a wider conversation about self-confidence, kindness, and the importance of refusing to let anonymous critics define one’s worth. (people.com⁠)

  • | | | |

    Houthi attack on Yemen’s Mokha leaves six dead

    MOKHA: A Houthi attack on Yemen’s Red Sea port city of Mokha has killed six people, including two security personnel, according to a military official from Yemen’s internationally recognised government. The attack, which took place on Friday, targeted commercial vessels unloading cargo at the port, raising fresh concerns over the security of maritime activity along one of the world’s most strategically important shipping routes. The military official said the Iran-aligned Houthi group fired five missiles at the vessels. The strikes reportedly hit the port area and caused fires to break out aboard two ships. The attack comes as tensions continue to rise across Yemen, with Houthi forces increasingly targeting areas controlled by the internationally recognised government. The latest violence has also added to concerns over the safety of commercial shipping operating near the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Mokha, historically known as Mocha, is located on Yemen’s western coast near the Bab el-Mandeb, a narrow maritime passage linking the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden. Its location gives the port significant importance for regional trade and shipping. The latest incident follows a series of Houthi attacks in and around Yemen’s government-held territories and against commercial vessels. The United Nations has warned that Yemen is at increasing risk of a return to wider conflict, with military activity intensifying despite the fragile calm that followed the 2022 truce. The renewed attacks have also raised fears of further disruption to international shipping. Maritime authorities continue to warn commercial operators about missile, drone and other threats in the southern Red Sea, Bab el-Mandeb and Gulf of Aden. Details about the identities of those killed and the extent of damage to the vessels were not immediately available. The attack is likely to further deepen concerns about Yemen’s fragile security situation and the growing risks facing civilian and commercial activity along its Red Sea coastline.

  • |

    Aviation bodies to shift headquarters to Islamabad

    The federal government has decided to relocate the headquarters of two key aviation institutions — the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) and the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) — from Karachi to Islamabad. According to sources, both organisations will initially establish temporary headquarters at Islamabad International Airport. The move aims to bring the two aviation bodies closer to the federal government and other key administrative institutions in the capital. A seven-member joint committee, comprising officials from the PCAA and PAA, has been formed to oversee the arrangements for the relocation. Deputy Director General Airports Authority Sadiq Rehman will head the committee. The committee will identify suitable space at Islamabad International Airport for the construction of temporary headquarters and will also examine the logistical requirements involved in shifting the two organisations. Sources said the PCAA is expected to move its headquarters to Islamabad by November, while the PAA will follow by December. The authorities will make necessary arrangements to ensure that the transition does not disrupt the organisations’ routine operations. The headquarters of both aviation bodies are currently located in Karachi, which has traditionally served as an important centre for Pakistan’s aviation sector. However, the government plans to retain their regional offices in Karachi and other parts of the country. The relocation will therefore affect the central administrative setup rather than the wider network of regional operations. Offices and field formations across the country will continue to perform their existing functions. The decision marks a significant administrative shift for Pakistan’s aviation sector and is expected to reshape the way the two authorities coordinate their operations with federal institutions based in Islamabad.

  • | |

    What’s really going on between Michael B. Jordan…

    Michael B. Jordan and Rihanna have sparked plenty of online curiosity after a recent outing together led fans to wonder whether the two stars could be more than friends. The viral sighting quickly fueled speculation, particularly because both celebrities are major names in entertainment. However, reports suggest there is no romance behind their meeting. According to the information attributed to Page Six, the outing was connected to work, and Jordan and Rihanna are simply friends. A viral moment creates dating rumors Celebrity sightings can quickly become the subject of online speculation, especially when two well-known stars are seen together away from a major public event. That appears to be what happened with Jordan and Rihanna. The pair’s recent appearance was enough for fans to begin wondering about their relationship. Social media reactions quickly turned a casual meeting into a possible romance story, even though neither star has publicly confirmed a relationship. Jordan has generally kept his personal life private. He previously described his love life as a subject he is not particularly interested in discussing publicly, while explaining that his demanding career can make relationships complicated. (Harper’s BAZAAR⁠) Their connection is reportedly professional Despite the speculation, the latest reports indicate that the outing had a professional reason behind it. Sources reportedly told Page Six that Jordan and Rihanna are friends and that their recent time together was work-related. That explanation offers a much simpler answer to the viral photos and suggests fans may have read more into the encounter than was actually there. Neither Jordan nor Rihanna has publicly announced a romantic relationship with each other, making the friendship explanation the only confirmed direction available at this point. Jordan keeps his dating life private Jordan has remained relatively quiet about his relationships throughout his career. His most public romance was with Lori Harvey, whom he dated for more than a year before their 2022 split. Since then, the actor has been linked to several women, although many of those reports were never confirmed. (People.com⁠) His private approach makes it understandable why even a simple public outing can attract considerable attention. Rihanna, meanwhile, has also remained focused on her family, music, business ventures and other professional projects. A sighting with another celebrity does not necessarily indicate a romantic connection. For now, the viral moment appears to be exactly that: a moment that generated plenty of speculation but little evidence of a romance.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *