Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was granted parole and released early Sunday from a Bangkok hospital where he had been serving a six-month sentence for corruption-related offenses. Thaksin, a prominent and controversial figure in Thai politics for the past two decades, left the Police General Hospital in a convoy just before sunrise, wearing a neck support. Arriving at his residence in western Bangkok shortly after, he was greeted with a homemade banner that read, 'Welcome home' and 'We've been waiting for this day for so long.'
Thaksin's political career was marked by highs and lows, serving as prime minister from 2001 until his ousting in a 2006 coup. Following his removal from office, he was found guilty of abusing his power and other offenses. After more than ten years in self-imposed exile, Thaksin returned to Thailand in August to serve his prison sentence, which was initially eight years but later commuted to one year by the King on September 1. Thaksin has maintained that his convictions were politically motivated.
The decision to grant Thaksin parole was confirmed by Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong, who cited the provision for early release for inmates with serious illnesses, disabilities, or those over the age of 70. At 74 years old, Thaksin met the criteria for early release and was transferred from the police hospital where he had been confined during his sentence. Critics have raised concerns about the perceived privilege of serving a prison sentence in a hospital setting.
As Thaksin emerges from his incarceration, his release stirs mixed reactions among the public, with supporters welcoming his return and opponents raising questions about the judicial process. The parole of the former prime minister adds another chapter to Thailand's complex and tumultuous political landscape, leaving many to ponder the implications of his reentry into the political sphere.
