Former Thai Prime Minister Set to Be Freed from Prison Tomorrow, February 18th
Thaksin may encounter legal obstacles as prosecutors consider charges related to alleged derogatory remarks about the monarchy made during a 2015 media interview, as reported by Reuters.
Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who has been in detention since August, is poised to be discharged from the hospital on Sunday, in accordance with the announcement by Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin.
Thaksin's parole was granted earlier this week. A prominent political figure and billionaire, Thaksin returned to Thailand after 15 years of self-imposed exile to avoid imprisonment for a conflict of interest charge. Upon his return, his eight-year sentence was reduced to one year by the King. Over the past six months, he has been receiving medical treatment due to an undisclosed health condition.
Addressing reporters, Prime Minister Srettha confirmed Thaksin's impending release on the 18th, emphasizing adherence to legal procedures. However, Thaksin may encounter legal obstacles as prosecutors consider charges related to alleged derogatory remarks about the monarchy made during a 2015 media interview, as reported by Reuters.
Thaksin's comeback coincided with Srettha assuming the role of prime minister, leading to speculation about a potential agreement between Thaksin and his opponents within Thailand's royalist-military circles. Nevertheless, Thaksin's allies, including the Pheu Thai Party supported by the Shinawatra family, have dismissed such conjectures.
This development raises inquiries about the political landscape in Thailand, as Thaksin's enduring influence persists despite his legal battles. His release could potentially alter dynamics within the country's political sphere, with supporters and detractors alike pondering the consequences of his return to public life.
The situation surrounding Thaksin's parole and potential legal proceedings highlights the intricacies of Thailand's political environment, where power struggles and legal disputes intersect. As Thaksin prepares to depart from hospital confinement, the nation awaits the implications of his reemergence on the political stage.
