In a significant legal development for Thailand, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been fully discharged from his sentence under a royal pardon decree. Justice Minister Rutthapon Naowarat confirmed the news on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, stating that the discharge takes immediate effect.
The decision follows a decree published in the official Royal Gazette on Tuesday. According to Minister Rutthapon, Mr. Thaksin met the necessary conditions for the pardon, which removes the requirement for him to remain under probation until the previously scheduled date of September 9.
The immediate nature of the discharge was attributed to the fact that Mr. Thaksin's remaining sentence was less than one year. This marks a turning point in the former leader's legal journey, following his release from Klong Prem Central Prison on May 11 to serve the final four months of his one-year sentence on parole.
During his period of parole, Mr. Thaksin was subject to strict conditions, including monthly reports to a probation office and the wearing of an electronic monitoring device. While the legal discharge is immediate, the physical removal of the monitoring device is still pending.
Reports indicate that a three-member committee under the decree must first conduct a review, a process that can take up to 120 days to verify eligible recipients and finalize documentation. Furthermore, Mr. Thaksin must obtain a certificate of clearance—legal proof of his lawful discharge—which is essential for updating his criminal record and enabling international travel.
This development is closely watched by political analysts and business leaders across Asia, as it potentially reshapes the political and social landscape in Thailand.
Reference(s):
Justice minister: Former Thai PM Thaksin discharged under royal pardon
cgtn.com
