Thailand to Decide Thaksin Parole This Week
Thailand to Decide Thaksin Parole This Week
BANGKOK, April 27, 2026 — Former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra may be exempt from wearing an electronic monitoring (EM) bracelet if granted parole, as authorities prepare to decide on his case later this week.
The Justice Ministry’s parole committee is scheduled to meet on April 29 to review eligible inmates, including Thaksin, local media reported.
Lawyer Winyat Chatmontree said it remained unclear whether Thaksin would be required to wear an EM device if released, noting that regulations may allow exemptions for elderly inmates. Thaksin is over 70 years old.
Thaksin has reportedly met the criteria for general parole after serving more than two-thirds of his one-year prison sentence, making him eligible for release as early as May 11, pending final approval.
His lawyer said the former premier has underlying health conditions and continues to receive medical treatment.
If parole is granted, Thaksin is expected to serve his probation at the family residence, Ban Chan Song La, in Bangkok.
Authorities are expected to consider inmate behaviour, health conditions and any broader public safety concerns before reaching a final decision.
Thaksin, one of Thailand’s most influential and divisive political figures, returned to the country in 2023 after years in self-imposed exile and has remained a central figure in Thai politics despite his legal troubles.
