Thaksin to Walk Free May 11 After Parole Approval

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BANGKOK, April 29, 2026 — Thailand’s parole board has approved the release of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, paving the way for his release from prison on May 11 after serving more than seven months of a one-year sentence.

The decision was made during a meeting of the Ministry of Justice’s parole committee, which considered Thaksin eligible under a nationwide parole programme, officials said.

Thaksin, 76, will not be required to wear an electronic monitoring bracelet due to his age and medical condition, authorities added.

He has been in custody since September 2025 and has served nearly two-thirds of his sentence, meeting the threshold for parole consideration.

Upon release, Thaksin will undergo a four-month probation period under the supervision of correctional and probation authorities.

The former premier remains a central figure in Thai politics, and his release is expected to draw close attention from both supporters and critics amid ongoing political developments in the country.

Officials said the parole decision followed standard procedures, though analysts note it could have broader implications for Thailand’s political landscape as Thaksin re-enters public life.