Published：Jun 3, 00:56Last updated：Jun 9, 16:59

Thaksin Shinawatra Freed by Royal Pardon

Jun. 3, 2026 00:56

Thai Justice Minister Rutaporn confirmed that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra will be pardoned under a royal decree issued by King Maha Vajiralongkorn. Thaksin, who has been in exile, is among those eligible for the pardon. The decree was issued on June 2.

Summarized

8News

6Media

Jun. 9, 2026 13:56

Thailand's Corrections Department confirmed on June 9 that former PM Thaksin Shinawatra was pardoned and released from electronic monitoring. The pardon, under a royal decree, followed his parole on May 11 after serving time. Thaksin had been required to wear an ankle monitor and report to authorities until his full release.

Jun. 9, 2026 16:59

On June 9, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra removed his electronic ankle monitor after completing legal procedures. Thaksin, who returned to Thailand in 2023 after years in exile, plans to travel abroad, including to the UAE and the UK, following his release.

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been granted a royal pardon by King Maha Vajiralongkorn, ending his legal ordeal and marking a significant development in Thailand's political landscape. The pardon, confirmed by Justice Minister Rutaporn, removes all remaining restrictions on the controversial leader who returned from exile in 2023. Huanqiu+2

👑 Royal Decree Issued

The royal decree was officially issued on June 2, 2026, making Thaksin eligible for full release. Thailand's Corrections Department confirmed the pardon covers all remaining sentences and monitoring requirements. This follows Thaksin's initial parole on May 11 after serving part of his corruption-related prison term. ChinaNews+1

🏛 Legal Process Completed

On June 9, Thaksin formally removed his electronic ankle monitor after completing all legal procedures. The pardon effectively ended his four-month probation period ahead of schedule. Authorities confirmed all judicial requirements were satisfied before the monitor's removal. ChinaNews+1

✈️ International Travel Plans

The former prime minister has announced plans to travel abroad, with Dubai and the UK as initial destinations. This marks his first international trip since returning to Thailand in 2023. The pardon clears all legal obstacles for his travel plans. The Japan Times+1

🕊 Political Implications

Thaksin's full release comes amid a transformed political landscape in Thailand. Analysts suggest the pardon could influence upcoming political developments, though the former leader has not announced any immediate plans to re-enter politics. The move highlights the continuing interplay between Thailand's justice system and monarchy. Toronto Star+1

DubaiRutapornThaksin ShinawatraKing Maha VajiralongkornThailand Corrections Department