Thaksin Shinawatra, Thailand’s billionaire former prime minister, has been released on parole from prison on Monday (11 May). Shinawatra served part of an eight-month sentence that capped years of legal battles, political turmoil and controversy surrounding his return from exile.
The 76-year-old former leader walked out of Bangkok’s Klong Prem prison smiling and embracing family members, including his daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
Hundreds of supporters gathered outside the prison, many dressed in red, chanting “We love Thaksin” as he was released.
“I went to hibernate. I can’t remember anything now,” Thaksin told reporters when asked how he felt, adding that he was “relieved”.
Thaksin Shinawatra returned to Thailand in 2023 after 15 years in self-imposed exile, immediately beginning an eight-year sentence for corruption and abuse of power during his 2001–2006 tenure as prime minister.
However, he did not spend a single night in prison, instead being transferred to a hospital VIP wing citing heart and chest conditions. His sentence was later reduced to one year by royal pardon, and he spent six months in hospital before being granted parole.
Thailand’s Supreme Court later ruled that his extended hospital stay involved unnecessary medical procedures and ordered that time be served in prison.
Thaksin has long been a dominant and polarising figure in Thai politics, shaping successive populist governments linked to the Shinawatra family.
His return has coincided with major setbacks for his political camp, including the removal of his daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra as prime minister and the collapse of the Pheu Thai-led government.
Political analysts say his release could help revive the party, but warn he must now tread carefully.
“He has to tread carefully. He overplayed his hand,” said political scientist Titipol Phakdeewanich, noting that Thaksin’s continued influence will depend on whether he stays behind the scenes.
Supporters outside the prison celebrated his release, with some insisting he had been unfairly treated.
“He is a very good person,” said supporter Rommanee Nakano. “Whatever he did, he did it for the people.”
Thaksin is required to wear an electronic ankle monitor until his sentence formally ends in September.
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