Former Manchester City owner and Thailand minister, Thaksin, aged 74, returned from a 15-year self-imposed exile last August to serve a prison sentence for corruption and abuse of power committed while in office.
Now Shinawatra has been granted parole after six months in prison.
Thaksin, aged 74, emerged from a 15-year self-imposed exile in August last year to begin serving a prison sentence for corruption and abuse of power during his time in office.
Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong announced the ruling on Tuesday, refraining from confirming the exact date of Thaksin’s release. However, it is widely anticipated that his release could occur as soon as this weekend.
The official also informed reporters in Bangkok that the former premier is among 930 inmates eligible for early release due to serious illnesses, disabilities, or being over the age of 70.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin added, after a cabinet meeting, that Thaksin’s parole aligns with Corrections Department rules, as he has already completed his sentence.
The premier also lauded his predecessor as “one of the most popular prime ministers in Thai political history” and highlighted his longstanding dedication to the welfare of the country.
Thaksin is currently serving a one-year sentence, reduced from eight, in a police hospital in Bangkok. He has denounced the charges as politically motivated.
After his sentencing, he was transferred to the hospital due to chest tightness, high blood pressure, and low oxygen levels, as reported by the Thai Corrections Department.
Thaksin, a telecommunications billionaire who utilized his wealth to establish a populist political party, held the position of prime minister from 2001 to 2006. However, his tenure was cut short when he was ousted by a military coup.
Following his ousting, he acquired Manchester City in 2007 for £81.6 million, later selling the club to investors from Abu Dhabi United Group the following year.
Fleeing Thailand in 2008 to evade arrest, his sister Yingluck Shinawatra subsequently assumed leadership of the country from 2011 to 2014, before departing office shortly before another coup installed a military government.
He returned to his home country after 15 years on the same day Mr. Srettha, of the Pheu Thai party, won an election with the backing of military-linked parties.
IThe Pheu Thai party is the current iteration of the party Thaksin established as Thai Rak Thai. He continues to be regarded as the de facto leader of the political faction.
While Thaksin has been granted parole, Thai officials revealed last week that they reopened an investigation into allegations of defaming the monarchy made against the former premier almost nine years ago.
If the Office of the Attorney General proceeds with the indictment, Thaksin could face detention again immediately upon his release.
Thaksin’s daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who leads the Pheu Thai party, stated last week that she has prepared his residence in Bangkok in anticipation of his release.