Ex-PM Thaksin’s Royal Pardon Request Stalls Amid Legal Review
Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s bid for a royal pardon faces significant legal obstacles, according to the latest statement from the Cabinet Secretariat. The process, shrouded in confidentiality, has sparked fresh debate in Bangkok.
Cabinet Not Involved in Thaksin Shinawatra Pardon
The Cabinet Secretariat confirms Thaksin Shinawatra’s petition for a royal pardon does not require Cabinet approval. Secretary-general Natjaree Anantasilp says the application has already reached the justice minister for review.
“This is not something that needs to be tabled before the Cabinet,” Natjaree states. “From now on, the process will follow proper procedure.”
Justice Minister Rutthapon Naowarat declines to confirm reports that the ministry rejected Thaksin’s appeal. He stresses the classified nature of the request, adding, “My opinion aligns with the committee led by the justice permanent secretary, which has already conveyed its view.”
Legal Criteria Not Met, Officials Say
Rutthapon explains that his assessment is based on Section 261 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which outlines the justice minister’s role in pardon requests. As a newly appointed minister, he reviews the case within the legal framework and finds Thaksin’s petition does not meet the required criteria. He does not disclose further details.
On September 9, the Supreme Court sentenced Thaksin to one year in prison, ruling that his original sentence had not been properly executed. The court also questions the legitimacy of Thaksin’s six-month stay in a VIP hospital room, saying it was not justified by health concerns.
Past and Present Governments Weigh In
Reports suggest that Police Colonel Tawee Sodsong, the former justice minister, recommended rejecting Thaksin’s pardon appeal, with support from the Department of Corrections. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul clarifies that the review began under Tawee’s tenure and is unrelated to the current administration.
“Everything is proceeding according to the law… We allow the legal process to follow its course, irrespective of individuals,” Anutin says. He adds that any overlap between administrations must respect the previous minister’s authority.
Asked if he must sign off on the matter, Anutin admits uncertainty, noting the documents have not yet reached him.
What’s Next for Thaksin?
With Thaksin Shinawatra’s royal pardon request facing legal barriers and no Cabinet involvement, the future remains uncertain. Officials insist the process will continue strictly by the book, leaving the former prime minister’s fate hanging in the balance.
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