BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thaksin Shinawatra faces a turning point. The former prime minister, 76, has served the minimum time for parole behind bars. Only one final hurdle separates him from freedom on May 11.
Family fears outside prison gate
Monday marked the 59th visit by the family to Klong Prem Central Prison. Led by Bhanapoj Damapong, relatives crowded around the 76-year-old – including his lawyer Winyat Chatmontree.
The lawyer described the situation as a “turning point.” It remains open whether Thaksin must wear an electronic ankle monitor due to his age. That decision is still pending.
Seven months and 18 days locked away
Since September 9, 2025, the politician has been imprisoned. The Supreme Court ruled that a six-month hospital stay did not count as time served. Thaksin was sent directly to a cell.
He has now served two-thirds of his one-year sentence – the absolute minimum for early release. He is among roughly 500 inmates eligible for the major parole date.
April 29 brings the decision
A subcommittee of the Justice Ministry will meet on that day. They will review Thaksin’s case and make the final decision on his freedom. The parole committee is reported to have already given preliminary approval.
If the answer is yes, Thaksin would walk out of prison on the morning of May 11. He would then remain on parole for four months – until September 9, when the sentence is completely cleared.
“He is stable” – lawyer fights for fairness
“He is stable.”
said Winyat Chatmontree, attorney. Thaksin’s health condition does not cause his legal representative great concern. The 76-year-old takes medication regularly, and underlying conditions are under control. His mental state is also positive.
Regarding reports of the parole committee’s approval, the lawyer remained tactically silent. He urged authorities to review the case strictly according to facts and without regard to the person.
An old man before freedom – what do we owe him?
The report notes that the case raises questions of fairness among the roughly 500 other inmates also hoping for parole. A 76-year-old with fragile health is set to be released after seven months – on parole. Who decides if that is fair compared to all the other hopefuls?