Big news coming out of Thailand today! 📢 Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been officially and fully discharged from his sentence, thanks to a royal pardon decree. Justice Minister Rutthapon Naowarat confirmed the news this Wednesday, June 3, 2026, sending waves through the political scene.
So, here is the tea: a royal pardon decree was published in the official Royal Gazette on Tuesday. Because Thaksin's remaining sentence was less than a year, the decree meant he was discharged immediately. This effectively wipes away the need for him to stay under probation until September 9. 📝✔️
If you're catching up, Thaksin had previously been released from Klong Prem Central Prison on May 11 to serve the last few months of his one-year sentence on parole. During that time, he had to check in monthly with a probation office and wear an electronic monitoring (EM) device—basically a high-tech ankle monitor. 📱👣
But wait, there is a small catch! Even though he is legally discharged, he can't just toss the monitoring device in the bin yet. 🛑 According to local reports, a three-member committee needs to review the case, a process that can take up to 120 days to verify everything and handle the paperwork.
Once he receives his official certificate of clearance—which is the gold standard legal proof of his discharge—he'll be able to head to the probation office to finally get that device removed. This certificate is also super important for his criminal record and his ability to travel internationally. ✈️🌍
It is a massive development for one of Thailand's most influential figures, and all eyes are now on what happens next! 🧐💬
Reference(s):
Justice minister: Former Thai PM Thaksin discharged under royal pardon
cgtn.com
