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Thaksin Shinawatra Receives Royal Pardon: Certificate of Innocence Pending

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In an unexpected turn of events, former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra is set to receive a certificate of innocence within the next 120 days, as announced by the Department of Corrections (DoC). This declaration marks the end of a turbulent chapter in Thai politics and adds a fascinating twist to Thaksin’s storied journey. Among the countless inmates who were blessed with royal pardons on Sunday, Thaksin stands out as a key beneficiary. These pardons were issued to honor the momentous occasion of His Majesty the King’s 72nd birthday on July 28.

For those glued to their screens, the revelation was made official with the publication of a royal decree on the Royal Gazette website this past Saturday. Notably, Thaksin’s one-year jail sentence was initially scheduled to conclude on August 31, making the timing of the pardon even more remarkable.

In a statement made on Sunday, Sahakarn Phetnarin, the DoC director-general, shared the good news: Thaksin is now a free man, poised to receive his Section 6 certificate of innocence within a few short months. While it might seem like a straightforward process, the journey to obtaining the certificate is lined with procedures and checkpoints.

The roadmap begins with provincial governors, prison chiefs, judges, and prosecutors assembling the lists of prisoners who were granted royal pardons. These lists are then forwarded to the relevant courts, which are responsible for issuing the certificates. In Thaksin’s case, the Thon Buri Special Remand Prison chief holds the duty of submitting his details to the Thon Buri Criminal Court.

As much as we would like to see this story wrapped up with a neat little bow, the timeline for issuing Thaksin’s certificate remains ambiguous. According to the DoC, Thaksin isn’t the sole recipient of royal grace; hence, the process might take a variable amount of time.

Referencing Section 67 of the Corrections Act 2017, this certificate is not merely a piece of paper—it’s a formal attestation that the individual has been legally discharged and granted the liberty to travel abroad. Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong added another layer to this sweeping act of clemency, noting that approximately 31,000 prisoners across the nation are to be freed. Additionally, the royal pardon will grant permanent release to 8,000 other individuals who are currently on parole.

This mass liberation shines a spotlight on the nuances of justice and mercy within Thailand’s legal framework. For Thaksin, the reception of this certificate symbolizes a significant milestone, allowing him to traverse international borders once again. The broader implications of such royal pardons, however, extend far beyond individual stories, touching thousands of lives and reshaping societal narratives.

As we wait for Thaksin’s final exoneration, curiosity lingers about how this newfound freedom will impact Thailand’s political landscape. Will Thaksin resume a role in politics? Or perhaps, he’ll pivot to quieter endeavors? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear—Thailand is poised for interesting times ahead.

39 Comments

  1. Nina T August 18, 2024

    This pardon is a slap in the face to justice. Thaksin should serve his full sentence!

    • watchdog45 August 18, 2024

      Agreed. This sets a terrible precedent. It’s like rich and powerful people play by different rules.

      • Sam W. August 18, 2024

        Well, let’s be honest, they’ve always played by different rules.

      • Nina T August 18, 2024

        Yeah, but we don’t have to accept it. We should be protesting this decision.

    • Sarin K. August 18, 2024

      But maybe this is for the greater good. Thaksin has done a lot for the country too.

      • Nina T August 18, 2024

        Good doesn’t erase corruption! We need accountability.

  2. Michael J. August 18, 2024

    This just proves that the legal system is a joke. Thaksin is no saint.

    • Priya_78 August 18, 2024

      But do we really know the full story? Maybe there’s more to his pardon than we understand.

    • Michael J. August 18, 2024

      Well, whatever it is, transparency is key, and we are not getting it.

  3. Amy August 18, 2024

    How will this affect Thailand’s international relations, though?

    • Greg H August 18, 2024

      Good point. This could be seen as a sign of instability. Thailand needs to be careful.

    • Amy August 18, 2024

      Exactly. If Thaksin gets involved in politics again, it could either stabilize things or create more chaos.

    • Ananya P. August 18, 2024

      Thaksin’s involvement would definitely ruffle some feathers internationally, no doubt.

  4. liam45 August 18, 2024

    It’s crazy how one man’s fate can impact an entire country’s politics. Wonder if Thaksin will stay low-key.

  5. Sara M. August 18, 2024

    I feel for the 31,000 prisoners who got released too. This is a second chance for them.

    • Emma R August 18, 2024

      Absolutely. Maybe this will help reduce prison overcrowding and give people a fresh start.

    • Sara M. August 18, 2024

      Let’s hope so. Everyone deserves a second chance if they are willing to change.

    • Victor L August 18, 2024

      But what about the victims of their crimes? Do second chances erase what was done?

    • Sara M. August 18, 2024

      No, but justice shouldn’t be about endless punishment either.

  6. neo_rebel August 18, 2024

    This is all part of a puppet show. Who believes this pardon isn’t politically motivated?

  7. Charlie K August 18, 2024

    Honestly, Thaksin’s pardon could be a way to balance the political scales. Democracy involves compromise.

  8. Alex D. August 18, 2024

    Every time I think Thai politics can’t get more twisted, something like this happens.

    • Teera August 18, 2024

      Yep, it’s like watching a soap opera sometimes.

    • Alex D. August 18, 2024

      True, but it’s real life, and the stakes are high for millions of people.

    • Teera August 18, 2024

      Which is why we need reforms, not just pardons.

  9. David L August 18, 2024

    Imagine being one of the other prisoners. Thaksin’s release must feel like favoritism to them.

  10. Virada S. August 18, 2024

    The royal pardon for Thaksin offers hope. Maybe it shows leniency in an otherwise strict legal system.

    • Jonny_7 August 18, 2024

      Or it shows how easily influenced the legal system is by those in power.

    • Virada S. August 18, 2024

      I see your point, but we can’t ignore the positives either.

  11. Ravi M. August 18, 2024

    Can we expect Thaksin to make a political comeback?

    • Kanya T. August 18, 2024

      I doubt it. He may be influential but returning to politics is a long shot.

    • Ravi M. August 18, 2024

      Never say never in politics. Stranger things have happened.

  12. Tommy August 18, 2024

    I still see him as a criminal. You can’t just wipe that out with a paper.

  13. Patricia W. August 19, 2024

    Will this royal pardon lead to more political stability or more protests?

    • manupol25 August 19, 2024

      It’s going to be a mixed bag. Some will celebrate, others will definitely protest.

    • Patricia W. August 19, 2024

      Yes, I’m worried about potential unrest.

    • manupol25 August 19, 2024

      It’s almost certain. Thai politics are never simple.

  14. CaptainCourage August 19, 2024

    I think the royal pardon is a humane move. Everyone deserves another shot at life.

    • laura_m August 19, 2024

      But it’s not just about Thaksin. What’s the broader message here?

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