Thailand’s former prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, who has spent the last 15 years in self-imposed exile, has recently made headlines by requesting a royal pardon. This request comes on the heels of his abrupt return to Thailand, which led to his immediate incarceration. This article delves into the intricacies of this development, exploring the political landscape, the implications of his return, and the process of seeking a royal pardon.
The Return of Thaksin Shinawatra
A Homecoming Shrouded in Controversy
Thaksin Shinawatra, a 74-year-old billionaire, had previously served as the Prime Minister of Thailand, being elected twice to this prestigious position. However, his tenure was marred by controversy, culminating in his ousting in a 2006 military coup. His return to Thailand last week sent shockwaves through the nation, sparking heated debates and speculation regarding his motives and potential political alliances.
The Political Landscape
Coinciding with Thaksin’s return was the resurgence of his political party, Pheu Thai, which entered into a coalition with various pro-military parties, effectively regaining power. This turn of events fueled speculations about a possible deal to shorten Thaksin’s jail time. It’s a situation ripe with political intrigue, and Thaksin’s request for a royal pardon only adds to the complexity.
Thaksin’s Request for a Royal Pardon
The Legal Background
Thaksin Shinawatra is currently serving an eight-year prison sentence for convictions related to graft and abuse of power. His application for a royal pardon could potentially lead to his release from prison.
The Procedure
Caretaker justice minister Wissanu Krea-ngam confirmed the receipt of Thaksin’s pardon request. However, the timeline for this process is uncertain. Wissanu explained that the granting of a royal pardon is entirely at the discretion of the monarchy. The government’s role in this process is relatively quick, but the timing ultimately depends on the king’s deliberations.