Thailand's jailed ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra released on parole

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By  India Blooms News Service   Feb 19, 2024

Thailands former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra returned home after he was released from prison on parole on Saturday, ending his six-month detention.

He was released from a police hospital where he was serving his one-year jail sentence for corruption and abuse of power.

Thaksin was arrested immediately after he returned to Thailand last August following his 15-month self-imposed exile.

The former PM did not spend a single night in prison after he complained of health problems.

Thaksins original eight-year prison term was commuted to one year by Thailands king - just days after he returned from exile, reported BBC.

Government adviser and former energy minister Pichai Naripthapan posted on X: Congratulations to Prime Minister Thaksin on returning home to Chansongla this morning. May you have good health.

 pic.twitter.com/XWJMWVHiva

Authorities claimed he was eligible for parole due to health and age reasons.

Thaksin and political developments

He served as the Prime Minister of Thailand from 2001 to 2006.

He left the country in 2008 after being disposed of by a coup two years earlier.

According to reports, he spent most of his exile years in Dubai and London.

His familys Pheu Thai party is currently ruling the country.