Justice Minister Denies Political Restrictions on Thaksin After Sentence Commutation, Cites Advanced Age as Ineligible for Electronic Monitoring
Justice Minister General Rutthapol Naovaratne denied that political restrictions are imposed on Thaksin Shinawatra following his sentence commutation, while confirming electronic monitoring conditions will apply despite arguments about his
On May 5, 2025, at Government House, Justice Minister General Rutthapol Naovaratne addressed the electronic monitoring conditions imposed on former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra following his sentence commutation and prison release. The conditions were issued in accordance with a Justice Ministry committee resolution from April 29, requiring Thaksin to wear an electronic monitoring bracelet. Regarding arguments about his advanced age, the minister stated these do not meet legal eligibility criteria.
When asked about activist Dr. Tuhlob Sithisomwong's planned objection to the commutation—based on the argument that Thaksin is not a model prisoner due to two previous convictions—the minister said he had not yet reviewed those specific arguments.
Concerning whether sufficient grounds exist to prevent Thaksin's release on May 11, the minister stated that relevant parties would need to examine the legal issues involved and potentially request the committee to reconsider. However, he expressed confidence that the committee had thoroughly examined all details before reaching its decision.
When asked if Thaksin could engage in political discourse after commutation, the minister clarified that such restrictions are not part of the conditions. Regarding international travel, the minister indicated it would be unlikely without court approval, though he noted that Thaksin could petition the court if necessary.
