Story perspectives

Thai King Pardons Thaksin on Queen’s Birthday

6/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

King Maha Vajiralongkorn pardoned former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra on Queen Suthida’s birthday.
The pardon released Thaksin from the remaining months of his one-year prison term for corruption and abuse of power.
Justice Minister Rutthaphon Naowarat said administrative steps must be completed before Thaksin can remove his electronic ankle bracelet.
Analysts say Thaksin is unlikely to retreat fully, noting his sister Yingluck Shinawatra remains in self-exile.

History

Historical Context

After the 1991 coup, Thailand’s first non-constitutional overthrow in fifteen years occurred on 19 September 2006 when General Sonthi Boonyaratglin dissolved the 500-member parliament, suspended the 1997 constitution and removed Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The king’s endorsement then gave the junta legitimacy. In 2023 King Maha Vajiralongkorn pardoned Thaksin on Queen Suthida’s birthday, reviving royal influence over the country’s fragile political balance.

1 of 2

Story summary

King Maha Vajiralongkorn pardoned former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra on Queen Suthida’s birthday.
The pardon released Thaksin from the remaining months of his one-year prison term for corruption and abuse of power.
Justice Minister Rutthaphon Naowarat said administrative steps must be completed before Thaksin can remove his electronic ankle bracelet.
Analysts say Thaksin is unlikely to retreat fully, noting his sister Yingluck Shinawatra remains in self-exile.

1 / 2