HM the King has granted a Royal commutation, reducing the prison term to be served by convicted former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra from eight years to one.
The commutation was announced in the Royal Gazette issued on August 31st and was countersigned by outgoing Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.
The Royal clemency was granted to Thaksin, who is now receiving medical treatment at the Police General Hospital, nine days after his return to Thailand.
When reaching the decision, His Majesty took into account the fact that Thaksin has been loyal to the Monarchy, he used to hold the position of prime minister and had implemented many works that brought benefit to the country and its people.
Additionally, when he was charged and sentenced to a serve time in prison, he acknowledged his wrongdoings and, ultimately, agreed to serve his sentence. He is also elderly and suffers medical conditions which require specialist medical treatment.
As such, The King decided to commute Thaksin’s sentence, in the hope that he will use his knowledge and experience to continue helping the country, society and the people, according to the Royal Gazette.