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Legal Debate Over Thaksin's Royal Pardon Request

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Thaksin-Shinawatra-Ballon-Bleu-Extra-Flat.jpg

File photo for reference only

 

Two legal experts have raised concerns over former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's recent request for another royal pardon, suggesting it could lead to legal repercussions for the justice minister. Thaksin's move for a second individual pardon has sparked debate over its legality since his original eight-year sentence was already reduced to one year through royal clemency. Lawyer Chao Meekhuad pointed out that such a petition may not align with the legal framework.

 

The initial clemency was issued through a royal command, altering Thaksin's sentence beyond the court's decision. According to Section 259 of the Criminal Procedure Code, only those "sentenced by final judgement" can apply for a pardon. Since the sentence was already modified, it may not fit this criterion. Chao emphasized that applying again may exceed legal boundaries.

 

Chao further highlighted Section 261, which obligates the justice minister to evaluate pardon submissions. Approving Thaksin's request, when it potentially contradicts the law, could constitute an abuse of authority under Section 157 of the Criminal Code. "Pardons are for those who show genuine remorse," Chao stated, cautioning against their misuse.

 

Senior prosecutor Poramet Intarachumnum agreed, noting Section 264's restriction on new pardon petitions within two years of a previous request being resolved, barring death penalty cases. This provision adds another layer of complexity to Thaksin's current application.

 

The legal debate highlights potential challenges for the justice minister, as any endorsement of the request might bring allegations of unlawful conduct. The situation underscores the importance of adherence to the laws governing royal pardons.

 

Looking ahead, the justice minister must carefully navigate this complex situation. Any decision regarding Thaksin's pardon request requires thorough legal scrutiny to avoid accusations of legal violations. The outcome will be closely watched, reflecting its implications on judicial procedures and authority.

 

Key Takeaways

  • Thaksin's new pardon request raises legal concerns under existing law.
  • Potential criminal liability for the justice minister if the request proceeds.
  • Legal provisions restrict new pardon applications, complicating the issue.

 

Related stories:

Confirmed: Thaksin Requests Royal Pardon After 1-Year Sentence

Thaksin Shinawatra Receives Family Visit in Prison

 

image.png  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-10-02

 

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Should be denied to set an example to all that misdeeds come with a price.

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Should rescind the original pardon and reinstate the 8 yrs 

It's interesting but only one person's opinion about it matters....

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A set of eleven-page documents addressed to the Prime Minister and dated September 23, revealing that the Ministry of Justice has rejected former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s latest petition for a royal pardon, has surfaced. The documents were reportedly signed by former Justice Minister Pol. Col. Tawee Sodsong.

 

They noted that while Thaksin accepted the court’s one-year prison sentence and implemented several beneficial policies during his tenure as prime minister, the court’s order must be upheld. The ministry agreed with the Department of Corrections’ recommendation to reject the petition.

 

https://x.com/ThaiEnquirer/status/1973763500205101518

 

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he fooled with a straight face 80 million thais (and the monarchy) by pretending to be sick and near death just to avoid going to prison. for this extra crime, he should get additional years behind bars ... instead, the criminal teflon toni shamelessly tries once more to use the monarchy for his own benefit ... I would see that as an insult against the monarchy ... no comment!

 

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52 minutes ago, motdaeng said:

he fooled with a straight face 80 million thais (and the monarchy) by pretending to be sick and near death just to avoid going to prison. for this extra crime, he should get additional years behind bars ... instead, the criminal teflon toni shamelessly tries once more to use the monarchy for his own benefit ... I would see that as an insult against the monarchy ... no comment!

 

He should get an OSCAR !

13 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Thaksin's move for a second individual pardon has sparked debate over its legality since his original eight-year sentence was already reduced to one year through royal clemency.

 

As I said before, he's a cry baby when things doesn't work out as he planned.

  • Popular Post
2 hours ago, motdaeng said:

he should get additional years behind bars

 

Indeed 8 of them!

  • Popular Post
15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Two legal experts have raised concerns over former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's recent request for another royal pardon, suggesting it could lead to legal repercussions for the justice minister. Thaksin's move for a second individual pardon has sparked debate over its legality since his original eight-year sentence was already reduced to one year through royal clemency. Lawyer Chao Meekhuad pointed out that such a petition may not align with the legal framework.

Legally he maybe entitled to ask for it... morally it stinks.

Already reduced by 7 years with a pardon he should serve this one.

7 minutes ago, hotchilli said:

morally

 

He doesn't have a moral..

2 minutes ago, watchcat said:

 

He doesn't have a moral..

Quite

UPDATE

 

Thaksin's Pardon Plea Denied by Thailand's Justice Minister

 

image.jpeg

Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra arrives at the Supreme Court in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Wason Wanitchakorn)

 

In a significant decision, Thailand's Justice Minister has denied former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s plea for a further Royal pardon of his one-year jail term. The rejection was outlined in a formal letter dated September 23rd, addressed to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul by then Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong. This decision sends Thaksin's request back to the Office of the Secretary-General of the Cabinet.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374889-thaksins-pardon-plea-denied-by-thailands-justice-minister/

39 minutes ago, webfact said:

UPDATE

 

Thaksin's Pardon Plea Denied by Thailand's Justice Minister

 

image.jpeg

Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra arrives at the Supreme Court in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Wason Wanitchakorn)

 

In a significant decision, Thailand's Justice Minister has denied former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s plea for a further Royal pardon of his one-year jail term. The rejection was outlined in a formal letter dated September 23rd, addressed to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul by then Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong. This decision sends Thaksin's request back to the Office of the Secretary-General of the Cabinet.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374889-thaksins-pardon-plea-denied-by-thailands-justice-minister/

Can Thaksin appeal, I wonder?

Is it so hard for judges to say what it legal and what is illegal? 

Just decide and abide by that.

17 hours ago, MikeandDow said:

Should rescind the original pardon and reinstate the 8 yrs 

 

Excactly.

20 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

request for another royal pardon,

 Good luck with this Mr T. 

With time served you will soon be released.

9 hours ago, Jim Blue said:

He should get an OSCAR !

I'd rather if Hollywood made a movie or documentary about Thaksin I would definitely watch it.

I thought the King decides who gets Royal Pardon

Jeez, the hate mob on here are like Don Quixote’s foot soldiers tilting at windmills.

To spew your venom at events over which you have no control and which have had no material negative effects on your lives is like p*ssing in the wind.

By all means fume at dual pricing, 90 day reporting, Anutin’s “dirty farang” comment, corrupt police, Suthep still free from charges.

Calm down Mr T haters. He’ll be out soon under home arrest cos of his age.

23 hours ago, Red Forever said:

Jeez, the hate mob on here are like Don Quixote’s foot soldiers tilting at windmills.

To spew your venom at events over which you have no control and which have had no material negative effects on your lives is like p*ssing in the wind.

By all means fume at dual pricing, 90 day reporting, Anutin’s “dirty farang” comment, corrupt police, Suthep still free from charges.

Calm down Mr T haters. He’ll be out soon under home arrest cos of his age.

A Thaksin fan. Your backing the wrong team! The King of Thailand and the army always wins.

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