Thaksin Shinawatra meets probation officials ahead of schedule

Thaksin Shinawatra reported to the Department of Probation officials in Bangkok Noi district at the Bangkok Probation Office 1 on Monday, one day ahead of his scheduled visit.

This step is a part of 74 year old’s parole conditions, having been convicted and now serving his sentence in a more lenient form.

During his visit, the area around Bangkok Probation Office 1 was under heightened security, with access and parking strictly controlled. The duration of Thaksin’s visit was brief, ensuring minimal disruption to the daily operations of the office.

Under his current parole conditions, the former Prime Minister of Thailand must report to the Probation Department monthly for the initial four months. Following this period, his reporting frequency will be reduced to once every two months. The flexibility to reschedule these appointments, either earlier or later within a specified range, provides some degree of convenience to the ex-prime minister.

Thaksin came under scrutiny last week after meeting with representatives and government officials in Chiang Mai. Critics saw this as a political manoeuvre, sparking calls for a review of his parole conditions. However, Justice Minister Police Colonel Tawee Sodsong defended Thaksin’s actions, stating that the Corrections Act does not prohibit parolees from meeting with others.

Police Colonel Tawee even suggested that Thaksin could potentially accompany Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on field trips, provided it does not breach any of the Department of Probation’s 10 conditions, reported Bangkok Post.

This statement has added a new dimension to the ongoing discussions about Thaksin’s parole, hinting at opportunities for him to engage in public service alongside current government officials.

In related news, in an extraordinary meeting, PM Srettha, Thaksin and Somchai Wongsawat gathered for dinner last Friday in Chiang Mai. The trio, led by current PM Srettha, are set to gather as Thaksin, on parole, returns to his hometown for various engagements, including paying homage to his late parents.