Thaksin Released as Thai Politics Shifts
Former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been released from prison after spending eight months behind bars, marking another dramatic chapter in Thailand’s turbulent political history. The 76-year-old left Bangkok’s Klong Prem prison on Monday to cheers from hundreds of supporters dressed in red, the symbolic colour of his political movement. Wearing a white shirt and appearing relaxed, Thaksin told reporters he was in good health and felt relieved after his release. Family members welcomed him outside the prison, including his daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who remains one of the leading figures of the Pheu Thai party. Thaksin’s release immediately reignited debate about his future influence in Thai politics, despite repeated claims from Pheu Thai officials that he plans to stay out of active political life. A billionaire businessman turned politician, Thaksin dominated Thailand’s political landscape after becoming prime minister in […]