Thaksin's Release On Parole Marks Execution Of Alleged Political Deal

Ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has left prison on parole, which marks the completion of an alleged political deal between the ruling Pheu Thai Party (PTP), widely seen as a vehicle of Thaksin's political influence, and their foes-turned-allies from the country's royalist-military establishment.

• Thaksin returned to Thailand after an election, in which his Pheu Thai Party emerged as a kingmaker. While front-runners Move Forward Party (MFP) were prevented from forming government through the use of "lawfare" by the outgoing administration, the PTP turned to the conservatives, with their coalition deal reportedly involving an unwritten agreement to allow for Thaksin's return.
• Thaksin's prison term was commuted to just one year and he was moved to a hospital for six months, after which he became eligible for an early release. However, a fresh investigation into his alleged breaches of the strict lese-majeste laws has been opened, keeping him vulnerable to potential legal action.
• Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said that he could offer Thaksin a role in government working committees but pushed back against claims that Thailand effectively had two Prime Ministers. Thaksin's release poses a test to his leadership, with Thaksin's daughter Paetongtarn serving as PTP leader.