Ruttapol explained that Thaksin's parole follows legal procedures, having served two-thirds of his sentence, currently awaiting further steps. He withheld the names of 10 MP candidates involved with gambling and scammers, stating investigations are ongoing and denied any political persecution.
At 11:30 a.m. on 20 January 2026 GMT+7 Police Lieutenant General Ruttapol Nawarat, Minister of Justice, spoke at the Government House regarding the parole of Mr. Thaksin Shinawatra, former Prime Minister, whose sentence is due to complete around May 2026, stating everything is in accordance with the law, and Thaksin has served two-thirds of his sentence, so the parole is normal procedure. A working committee starting from the prison, including representatives from agencies, reviews the case, with screening at the Director-General level of the Department of Corrections before submission to the main committee for final consideration, but ultimately, the signing authority lies with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice.
When asked about another case involving Thaksin under Section 112, which is under appeal, Police Lieutenant General Ruttapol said that it is up to the main committee to reconsider. When pressed on the likely timing of Thaksin's parole based on criteria, Ruttapol replied it would be around May, after passing review by three committees.
Regarding whether the parole process would be the same as the first time, Ruttapol clarified it would differ because this time it follows the law. Asked about possible reasons if parole is denied, he said he did not know and that the main committee, which includes representatives from various agencies, would consider any such reasons and make a decision. Asked if the parole was not politically motivated, given its possible impact on upcoming elections, Ruttapol responded that it is not, as it concerns legal matters.
Meanwhile, Ruttapol also provided an update on the investigation of 10 MP candidates involved with gambling websites and scammers. He said the investigation team is still gathering evidence and working with agencies including the Royal Thai Police and the Department of Special Investigation. Revealing details now could lead to legal action against him, so he cannot disclose anything yet.
When asked if revealing names close to the election could be seen as political persecution, Ruttapol said, "It is not political persecution. Many cases have been acted upon but did not make the news because we feared political connections would be drawn." Asked how many of the 10 candidates have already been investigated, Ruttapol revealed, "The investigation is ongoing. I cannot disclose details yet. I don't want to go to jail in old age."