The Justice Minister has not yet seen any objection from Dr. Tul against the parole of Thaksin Shinawatra, believes the committee has carefully considered the matter, confirms there is no ban on political speech, and clearly emphasizes the requirement to wear an electronic monitoring (EM) bracelet. He also says that advanced age does not qualify for exemption.
At 09:35 AM on 5 May 2026 GMT+7, Police General Torutthaphon Naowarat, Minister of Justice, spoke at the Government House regarding the conditions for wearing the EM bracelet by Mr. Thaksin Shinawatra, former Prime Minister, after being granted parole from prison, stating that this follows the resolution of the Ministry of Justice's Parole Committee on 29 April 2026, which requires the wearing of an EM bracelet. Regarding claims related to advanced age, Police General Torutthaphon said this does not meet the criteria.
Concerning the case where Dr. Tul Sitthisamwong, a political activist, plans to file an objection to Mr. Thaksin's parole, arguing that Thaksin is not a model prisoner since he has been sentenced twice by the court, the Justice Minister said he has not yet seen this objection. When asked if this would be sufficient to prevent Thaksin's parole on 11 May, Police General Torutthaphon said it depends on the specific issues, and related parties will need to review the legal aspects. The committee might have to reconsider and provide further opinions. However, he believes the committee has already examined the details thoroughly, which led to the current outcome.
When further asked, if Thaksin, upon parole, would be allowed to speak on political matters, Police General Torutthaphon responded that this is not a condition. Regarding whether Thaksin would be able to travel abroad, Police General Torutthaphon said this is unlikely, but if necessary, an application can be made to the court for consideration.