Nattawut confirmed that Thaksin will be released from prison around 8:00 a.m., will not give a speech, only wave to Red Shirt supporters, then return home. He acknowledged concerns about the electronic monitoring (EM) bracelet and believes Thaksin will not turn his back on politics. He thanked Anutin for expressing good wishes.
On 10 May 2026 at 17:02 at the front of Klong Prem Prison, Mr. Nattawut Saiyeko, election campaign assistant for the Pheu Thai Party and former Red Shirt leader, said it is a long-awaited day marking Thaksin Shinawatra's return to freedom tomorrow. Activities are underway today, and it is expected that the number of Red Shirt supporters will grow increasingly crowded in the evening, who come not only to support Thaksin but also to encourage each other.
Regarding the schedule reported, Thaksin is expected to leave Klong Prem Prison around 8:00 a.m., briefly greet the Red Shirt supporters, then travel back to his private residence. There will be no speech, only waving, as eye contact already expresses understanding with the Red Shirts waiting to welcome him. He apologized to the public for any inconvenience to traffic along the route, noting coordination with traffic authorities to minimize impact, though some travel difficulties may occur. The Red Shirts are ready to cooperate with traffic police if coordinated.
When asked what he would do upon meeting Thaksin, Nattawut said he would likely raise his hands in a respectful wai gesture but probably would not have much chance to talk due to limited time. He wanted to express that "for us, Dr. Thaksin Shinawatra is the Prime Minister with the most concrete achievements in Thai political history, the PM who received the highest electoral support, who had strong administrative capabilities and crisis management skills. He was also the PM most affected by political powers, especially coups and extrajudicial forces. We want to encourage him and affirm that coups are not the solution for the country. Those who have been wronged will not be left alone; the people will always support and stand by them."
Nattawut also addressed those opposing Thaksin's parole, asking them to consider the regulations and rules of the Department of Corrections, believing each step was carefully considered and that Thaksin met all criteria. Regarding the EM bracelet, he admitted it was a personal concern since Thaksin is over 70 years old and has no intention to flee, but accepted the decision and believed Thaksin is prepared to face all circumstances.
"If anyone says that Prime Minister Thaksin, upon release this time, will turn his back on politics and ignore the country's situation, that is not true. He will likely follow the news and offer opinions privately as part of his parole conditions, which makes public political expression inappropriate. Besides, currently, the Pheu Thai Party is not leading the government; the sitting Prime Minister has his own approach. As for former PM Thaksin, his concern for the country is like that of any Thai citizen, especially given the many current worries facing the nation," Nattawut said.
Nattawut further said he respects Thaksin's decisions, as he has rights like any Thai citizen. Given the wounds and trauma Thailand has endured over more than 20 years, if Thaksin now wishes to rest and discuss this privately with close associates as a matter of routine, he has no objection and will not urge him back into politics. He also thanked Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, for his kind wishes regarding Thaksin's parole. For those who dislike or do not support Thaksin, Nattawut believes it is unnecessary to gloat or exacerbate the situation.
Photo: Ekalak Mainoi
