The chairman of the amnesty screening subcommittee revealed plans to submit former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's request to clear the stigma of his political cases to the next meeting of the Committee for the Promotion of Peaceful Society. He urged not to focus solely on the former PM's name but to view it as restoring justice for all parties involved.
At 12:42 on 26 Oct 2026 GMT+7 at the Government House, Piyasiri Watthanawarangkun, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice and chairman of the screening subcommittee under the Committee for the Promotion of Peaceful Society, spoke about the progress of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's request for amnesty to clear the stigma of his political cases under the 2026 Peace Promotion Act. He said he had only seen news reports about the submission to the main committee. When the matter reaches the screening subcommittee chaired by him, it will be reviewed straightforwardly. He confirmed that the issue has not yet arrived but once it does, the subcommittee will convene to consider all matters. Currently, preparations are underway to compile information for review.
Piyasiri said that unless there are errors, the main committee, which normally meets monthly, will hold a meeting to clarify the framework. Essentially, the amnesty concerns cases related to protests or actions against the state, granting forgiveness—what in Thai is called "ahosi" (absolution). Ultimately, interpretation rests with the main committee. He affirmed that nothing will be excluded; importance is given to all individuals, including prisoners and youth, not only the former prime minister.
When asked if approval by the screening subcommittee means it must pass the main committee, the permanent secretary said the screening committee's role is clear: the final decision lies with the main committee. This matter cannot be delayed. Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilprapunt, chair of the main committee, has ordered that it be done promptly and according to legal requirements. He acknowledged that scholars have differing views, but the subcommittee will summarize explanations and differing opinions before submitting them to the main committee.
Asked how many cases involve Thaksin, the permanent secretary said he did not know the details. Currently, the Ministry of Justice has tasked the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), the Department of Juvenile Observation and Protection, and the Department of Corrections to summarize how many cases there are and who is involved. About 80% of cases have been forwarded to prosecutors, so coordination is needed to clarify the status. At present, DSI has two cases.
When asked if the screening subcommittee feels pressured because of Thaksin's name, Piyasiri said no. He urged people not to think about names but to consider that everyone is Thai and deserves fair consideration.
When asked if the main Committee for the Promotion of Peaceful Society's decision is final, Piyasiri said the law grants authority to this committee, and he believes this opinion should be conclusive. Unless the petitioner is dissatisfied, in which case there are appeal channels. There are many people involved in political cases. Initially, rough figures come from various agencies such as the Ministry of Justice, prosecutors, and police. All data will be considered by the main committee. He confirmed that if the matter reaches the Ministry of Justice, they will expedite the entire review process. "We understand people's feelings; we want this to be resolved."