Minister defends Thaksin parole decision

Key facts

• The Justice Minister expressed confidence that a committee had thoroughly reviewed former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra's parole, insisting the decision was based on clear legal grounds amid criticism of the move.
• Pol Lt Gen Rutthapon Naowarat said on Tuesday that the approval of parole for Thaksin was based on a decision by the Ministry of Justice's parole committee on April 29. He stressed that the panel had carefully examined all relevant details before reaching its conclusion.
• Thaksin is scheduled for release on May 11, under conditions that include wearing an electronic monitoring bracelet. Claims that his age qualified him for special consideration do not meet the criteria, the minister added.
• Addressing a petition submitted earlier on Tuesday by political activist Dr Tul Sittisomwong opposing the parole, the minister said he had not yet seen the submission. However, he noted that any objections would be reviewed in accordance with legal procedures and could be referred back to the committee if necessary.
• "I believe the committee has already conducted a thorough review, which is why the decision was made," Pol Lt Gen Rutthapon said.