Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been released on parole after serving eight months of a one-year sentence for corruption-related charges. He walked out of a Bangkok prison at around 7:40 a.m. local time, greeted by hundreds of supporters, family members, and political allies. Among those present was his daughter, Yingluck Shinawatra, who also previously served as Thailand’s prime minister. The Thai national anthem was played as Thaksin exited, and he paid respect to the national flag.

Thaksin, once a dominant figure who reshaped Thai politics, has seen his influence decline following his imprisonment and the poor electoral performance of his Pheu Thai Party. His parole period will continue until September 9, during which he is required to wear an electronic monitoring bracelet.

The release marks a significant moment in Thailand’s political landscape, as Thaksin’s return to public life could influence the country’s political dynamics in the coming months.