Thaksin Shinawatra Seeks Royal Pardon from Jail Term in Thailand

Former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who recently returned to Thailand after 15 years in self-exile, has submitted a request for a royal pardon to King Maha Vajiralongkorn. Thaksin, who was ousted in a military coup in 2006 and later convicted of corruption, has been taken into custody but transferred to a hospital due to health issues. Analysts believe that Thaksin may have struck a deal with the country's conservative and royalist establishment for his return, potentially leading to a reduced jail term or lenient treatment. The application process for a royal pardon is underway, with the outcome dependent on the King's decision.