Thai court acquits former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra of royal defamation charge

Key Takeaways:

• Thaksin Shinawatra is Thailand’s former Prime Minister.
• He faced a royal defamation charge.
• The offense carried a potential prison sentence of up to 15 years.
• The Bangkok Criminal Court acquitted him of all charges.
• This development was reported by The Sun Chronicle on August 22, 2025.

Introduction

Thailand’s former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been acquitted of a serious royal defamation charge. The case garnered attention across the country, as the allegation carried a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison.

The Legal Charges

Thaksin Shinawatra, once a prominent leader in Thai politics, faced accusations of defaming the monarchy. Under Thailand’s strict laws, royal defamation is viewed as a severe offense. The high-stakes nature of the charges underscored the gravity of the situation.

The Court’s Decision

In a decision that closes a pivotal legal chapter, the Bangkok Criminal Court ruled that Thaksin Shinawatra was not guilty of royal defamation. Although no further details of the court’s findings were provided in the accessible news content, the acquittal brings relief for the former prime minister and his supporters.

Significance of the Verdict

The conclusion of this case highlights the enduring importance of legal proceedings involving Thailand’s monarchy. Thaksin Shinawatra, a notable figure in Thai history, avoids a prison term that could have stretched to 15 years. The verdict marks the end of a closely watched trial, as reported by The Sun Chronicle on August 22, 2025.