The Shinawatra family is celebrating former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra new life as a free man after receiving a royal pardon.
“I am so happy for my father and for our family, as well as other families who received royal pardons. Within our family, we have talked about it, but not extensively, just sharing how happy we are for our family,” Pintongta Shinawatra Kunakornwong, Thaksin’s daughter said with visibly deep emotion when talking to reporters this morning at a merit-making ceremony.
The ceremony, to mark the auspicious occasion of Her Majesty Queen Suthida’ birthday today, was held at Sanam Luang in Bangkok from 7.30am. It involved alms-giving to 149 Buddhist monks.
Pintongta attended with her husband, Nuttaphong Kunakornwong, and Pidok Sooksawas, her brother-in-law. When asked if there are any family vacation plans, Nuttaphong stated that nothing has been scheduled yet, but that today is a time of immense happiness.
When asked whether their lawyer had informed them of the next steps following the royal pardon, Pintongta said they are waiting for the official documentation first.
"Our family is incredibly happy," Pintongta said. "A significant period has passed and, while things are currently calm, we are overjoyed with what has taken place. We are deeply grateful for his freedom. Father is more comfortable now and, for the children and the family, this is everything."
