BANGKOK — Thailand’s Criminal Court on Friday acquitted former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra of lese-majeste charges, marking a significant legal victory for the influential billionaire and his powerful political dynasty. The case, stemming from a 2015 media interview given during his exile, was dismissed without the court immediately providing a public explanation.

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Thaksin, 76, smiled as he told reporters, “The case was dismissed,” after leaving the courtroom wearing a yellow tie—a color symbolizing loyalty to the monarchy. His lawyer confirmed the outcome to Reuters but declined to elaborate on the grounds for dismissal.

The charges were originally filed by the military, which accused Thaksin of violating Thailand’s strict royal defamation law during an interview with foreign media. Thaksin had consistently denied the allegations and reaffirmed his allegiance to the monarchy.

Despite holding no official government role, Thaksin remains a dominant figure in Thai politics. His daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leads the ruling Pheu Thai Party, which currently governs amid declining popularity and mounting challenges including border tensions with Cambodia and economic struggles.

#BREAKING Thaksin Shinawatra acquitted of lese majeste charges – leaves Criminal Court pic.twitter.com/HgJNqpBP5m

— Tommy Walker (@tommywalkerco) August 22, 2025

The acquittal is the first in a series of high-stakes legal decisions involving the Shinawatra family. Next week, the Constitutional Court will rule on whether to remove Paetongtarn from office over allegations of ethical violations related to a leaked phone call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen.

Thaksin also faces a separate Supreme Court ruling in September regarding whether his six-month hospital detention should count as time served in an earlier abuse-of-power case. If rejected, he could be ordered back to prison.

Friday’s verdict is seen as a pivotal moment in Thai politics, where lese-majeste laws have been used in over 280 cases in recent years. Critics argue the law suppresses dissent, while royalists insist it is essential to protect the institution of the monarchy.

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The court has yet to issue an official written statement detailing its reasoning.

-Thailand News (TN)