Bangkok: The recent suspension of Mr. Boonsong Teriyapirom’s sentence has highlighted the Pardon Committee’s power in the Thai justice system, following a royal pardon. Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong, Minister of Justice, clarified that the committee, not the minister, holds the authority to suspend sentences and that similar practices are adopted worldwide to address criticisms regarding sentence reductions.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Col. Thawee discussed the case of Mr. Boonsong, a former Minister of Commerce, whose sentence was suspended following a royal pardon amid the rice pledging controversy during Ms. Yingluck’s government. He emphasized that the suspension process adheres to legal standards, with the Department of Corrections following laws that allow for sentence suspension under specific criteria, such as time served and domicile location.
Pol. Col. Thawee explained that Mr. Boonsong’s remaining sentence was reduced due to receiving four royal pardons, leaving him with roughly three years of
sentence. The suspension of his sentence is linked to his son residing in Chiang Mai Province, requiring Mr. Boonsong to wear an EM bracelet and report to the local Probation Department. This process, he noted, reflects the justice system’s aim to treat all individuals without discrimination, particularly in the context of the rice pledging case.
The minister also addressed the broader context of sentence suspensions, noting that they are typically determined by a committee comprising representatives from various justice sectors, including prosecutors, courts, and correctional officials. He highlighted that ministerial influence is limited in this process, ensuring decisions are based on collective committee resolutions.
In response to criticisms about the perceived leniency of sentence suspensions, Pol. Col. Thawee defended the practice by citing international examples, such as Malaysia, where a large number of prisoners receive suspended sentences annually. He argued that this approach recognizes human di
gnity and the potential for rehabilitation, particularly for older offenders, and aligns with criminological principles.
Furthermore, Pol. Col. Thawee clarified that while royal pardons are not governed by the Corrections Department Act, the suspension of sentences involves comprehensive consideration from the justice system, from arrest to court processes. The law, designed in 2017, underpins the committee’s role in sentence suspensions, reflecting a structured approach to justice and rehabilitation.