Thai citizens question Department of Corrections’ parole powers

A NIDA opinion poll reveals that a significant percentage of Thai citizens are in disagreement with the Department of Corrections’ authority to sanction reductions in prison sentences and approve parole.

The survey sought public opinion on the department’s power to either reduce convicts’ imprisonment tenure or grant them parole. The responses were varied, with 40% categorically opposing it, 19.47% in full agreement, 19.16% slightly dissenting, 18.01% mildly agreeing, and 3.36% either indifferent or unaware.

The survey also sought responses on whether the department’s parole committee should include impartial and competent outsiders. The results showed 41.69% in total agreement, 24.58% mildly agreeing, 24.27% categorically opposing, 8.70% slightly dissenting, and 0.76% indifferent or unaware, reported Bangkok…