It’s a saga that seems straight out of a political thriller: former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, the charismatic yet controversial leader, is once again under the microscope. In the sweltering heat of Bangkok, on a forthcoming June 13, the Supreme Court will delve deeper into allegations surrounding the enforcement, or rather the alleged lax enforcement, of his prison sentence. This tale of legal intricacies has captured not just the nation’s attention, but the global stage as well. The most recent twist in this elaborate narrative came from none other than Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin’s own daughter. On the steps outside the governmental building, she confirmed with poise that her father would indeed grace the courtroom with his presence. This, however, sparks a narrative clash, as Thaksin’s legal representative, Winyat Chartmontri, had previously conveyed a different story, stating that Thaksin would not appear in person, opting instead to submit a written…
Posts published in “Thailand”
As the scorching rays of a Thai summer sun beat down on Nonthaburi province exactly one year ago, Senate candidates gathered anxiously for what would be the final round of voting. Fast-forward to today, May 14, 2025, and the shadows of those elections still loom large, playing out in a legal drama fit for a telenovela. The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has cast a wide net—one that’s swooped up about 1,200 individuals suspected of sordid machinations involving money laundering tied to vote-rigging. Yes, it’s a political potboiler that promises to keep your popcorn popping well past bedtime. At the heart of this investigation is the charismatic DSI spokesperson, Pol Maj Woranan Srilam. With an indefatigable spirit befitting a crime series hero, he announced on Tuesday that an electrifying inquiry symphony is currently forming, thanks to the DSI’s harmonious collaboration with the Election Commission (EC). The stakes are sky-high, and…
The vibrant heart of Thailand is abuzz with excitement as the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) throws its full support behind the magnum opus of global art, “KAWS:HOLIDAY THAILAND.” It’s a golden invitation for both Thai locals and the globe-trotting adventurers to delve into this spellbinding display that’s all set to leave its mark on the art world. This is a landmark moment for Thailand, as it hosts the larger-than-life COMPANION sculpture by the illustrious Brian Donnelly, artistically known as KAWS. The sheer scale of this endeavor is breathtaking, with the statue standing an astonishing 18 meters tall. The majestic Sanam Luang, an iconic and historic locale nestled in the lively heart of Bangkok, will proudly host this artistic marvel from May 13 to May 25. This isn’t just an exhibition—it’s a celebration that positions Thailand as the beating heart of global art and culture. Beyond its striking presence, this…
In today’s fast-paced digital world, our elders often find themselves vulnerable to the shadier corners of the internet. The heart-wrenching tale of a nearly 80-year-old woman being scammed out of 760,000 baht recently surfaced, a stark reminder of the dangers lurking online. This tale of deceit began innocently enough with friendly exchanges on social media but swiftly spiraled into a financial nightmare. The perpetrator of this cruel scam masqueraded as “Harry,” a supposed Vietnamese businessman residing in the UK. He spun a web of lies, portraying himself as a man caught in business woes and shipping snafus. Through carefully crafted conversations, he deceived his victim, inspiring trust and extracting money by tugging at her heartstrings. Over just four to five days, this charlatan manipulated her into transferring funds through internet banking and even visiting the bank to move money, amassing 760,000 baht (US$22,860) through a series of convoluted mule accounts.…
Celebrating a milestone of three transformative years at the helm, Bangkok Governor Chadchart unveiled his visionary “9 Aspects, 9 Improvements” policy. Amid the dynamic backdrop of Bangkok City Hall, a spirited gathering witnessed Governor Chadchart and his team of dedicated Deputy Governors outline a strategic course for a brighter tomorrow. The central theme? Harnessing technology and fostering a spirit of collaboration to catapult Bangkok into an era of prosperity and inclusivity. Governor Chadchart, with eloquence and energy, championed the principles of knowledge, technology, transparency, and empathy as the foundation of his administration. “Our mission is to foster mutual trust between the government, private sectors, and the public,” he asserted with conviction. “This trust is built on pillars of knowledge and technology, transparency and accountability, and above all, empathy. As we charge into the 4th Year, our vision is to transform Bangkok into a beacon of opportunity and hope, where no…
In a riveting twist of legal drama, former Premier Thaksin Shinawatra, the charismatic and controversial figure of Thai politics, is set to grace the Supreme Court with his presence on June 13. His attendance is fueled by the brewing debate over whether his prison sentence was fully enforced, a notion emphasized by his own daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who confirmed the news following their meeting this past Monday. Yet, this appearance promises its own share of courtroom theatrics, given it contradicts earlier statements by Thaksin’s lawyer, Winyat Chartmontri, who had claimed that Thaksin would submit a written defense rather than appear in person. Turning heads across the nation, the situation has been further intensified by the Medical Council of Thailand’s recent decision to take disciplinary action against three doctors involved in Thaksin’s treatment at the iconic Police General Hospital. This action has cast a spotlight on whether Thaksin’s medical…
In a recent statement meant to put a hush to swirling whispers, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra confidently assured the public that the coalition government is more solid than ever, fervently squashing any rumors about dissolving the House. With the crucial first reading of the 2026 fiscal year budget bill slated for May 28-30, anxiety buzzed around reports suggesting the Bhumjaithai Party, a vital government coalition member, might thumb their noses at the bill. Yet, with a calm demeanor, Ms. Paetongtarn seemed almost caught off-guard by such speculation. With a bemused smile, she questioned aloud, “Why should I dissolve the House? No House dissolution here!” The ever-curious media pressed on, suggesting the Bhumjaithai’s ire might stem from an ongoing investigation into an alleged vote-rigging scandal surrounding the Senate election the previous year. Observant insiders have noted a steady shift in the Upper House, now said to be swayed by a swarm…
In an unexpected twist of events, Thailand’s government has uncorked a fresh policy, setting the stage to expand the venues where clinking glasses and merry toasts with alcoholic beverages can take place on a daily basis. This novel law, which has already made a splash in the tourism sector, invites five exciting categories of venues to join the elixir-selling brigade. Fresh off the press, it was unveiled in the Royal Gazette last Friday and took effect with the enthusiasm of a New Year’s Eve countdown last Saturday. Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong radiated optimism as he discussed the breath of life given to this initiative. As the sun set on Friday, the age-old prohibition that reigned over the fervent Buddhist festivals such as Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, and Asanha Bucha began to take a new shape. Yet, this wave of new freedom is seasoned with respect, as the beginning…
In an exciting development for the bustling residents of Nonthaburi and the surrounding areas, the Department of Rural Roads (DRR) has pulled back the curtain on a remarkable new infrastructure project. With the flourish of a commuter’s dream come true, the inbound lane of the Maha Sawat Canal Bridge on Ratchaphruek Road has officially swung open its gates. This unveiling comes at a perfect time, coinciding with the onset of a bustling new school term and bringing a sigh of relief to the daily grind of traffic-worn residents. Mark your calendars for June 20, when the outbound lane is set to spring to life, promising a fully operational bridge that hopes to crush the plague of congestion that has long been the bane of this locale’s existence. It’s a significant milestone for Ratchaphruek Road—transforming the drive from nightmare to delight and giving a much-needed facelift to the everyday commuting experience.…
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is taking a thoughtful approach to its ambitious project of constructing a high-speed rail station in the ancient city of Ayutthaya. After consultations with international heritage specialists, SRT is embracing a meticulous blend of modernization and preservation to honor the city’s storied past. Leading the charge, SRT Governor Veeris Ammarapala announced the receipt of an insightful report from world-renowned organizations such as the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM) and the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS). These organizations, serving as the guiding stars for the World Heritage Committee, embarked on an informative visit to Ayutthaya from January 19th to 22nd. This visit wasn’t just a routine check; it was an immersive dive into the city’s rich tapestry of culture. The experts engaged in firsthand site inspections and meticulously evaluated the Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA)…