Supporters of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra waited with bated breath outside the Pheu Thai Party’s headquarters in bustling Bangkok on a sunny day in March. They stood there, hopeful and determined, amid a sea of red shirts and waving flags, driven by the unwavering loyalty they hold for the man who once led the nation. Thaksin, the ever-controversial figure in Thai politics, declared this past Saturday that he was ready to confront the storm of charges against him. These weren’t just any charges but the grave accusations of insulting the monarchy, a charge under Section 112 of the Criminal Code that can shatter lives with a maximum 15-year prison sentence for every alleged defamation against the royal family. Nevertheless, Thaksin remained steadfast. “It’s nothing. The case is baseless,” he asserted with an unflappable air of confidence, ready to meet the prosecutors on June 18. The wheels of justice spun…
Posts published in “Thailand”
The atmosphere is charged with anticipation as Election Commission Chairman Itthiporn Boonpracong steps into the room, making an inspection visit to oversee the preparation for Sunday’s much-anticipated Senate polls. His presence is a beacon of the dedication and meticulous planning behind this pivotal event. The Election Commission’s Facebook page buzzes with updates and snapshots, offering a glimpse of the orderly chaos behind the curtain. In the calm before the electoral storm, around 20,000 police officers stand at the ready, their mission clear. Pol Lt Gen Kornchai Klayklueng, an Assistant National Police Chief, sets the scene with his authoritative briefing. Officers are tasked with ensuring the smooth transport of ballots to and from election venues and, more critically, to uphold the integrity of the entire voting process. An added layer of responsibility comes with the directive to maintain political neutrality, a cornerstone of a fair election. These officers are also working…
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin recently captivated an audience at a tourism event’s grand opening during his visit to the enchanting city of Chiang Mai. With fervor and enthusiasm, PM Srettha extolled Chiang Mai’s potential to transform into a premier digital startup hub in Southeast Asia. His vision was clear: the government is poised to back the province in realizing this high-tech ambition. Chiang Mai, often hailed as a digital nomad’s paradise and one of the globe’s most creative cities, caught the discerning eye of PM Srettha. No stranger to high accolades, he recalled a conversation with Tim Cook, CEO of Apple Inc., who shared that Thailand boasts over 300,000 application developers, making it the second-largest pool in Southeast Asia. Such talent, Srettha noted, perfectly positions Chiang Mai to lead in the digital realm. Highlighting Chiang Mai’s allure, PM Srettha mentioned its recognition as one of the top 10 global hotspots…
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is proposing a thrilling new concept to draw international travelers— “ghost tourism.” Aiming to capitalize on the global fascination with horror-themed sites, this initiative hopes to enhance Thailand’s soft power on the world stage. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, the deputy TAT governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the United States, believes that Thailand’s unique ghost myths and associated films are cultural treasures that have already gained international recognition. In a recent discussion with the Spanish ambassador to Thailand, Cheawsamoot revealed that Spanish tourists have expressed a distinct interest in visiting haunted locations with captivating backstories. Despite the apparent demand, the TAT has yet to officially promote this niche market, even though the country abounds with potential sites brimming with spectral lore. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, the TAT governor, shared some exciting news over the weekend. She announced that the promotion of Thailand’s soft power has been…
In the enchanting land of Ayutthaya, something utterly extraordinary has taken place. A magnificent 36-year-old elephant named Chamchuree has astounded everyone by giving birth to a delightful pair of twins, a male and a female, a joyous rarity in the world of pachyderms. This magnificent event was officially announced by the Phra Kochaban Foundation. The dramatic entrance of these precious twin elephants into the world took place in the Royal Elephant Kraal Village, nestled in the historic district of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, on a serene Friday night. Laithongrian Meephan, the proud president of the foundation, couldn’t contain his excitement as he shared the news on the following Saturday. Chamchuree, with her maternal grace, first introduced the male calf who tipped the scales at a robust 80 kilograms. Just a mere 18 minutes later, the village was blessed with his sister, a charming female calf weighing in at a dainty…
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin delivered an inspiring speech at the inauguration of a tourism event during his visit to the picturesque province of Chiang Mai on Saturday. (Photo: Thai Khu Fah Facebook) During this eventful visit, Mr. Srettha expressed his strong belief in Chiang Mai’s potential to evolve into a leading digital startup hub within Southeast Asia. He assured that the government stands ready to support the province in realizing this ambitious goal. Lauding the city, he described it as a haven for digital nomads and one of the most creative cities in the world. Reflecting on a memorable conversation with Tim Cook, CEO of Apple Inc., Mr. Srettha shared that Thailand is home to over 300,000 application developers from around the globe, making it the second largest in Southeast Asia. This, he pointed out, underscores the country’s burgeoning digital prowess. Chiang Mai itself ranks among the world’s top 10…
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin recently enjoyed an old-fashioned samlor ride to the Lamphun provincial hall, embodying a commitment to traditional values even as modern challenges loom. (Photo: Government House) In the midst of a rapidly transforming automotive industry, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has reassured the public that the decision made by Suzuki Motor Corporation to shut down its plant in Rayong won’t lead to an exodus of other auto manufacturers from Thailand. Suzuki announced on Friday its plan to close the 12-year-old facility by the end of 2025, impacting 800 workers, as the company shifts its focus to the production of electric vehicles (EVs) elsewhere. Underlining the Thai government’s commitment to the automotive sector, Mr. Srettha emphasized the ongoing significance of Japanese combustion engine vehicles. Meetings with major industry players such as Toyota, Honda, Isuzu, Mazda, and Mitsubishi have been held to address their requirements from the government, ensuring their…
In an exciting turn of events, His Majesty the King has bestowed the honor upon Phattarasak Wannasaeng, appointing him as a distinguished member of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). He steps into the shoes of Natthachak Pattamasigh, who gracefully exited upon reaching the mandatory retirement age. This significant appointment was formally announced on June 4 and published in the illustrious pages of the Royal Gazette on June 8, marking an instant onset of Mr. Phattarasak’s new responsibilities. The nomination of Mr. Phattarasak as an NACC member did not happen overnight; it was with the resounding endorsement of the caretaker Senate that he ascended to this pivotal role. Known for his unwavering integrity and dedication, Mr. Phattarasak is poised to bring a fresh wave of commitment to the fight against corruption. Amidst the buzz surrounding Mr. Phattarasak’s appointment, the Office of the NACC has also thrown open its doors, inviting seasoned…
Good news straight from the Royal Gazette! His Majesty the King has officially appointed Phattarasak Wannasaeng as the newest member of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). This fresh appointment fills the shoes of Natthachak Pattamasigh, who recently stepped down due to his mandatory retirement. The formal announcement, dated June 4 and published on June 8, signals the immediate commencement of Mr. Phattarasak’s duties. It’s worth noting that Mr. Phattarasak’s nomination didn’t just happen overnight; it was thoroughly vetted and endorsed by the Senate, no less. This kind of backing highlights the faith and confidence placed in him to tackle the enduring challenge of corruption. And let’s be honest, it’s no small task! But wait, there’s more happening in the corridors of the NACC. The Office of the NACC is currently on the hunt for a new secretary-general, and they are calling on all qualified candidates to step forward and apply.…
Well, here’s some cosmic news that’s sure to add a sprinkle of stardust to your day! Astrologer extraordinaire Phanuwat Phanwichartkul has ascended to celestial heights, thanks to an appointment by none other than His Majesty the King. Alongside Pol Maj Gen Pisit Pao-in, these two distinguished gentlemen are set to succeed recently departed senators, according to the Royal Gazette announcement on June 7. So, who has Phanuwat and Pisit replaced, you might wonder? The spots opened up with the passing of Adm Saksit Cherdboonmuang and Monthian Buntan, leaving the Senate seats yearning for some new energy. And as fate or stars would have it, Phanuwat and Pisit were pegged to fill the void. Officially, their roles started back on May 10, as per the announcement on June 4, in line with Section 269 of the constitution. You might be curious about the tenure of the previous gang of senators –…