Yesterday, the vibrant world of social media witnessed a resolute voice, a voice of a former leader passionately defending her honor. Yingluck Shinawatra, the former Prime Minister of Thailand, stepped into the digital spotlight via her official Facebook page, confronting a heavy judgment cast by the Supreme Administrative Court. This ruling demands a staggering sum of over 10 billion baht from her, in damages attributed to her administration’s ambitious yet tumultuous rice-pledging scheme. Curiously, she was never formally named as a defendant in this legal saga. With a tone both indignant and reflective, Yingluck labeled the judgment “deeply unjust.” Her sentiments draw sharp contrast to the verdict of a lower court that had previously absolved her of financial culpability. Yet now, she finds herself singularly blamed for the financial fallout, despite the scheme’s execution lying in the hands of agencies she argues were beyond her control. “10 billion baht –…
Posts published in “Thailand”
In an intriguing twist that feels straight out of a detective novel, investigators are delving into a web of financial mischief that has all eyes on Wat Rai Khing in the serene province of Nakhon Pathom. Imagine a case that intertwines monks, money, and a dash of high-stakes gambling; indeed, this tale features all the elements of a modern-day thriller! But don’t worry, our heroes in uniform have been unravelling the mystery with aplomb. This riveting investigation, spearheaded by the tenacious Pol Maj Gen Charoonkiat Pankaew, deputy commissioner at the Central Investigation Bureau, recently revealed some jaw-dropping findings. A staggering sum, north of 2 billion baht, has flowed through 84 bank accounts all tied to this high-profile embezzlement case. “Follow the money” has taken on a whole new meaning here! As the plot thickens, enter Pol Col Chamnan Chanthes, commander of the Anti-Corruption Division’s 5th subdivision, who, with his sharp…
As the political temperature rises in Thailand, the spotlight has shifted to the charismatic leader of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), Pol Maj Yutthana Praedam. Despite a heated petition by 22 senators urging the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to pull him from an inquiry into alleged election meddling, Yutthana is standing firm, embracing the wave of scrutiny with an unwavering confidence. In what can only be described as a dance of justice, Yutthana reassures onlookers that his investigation into the Senate election fracas is as lawful as a monk’s morning chant. Unfazed by the persistent calls for his dismissal, Yutthana couldn’t be less bothered. He expressed a James Bond-esque exasperation at the fuss, asserting that everything under his leadership proceeded within the tight rules of law. “Bring on the scrutiny!” might as well be his battle cry, as he steadfastly maintains that the DSI operates with impeccable authority and…
The Labour Department is joining hands with women’s rights advocates to create a more supportive workspace for women, especially during their menstrual cycles. On May 7, a letter was dispatched by the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare (DLPW) to provincial offices nationwide. This communiqué was a clarion call for employers to allow up to three days of paid menstrual leave per month, without these days counting against sick leave. Additionally, the initiative strongly encourages the provision of free sanitary pads as part of employee welfare. This step forward is the fruit of a labor-intensive dialogue between the Labour Ministry and a proactive network of migrant workers in the North, dating back to recommendations submitted on December 25. This collaboration underscores a commitment to tackle the plight faced by migrant female workers and bolster their workplace environment. Pushing the envelope further, the DLPW emphasizes the importance of equal access to…
When Senator Alongkot Worakee made a surprise entrance into the media circus, it wasn’t for a grand speech or heated debate but rather for an enigmatic linguistic twist. At the tender age of 61, the senator, who hails from the blue political fortress of Uthai Thani, found himself enveloped in a curious cloud of speculation, largely of his own making. He stunned the crowd, again, by dodging the relentless barrage of press inquiries with a simple, steadfast response delivered in a language not widely expected: “Je ne parle pas” [I’m not saying]. This intriguing replay was set in motion after his rather peculiar appearance before the Election Commission (EC) on a sunny Monday morning. They had called him, along with 54 other senators, to untangle a somewhat tangled web of Senate election collusion allegations stemming from the 2024 Senate election. Reporters, refusing to let go like a dog with a…
Amidst the verdant trails and sweeping sandstone peaks of Phu Kradueng National Park, a sparkling gem of a discovery has emerged, courtesy of an intrepid team of researchers from Chulalongkorn University. Imagine the excitement in the air as these dedicated botanists, armed with magnifying glasses and scientific zeal, ventured into the lush greenery of this natural wonderland, unearthing what might just be a treasure trove of leafy delights set to grace the pages of the world’s botanical records. Their mission was to explore the diverse realm of pteridophytes – spore-bearing plants like ferns, which possess an ancient lineage and elegance that would give any garden a run for its money. With the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation rallying behind them, this adventure in plants led to some sensational finds. Picture this: three species which have not just escaped the notice of botanists worldwide, but are entirely new…
On a bright, bustling Thursday, a notable figure took center stage in the heart of Thailand: Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. Known for his thoughtful reflections and nuanced perspectives, Phumtham addressed a gathering on an eventful occasion—the 10th anniversary of the 2014 coup orchestrated by the now-defunct National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO). With the historical weight of that day hanging in the air, he entreated the nation to draw lessons from the past to fortify the pillars of democracy. In a moment that oscillated between contemplation and pragmatism, Phumtham leveraged his platform to emphasize patience as a virtue. “History is our tutor,” he reminded the audience, underscoring that democratic processes, though at times arduous, should never be compromised for expedient gains. As eyes turned toward him, the question on everyone’s mind was simple yet loaded: Could Thailand witness another coup? “Such guarantees are beyond my reach,” he remarked with…
In the bustling heart of Thailand, where the rhythmic hum of traffic is as familiar as the sun setting over the Chao Phraya River, the air was abruptly shattered on March 15. A tragic mishap unfolded on the under-construction Rama III–Dao Khanong–Outer Ring Road Expressway. It was a day that would echo in the memories of many, particularly those finding themselves amidst the calamity. March 16 saw the diligent workers from the Expressway Authority of Thailand laboriously clearing the wreckage left by a collapsed beam. This wasn’t just any beam—it was a centerpiece of the new elevated Chalerm Maha Nakhon expressway on Rama II Road, nestled in the vibrant district of Chom Thong. The incident did more than clog the traffic—it also left a somber mark, taking five lives and leaving 22 others injured. This grave incident occurred near the Dao Khanong toll plaza on a stretch of the expressway…
As Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra strides confidently into the heart of London, her visit is no ordinary diplomatic affair. It is a mission that blends cultural export with strategic economic initiative, and its heart pulses with the rhythm of an ancient martial art — Muay Thai. Visiting a Muay Thai training facility in London, the Prime Minister highlights the sport’s explosive rise in popularity. With over 500 dedicated facilities now dotted across the United Kingdom, it’s clear that Muay Thai has muscled its way into the spotlight. The Prime Minister pledged to standardize training regimens to bolster its global reach — creating pact between sport and diplomacy. During her visit, Paetongtarn also sampled a slice of Asia by touring Wing Yip, an iconic Asian supermarket chain that stands as a bastion of multicultural flavor. Accompanied by a Thai delegation that included Deputy Permanent Secretary for Commerce Ekachat Seetavorarat, and Deputy…
Cannes, France – May 22, 2025 – The Cannes Film Festival, a glittering affair synonymous with cinematic excellence, once again played host to the illustrious Thai Night 2025, orchestrated by the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) under the esteemed Ministry of Commerce. This enchanting event, unfolding on Thursday, May 15, was not just a celebration but a strategic beacon aimed at amplifying the global footprint of the Thai entertainment industry while fostering a dynamic environment for international business networking. The event radiated with royal grace as Her Royal Highness Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya Sirivadhana Barnavadi presided over the ceremony. With an aura of inspiration, she delivered a keynote address that reverberated with the remarkable achievements of Thai cinema. Highlighting 2024 as a groundbreaking year, Her Royal Highness celebrated the industry’s unprecedented milestone—domestic revenues from Thai films surpassing 1 billion baht—an uncharted feat underscoring the unparalleled talent and creativity of the…