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Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The political landscape in Thailand is abuzz as former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra faces accusations of leveraging his wealth to secure power and privilege since his return from self-imposed exile. A joint petition has been filed with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) by a coalition of former Red and Yellow Shirt activists, urging an investigation into potential misconduct by high-ranking government officials. The core of the allegation focuses on Thaksin's controversial return to Thailand last year, following which he allegedly bypassed the country's legal and judicial norms. Since then, the billionaire, who is also the father of current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has been accused of manipulating the system to avoid serving a curtailed one-year prison sentence. Instead of serving time in Bangkok Remand Prison, Thaksin reportedly spent six months at Police Hospital, claiming critical health conditions—an assertion shrouded in secrecy and scepticism. Among those targeted by the allegations are several senior officials, including Justice Minister Thavee Sodsong, Undersecretary for Justice Pongsawat Neelayothin, Corrections Department Director-General Sahakarn Petchnarin, and Police Hospital Chief Doctor, Pol. Lt. Gen. Thavisilp Vechavitharn. The petitioners argue these officials abused their positions to grant undue privileges to Thaksin—an action they assert amounts to abuse of power and misconduct. The group of petitioners includes notable figures such as former Red Shirt leader Jatuporn Prompan, ex-Yellow Shirt leader and former senator Kaewsan Atibodhi, and Thai Pakdee chair Warong Dechgitvigrom. Their appeal for investigation comes hot on the heels of the NACC's decision to launch an ad hoc committee dedicated to examining these allegations of power abuse and misconduct linked to Thaksin's case. A prior effort by a fact-finding committee from the NACC found it challenging to gather concrete medical evidence to substantiate Thaksin's health claims during his stay at Police Hospital. The lack of significant medical records following his release on parole earlier this year only adds to the intrigue and suspicion surrounding his case. As the investigation unfolds, the specter of billions of Thai Baht looms over these accusations, drawing public and governmental scrutiny. The developing events are set to draw the nation and its observers' attention, raising questions about the influence of wealth and power within Thailand's complex political landscape, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-12-19

Russian Tourist Fined for Flashy Christmas Lights on Car in Pattaya Photo: The Pattaya News A Russian tourist in Pattaya, named Mr. Ivanov, was fined for decorating his car with flashing Christmas lights, unaware that it was against the law in Thailand. On December 17th, around 6:01 PM, Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346559-russian-tourist-fined-for-flashy-christmas-lights-on-car-in-pattaya/

Thailand rolls out red carpet with bigger rebates for filmmakers By Puntid Tantivangphaisal File photo for reference only The Thail Cabinet approved an increase in the rebate offered to foreign film productions, raising it to a range of 15 to 30% to attract more international filmmakers to shoot in the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346560-thailand-rolls-out-red-carpet-with-bigger-rebates-for-filmmakers/

Thailand Unveils E-Visa System, Streamlining Travel for 2025 Thailand has launched its pioneering Thai E-Visa system, set to revolutionise travel from January 1, 2025. This new digital approach will allow international travellers to obtain their visas online, eliminating the need for paperwork and embassy visits. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346569-thailand-unveils-e-visa-system-streamlining-travel-for-2025/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 19 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1346552-thailand-live-thursday-19-december-2024/

Photo by Ján Žilla via Canva Thailand’s first F1 race planned for Bangkok’s Chatuchak by 2027 By Petch Petpailin The Thai government is continuing the Formula One (F1) project initiated by former Prime Minister (PM) Srettha Thavisin, with plans to hold Thailand’s first F1 race in the Chatuchak neighbourhood of Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346547-thailand’s-first-f1-race-planned-for-bangkok’s-chatuchak-by-2027/

Thai Constitutional Court Dismisses Challenge to PM's Handout Policy FILE photo courtesy: Thai Rath In a significant legal decision, Thailand's Constitutional Court has dismissed a challenge against Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's controversial handout policy. The complaint, filed by activist Sonthiya Sawasdee, was rejected on the grounds that he wasn’t directly impacted by the policy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346542-thai-constitutional-court-dismisses-challenge-to-pms-handout-policy/

FILE photo courtesy: Thai Rath In a significant legal decision, Thailand's Constitutional Court has dismissed a challenge against Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's controversial handout policy. The complaint, filed by activist Sonthiya Sawasdee, was rejected on the grounds that he wasn’t directly impacted by the policy. Sonthiya's appeal centred around the alleged deviation from the Pheu Thai Party's electoral promise regarding the distribution of the 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme. The party, led by Paetongtarn Shinawatra, had pledged during their campaign to provide a digital currency, amounting to 10,000 baht, to Thai citizens aged 16 and above via a digital platform. The intended beneficiaries were estimated at approximately 50 million, with a stipulation to use the funds locally within their districts. However, the government's actual implementation diverged from the original plan. Instead of digital disbursement, the policy delivered 10,000 baht to specific vulnerable groups, such as the needy and disabled, in cash form. Plans are underway to extend this handout to also include the elderly, marking a significant shift from the campaign's digital promise. Sonthiya contended that the move breached the initial commitment and called for the court to consider suspending the Prime Minister if the case proceeded. However, the court's verdict articulated that the policy complaint appeared more as a political disagreement with the Pheu Thai Party rather than a matter of legal breach impacting Sonthiya directly. The court's decision underscores the complex integration of political pledges and their legal standing, drawing attention to the flexibility often required in policy execution post-election. This judgment not only reinforces the autonomy of elected officials in adapting policies but also highlights the legal system's role in delineating the scope of politically motivated litigation versus actionable legal grievances. As the government moves forward with its cash handout policy expansion to other qualifying demographics, this ruling may serve as a robust precedent for future policy-related challenges, encapsulating the nuanced balance between political expectations and practical governance realities. For citizens, the pathway remains clear: the continuation of cash handouts may, in fact, align more closely with immediate needs, especially in challenging economic climates. The outcome also points to the broader context of policy adaptation amid shifting socioeconomic landscapes, where political leadership must walk the tightrope of fulfilling campaign promises while pragmatically responding to the national context, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-18

Thai Central Bank Holds Interest Rates Steady Amid Economic Caution FILE photo courtesy: Bank of Thailand In a widely anticipated move, the Bank of Thailand announced on Wednesday that it would maintain its key interest rate at 2.25%. This decision comes after a surprise dip last October, marking the conclusion of the bank's final meeting for the year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346539-thai-central-bank-holds-interest-rates-steady-amid-economic-caution/

FILE photo courtesy: Bank of Thailand In a widely anticipated move, the Bank of Thailand announced on Wednesday that it would maintain its key interest rate at 2.25%. This decision comes after a surprise dip last October, marking the conclusion of the bank's final meeting for the year. The Bank's Monetary Policy Committee reached an unanimous decision, aligning with expectations from the majority of economists polled by Reuters. Out of 30 economists surveyed, just two had foreseen a further reduction, predicting a 25 basis-point cut. The consensus, however, suggests a potential decrease by mid-2025. This pause in interest rate adjustments arrives amidst ongoing economic challenges and calls from the Pheu Thai government for more aggressive measures to invigorate the economy. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavachira argues that with inflation lingering below 1%, the economy isn't demonstrating robust growth signals. Thailand, Southeast Asia's second-largest economy, has been trailing behind its regional counterparts. Factors such as high household debt and subpar export performance have impeded growth, as evidenced by last year's modest 1.9% GDP growth rate. The central bank contends that current low inflation figures are skewed by populist policies, specifically fuel subsidies, which obscure the true economic picture. The Bank revised its 2024 headline inflation forecast to 0.4%, down from an earlier 0.5%, which remains beneath the target range of 1% to 3%. Slightly higher inflation is projected for 2025 at 1.1%, albeit still below previous forecasts. Central Bank Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput clarified that the October rate cut was not indicative of a broader trend, suggesting a cautious approach moving forward. This sentiment was echoed by Supavud Saichuea, Chairman of the National Economic and Social Development Council. He highlighted that while fiscal policy would take a step back due to deficit concerns, monetary policy will increasingly become a pivotal force in promoting economic growth. Looking ahead, Saichuea forecasts that the Pay Committee are likely to commence key rate reductions in the latter half of 2025, potentially lowering the benchmark rate from 2.25% to 1.5% by year's end. This anticipated strategy underscores the central bank's role in maintaining economic momentum in lieu of fading government stimulus measures. As Thailand navigates these economic uncertainties, the central bank's cautious stance aims to balance stabilization with growth aspirations, keenly observing regional economic shifts while planned fiscal cutbacks may necessitate strategic monetary interventions, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-18

British mother’s tourist warning after drugs kill daughter in Thailand by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of the Daily Mail A grieving British mother urged tourists travelling to Thailand to steer clear of drugs after her daughter overdosed on a lethal cocktail of an unknown substance in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346510-british-mother’s-tourist-warning-after-drugs-kill-daughter-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy of the Daily Mail by Bob Scott A grieving British mother urged tourists travelling to Thailand to steer clear of drugs after her daughter overdosed on a lethal cocktail of an unknown substance in Bangkok. The 64 year old heartbroken mother, Anita Turner, from Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex, has been left shattered by the loss of her beloved 36 year old daughter Rebecca, who died in a Bangkok hotel room after snorting what she believed to be cocaine with her partner. It was tragically revealed that the powder Rebecca and her partner bought was a lethal cocktail comprising nine different drugs, including painkillers, sleeping pills, and anxiety medications. Anita now warns young travellers to resist the temptations of pushy street dealers, warning that you never really know what you’re getting into. “My heart is just broken in two. I can’t believe I’ll never see her again. Every morning, I look at her photo and just cry. It’s killing me. The pain of losing a child is indescribable. You can’t imagine such agony until it happens to you. There’s a massive drug problem out there, and you need to be really careful. It’s just not worth the risk.” Rebecca, who had been exploring Thailand, was set to return home in April, earlier this year, but tragically died on March 15. Having previously spent four years in Laos, a place she considered her second home, she had been attending a friend’s wedding before checking into Bangkok’s Khaosan Palace Hotel with Sam, her partner. CCTV captured Sam entering the hotel half an hour before Rebecca that fateful day, having texted a friend about purchasing cocaine, according to Anita. Tragically, both Rebecca and Sam were found dead around 1pm by concerned friends. Sam’s body was discovered in bed, Rebecca’s on the floor. Picture of Khaosan Palace Hotel courtesy of Alarmy Police later disclosed to Anita that Rebecca had a concoction of nine drugs in her system: including opiates, morphine, codeine, noscapine, and a slew of benzodiazepines. “So many people are dying, and they need to know about this. The road where Rebecca was staying is particularly notorious: a boy died of the same thing just a day before. I just want to shake people and tell them: please don’t take anything.” Though Anita received an autopsy report from Thailand, she claims sections were censored. A UK inquest into the tragedy is expected to be heard in January. Picture or Rebecca and her mother Anita courtesy of LBC Original story: Mother mourns British woman found dead in Bangkok hotel The heartbroken mother of a 36 year old British woman from Bexhill, East Sussex, southeast England has paid an emotional tribute to her daughter, who was recently found dead in a Bangkok hotel room. Rebecca Turner was on an adventure in Southeast Asia with friends when tragedy struck. Her mother, Anita Turner, described her as a vivacious and outgoing woman who lived life to the fullest. “Bec was always the life of the party, loved travelling the world, and made friends wherever she went.” During a four-year stay in Laos, Turner became an integral part of a local village community. “I’ve only recently discovered the depth of her impact, as many people from around the world and the Laotian community have reached out to me with heartfelt messages. Bec generously supported the local school, providing significant help. The village mayor even held a ceremony to thank her, which was truly touching.” Turner’s kindness extended beyond financial support. She and a friend from London often biked through the village, buying dolls from underprivileged children and redistributing them to those with nothing. After her death, an Irish bar where she was well-known held a memorial for her, and villagers queued to pay their respects. “Laos captured Bec’s heart, and she loved it there.” Turner had attended a friend’s wedding in Laos in February and spent some time there before heading to Bangkok, where other friends joined her. She planned to stay in Thailand for two months, with a return to the UK scheduled for April 16, just in time for a holiday in Peru, reported the Daily Mail. Tragically, on March 16, the British woman and her boyfriend were found dead in their Bangkok hotel room, reported Sussex Express UK. Turner’s body was repatriated to the UK, and her funeral took place on May 10 in Eastbourne. An inquest into her death is set to open next Tuesday, June 4. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-18

Pheu Thai: Panthongtae Shinawatra plays no role in govt by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Chanat Katanyu via Bangkok Post The Pheu Thai Party swiftly quashed rumours spreading across social media about Panthongtae Shinawatra’s alleged appointment as chief of strategy and national economy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346509-pheu-thai-panthongtae-shinawatra-plays-no-role-in-govt/

Photo courtesy of Chanat Katanyu via Bangkok Post by Puntid Tantivangphaisal The Pheu Thai Party swiftly quashed rumours spreading across social media about Panthongtae Shinawatra’s alleged appointment as chief of strategy and national economy. Chayapa Sindhuprai, serving as the party’s deputy spokesperson, made an emphatic statement on X, clarifying that these reports were unfounded and likely intended to sow confusion and damage the coalition government’s reputation. Chayapa asserted that during the Pheu Thai Party’s recent seminar in Prachuap Khiri Khan’s Hua Hin district, no such appointments were made. She further clarified that Panthongtae, who is the elder brother of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and a prominent figure in the Shinawatra family, holds no official role within the party or the Pheu Thai-led government. “The report is completely baseless and aims to create misunderstandings among the public.” The rumours began after a photograph of Panthongtae aboard a train to Hua Hin was shared online, accompanied by a caption suggesting he was attending the seminar in an official capacity as the “chief of strategy and national economy.” The post gained traction, prompting reactions from various figures, including legal expert Paisal Puechmongkol, who shared it on Facebook with a seemingly sarcastic congratulation for Panthongtae’s supposed new role. Meanwhile, Election Commission (EC) chairperson Ittiporn Boonpracong announced that the commission would review remarks made by Thaksin Shinawatra at the same Hua Hin seminar. Thaksin, a former premier and influential figure within the Pheu Thai Party, reportedly accused certain coalition parties of deliberately skipping a Cabinet meeting last week, raising questions about potential manipulation within the party. The EC has received four complaints alleging Thaksin’s undue influence over Pheu Thai. These complaints cite meetings between coalition party leaders at Thaksin’s residence before the selection of a prime minister to succeed Srettha Thavisin. Additionally, the government’s policy statement to Parliament, which some claim mirrors Thaksin’s vision as presented at a previous forum, is under scrutiny. The complaints were submitted by the Thai Pakdee Party, the Palang Pracharath Party, Noppharut Worachitwutthikun, a former leader of the political group Phirap Khao 2006, and an unnamed individual. The EC’s inquiry panel will be looking into these allegations thoroughly to ascertain any potential breaches of conduct within the party’s leadership dynamics, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-18

Foreign Patient Surge Strains Thai Border Hospitals Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's border hospitals are experiencing increased strain as more foreign nationals cross into the country seeking medical attention. This has raised serious concerns over the impact on healthcare resources and the accessibility of services for Thai citizens. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346505-foreign-patient-surge-strains-thai-border-hospitals/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's border hospitals are experiencing increased strain as more foreign nationals cross into the country seeking medical attention. This has raised serious concerns over the impact on healthcare resources and the accessibility of services for Thai citizens. The issue came to prominence after a medical professional made a public post on social media, highlighting the treatment of a pregnant woman from Myanmar. She and other foreign patients were reportedly taking advantage of Thailand's healthcare provisions, knowing they could obtain free or subsidised care for their children born in Thailand. This situation is indicative of a broader challenge faced by hospitals near the borders. Thailand has mechanisms like the Tor Ror 99 Fund, designed to aid individuals with unresolved residency status. While this fund aims to uphold humanitarian principles, it faces financial burden as more foreign nationals learn to navigate and access these benefits. Concerns are mounting that such practices might soon overwhelm the system, jeopardising healthcare quality and accessibility for Thai citizens. In response, Dr. Thanakrit Chitrareerat from the Ministry of Public Health explained that healthcare benefits in Thailand are typically reserved for legally registered workers. Yet, those entering illegally for medical care, particularly in border areas such as Mae Sot, are often provided with essential humanitarian assistance, reflecting Thailand’s commitment to human rights. Nonetheless, this influx places significant pressure on hospitals that must balance ethical medical care against their capacity. The increasing demand impacts waiting times and resource availability, making it more challenging for local Thai communities to receive timely care. The Thai government recognises the need to address these challenges through international cooperation. Talks with neighbouring countries could lead to agreements that enable shared healthcare responsibilities, possibly improving medical services on both sides of the border and alleviating some of the burdens on Thai facilities. Meanwhile, plans to enhance infrastructure and resources in border hospitals are being considered, targeting both immediate relief and long-term sustainability. Such measures are crucial to maintaining service provision without compromising on ethical and humanitarian standards. Ultimately, managing this complex issue requires coordinated efforts between the government, healthcare providers, and regional partners. Through collaboration and strategic improvements, Thailand aims to uphold its healthcare commitments while ensuring that its citizens receive the care they need, reported Thai Rath. -- 2024-12-18

Thailand Launches Tourist Police App to Aid Visitors Picture courtesy: Daily News The Tourism Police Division of Thailand, in collaboration with the tourism sector, has launched the "Thailand Tourist Police Application" to enhance visitor safety during the high season. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346502-thailand-launches-tourist-police-app-to-aid-visitors/

Picture courtesy: Daily News The Tourism Police Division of Thailand, in collaboration with the tourism sector, has launched the "Thailand Tourist Police Application" to enhance visitor safety during the high season. On 17th December, at Suvarnabhumi, the Tourist Police Headquarters, Police Lieutenant General Sak Seera chaired a meeting with over 50 representatives from relevant agencies, including the Department of Tourism, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and other tourism associations. The aim was to prepare for the influx of tourists expected in the coming months. The newly launched app allows tourists to contact the tourist police, report emergencies, and share their location online for immediate assistance, thereby ensuring greater security and peace of mind. This initiative aligns with government policies to enhance safety, satisfaction, and revenue within the tourism industry, providing both domestic and international tourists with a secure and enjoyable experience in Thailand during the busy season, reported Daily News. -- 2024-12-18

Thaksin's Call to Coalition Parties Could Lead to Parliament Dissolution Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thailand's political sphere is on the cusp of a major shake-up following former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's strong warning to coalition parties. Thaksin criticised members of the coalition who failed to attend a cabinet meeting on a new tax decree, labelling them as secretive dissenters. His fiery remarks suggest deep-seated internal conflicts within the government. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346501-thaksins-call-to-coalition-parties-could-lead-to-parliament-dissolution/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thailand's political sphere is on the cusp of a major shake-up following former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's strong warning to coalition parties. Thaksin criticised members of the coalition who failed to attend a cabinet meeting on a new tax decree, labelling them as secretive dissenters. His fiery remarks suggest deep-seated internal conflicts within the government. The tension arose when eight ministers, including leaders from the Bhumjaithai, Ruam Thai Sang Chart, and Democrat parties, were absent. They claimed prior commitments, seemingly wary of Thaksin's vocal discontent from abroad. However, seasoned political insiders understand the deeper implications of this political manoeuvring. The absent ministers' actions may signal the beginning of coordinated political moves, including dissent against laws strengthening military power. Meanwhile, outside the parliament, talks of cooperation with the People’s Party have emerged. If these alignments gain momentum, a new coalition government may form, posing a significant threat to the current administration. In anticipation of such developments, the ruling Pheu Thai Party might opt for a tactical dissolution of parliament to preempt motions of no-confidence or crucial legislative defeats. Yet, dissolving parliament could unleash further backlash and chaos, a situation reminiscent of the decision to exclude the progressive Move Forward Party from forming a government. This strategic misstep now seems to have unleashed an even greater political challenge. As the situation unfolds, unforeseen political shifts remain possible, warranting close attention from all quarters, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-12-18

Thai Cabinet Rejects Proposal to Abolish Capital Punishment In a firm stance against recent appeals for the abolition of the death penalty, Thailand's cabinet has unanimously decided to retain capital punishment in its legal system. This decision emerged after the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) advocated for a gradual end to this severe form of punishment, citing its abolition in many other nations as an impetus for change. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346500-thai-cabinet-rejects proposal to-abolish-capital-punishment/

Picture courtesy: Death Penalty News In a firm stance against recent appeals for the abolition of the death penalty, Thailand's cabinet has unanimously decided to retain capital punishment in its legal system. This decision emerged after the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) advocated for a gradual end to this severe form of punishment, citing its abolition in many other nations as an impetus for change. The cabinet, however, remained unconvinced by these arguments, with Deputy Government Spokesman Kharom Polpornklang affirming the need for the death penalty. The cabinet's decision aligns with views from the judiciary, which stress the necessity of such measures due to the severity and nature of certain crimes. The judiciary contends that the existence of capital punishment serves not only as a deterrent but also as a vital component of justice for heinous acts. The NHRC's proposal, presented at a seminar marking World Day Against the Death Penalty, suggested a phased approach to abolishing the death penalty. This plan included four strategic steps: refraining from instituting the death penalty in new laws, amending existing statutes to offer courts alternative sentencing options, reviewing the proportionality of current capital punishment laws, and ultimately, purging the death penalty from all legal codes. Despite the NHRC's efforts, the Thai government remains resolute. Their position reflects a broader societal debate on the balance between human rights and crime deterrence. While human rights advocates and various civil sectors back the NHRC's push for legislative reform, the government prioritises public security and justice. For context, Thailand has not carried out an execution since 2018, and it has been periodically pressured by international human rights organisations to re-evaluate its stance on the death penalty. Such entities argue that capital punishment is an irreversible act that has proven to be ineffective as a crime deterrent. Furthermore, they emphasise the importance of aligning with global human rights standards, particularly as Thailand is a key player in international discussions and the ASEAN community. At present, the cost of preserving the death penalty lies not only in potential human rights fallout but also in the broader implications for Thailand’s international reputation. With ongoing debates and human rights organisations keeping a watchful eye, Thailand's retention of capital punishment will continue to spark dialogue, both domestically and abroad, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-18

Phuket police pursue Uzbek man over fake US dollars exchange By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Eakkapop Thongtub Phuket police are on the hunt for an Uzbek national accused of attempting to exchange counterfeit US dollars at a currency exchange shop in Cherng Talay. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346444-phuket-police-pursue-uzbek-man-over-fake-us-dollars-exchange/

Thai Central Bank Under Pressure to Cut Interest Rates Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In an effort to invigorate inflation and support the Thai economy, Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavachira has renewed his call for the Bank of Thailand to lower its policy interest rate. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346443-bank-of-thailand-faces-pressure-to-cut-rates/

Thai Senate Approves Landmark Change to Child Discipline Law In a historic move for children's rights, Thailand's Senate unanimously approved an amendment to Section 1567 of the Civil and Commercial Code, transforming the regulations surrounding parental discipline. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346459-thai-senate-approves-landmark-change-to-child-discipline-law/