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Minister Dismisses Claims of Detention Rule Favouring Yingluck FILE - Thailand’s former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatr. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong has swiftly dismissed suggestions that a proposed regulation on detaining inmates outside of prison facilities might benefit former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra, who is currently a fugitive. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345412-minister-dismisses-claims-of-detention-rule-favouring-yingluck/

FILE - Thailand’s former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong has swiftly dismissed suggestions that a proposed regulation on detaining inmates outside of prison facilities might benefit former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra, who is currently a fugitive. The regulation in question stems from the 2017 Corrections Act, which allows for alternative detention options for certain categories of prisoners, such as those who are seriously ill, pregnant, elderly, or deemed low risk for reoffending. However, Minister Tawee clarified that while the framework exists, additional operational guidelines and eligibility criteria need to be established before implementation. Minister Tawee emphasised that these additional rules require public feedback before being finalised and published in the Royal Gazette. The intention is to pilot the regulation carefully, ensuring its suitability and effectiveness. To qualify for this alternative form of detention, inmates would need approval from a specific screening panel, formed under the Department of Corrections. Only after these comprehensive criteria are fully developed will the regulation proceed to an experimental phase. When probed about the implications for Yingluck, who fled Thailand in August 2017, Minister Tawee categorically denied any connection. Yingluck was sentenced in absentia to a five-year prison term for negligence related to a rice-pledging programme that resulted in substantial financial losses, estimated at a hefty ฿500 billion. Recent remarks from Nipit Intarasombat, a former MP for Phatthalung, have stirred speculation. Nipit suggested that discussions are underway regarding Yingluck's potential return to Thailand, spurred by comments from her brother, former PM Thaksin Shinawatra. Nipit asserted that the new detention regulation might enable Yingluck to evade incarceration upon her return. However, the government has consistently refuted claims that the regulation is designed with Yingluck or any specific individual in mind. The intent is to explore humane and practical detention options within the legal framework, ensuring justice while addressing individual circumstances fairly and transparently. The ongoing discussions on the regulation underscore the complexities of balancing justice system reforms with political sensitivities, as Thailand navigates through its intricate political landscape, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-05

Phuket Unfazed by Terror Threats to Israeli Tourists File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Phuket remains poised and undeterred despite recent warnings from Israel regarding potential terrorist threats targeting Israeli citizens in Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345411-phuket-unfazed-by-terror-threats-to-israeli-tourists/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Phuket remains poised and undeterred despite recent warnings from Israel regarding potential terrorist threats targeting Israeli citizens in Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand. The threats were highlighted following the assassination of an Israeli rabbi in the United Arab Emirates, raising concerns for Israeli tourists in popular destinations like Phuket. The Phuket Tourist Association (PTA) has reassured tourists of their bolstered security measures. Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, the PTA's advisory chairman, emphasised that despite global conflicts over the past two years, Phuket has consistently welcomed tourists from all backgrounds without mishaps. He assured that local security forces are vigilant and prepared for any threats. Phuket boasts an extensive network of CCTVs, and thorough checks are in place at airport immigration points. Security patrols, both on land and sea, are regularly conducted by the Royal Thai Navy's 3rd Area Command, ensuring a secure environment for all visitors. As the high season approaches, Phuket's hotels are witnessing strong booking trends, with some even facing overbookings, according to Mr Bhummikitti. The constant flow of visitors indicates undiminished confidence in the island's safety. Adding to the confidence, Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, president of the PTA, remarked that additional personnel have been deployed by both Phuket's provincial and tourist police at key tourist attractions. The tourism scene remains vibrant, with Israel's national airline, El Al, maintaining its regular direct flights from Tel Aviv to Phuket, undeterred by any threat. Mr Bhummikitti pointed out that the major hurdle for Phuket's tourism industry isn't terror threats but rather the slow development of public infrastructure, which can sometimes lag behind the island's expanding needs. Data from the Tourism Authority of Thailand's (TAT) Phuket office shows that the island welcomed over 10 million visitors in the first ten months of the year, contributing approximately ฿390 billion. Despite global tensions, Israeli arrivals showed only a slight decrease, numbering around 57,000 within the same period. Lerdchai Wangtrakoondee, director of TAT's Phuket office, expressed optimism for the year's tourism revenue, anticipating a new high between ฿450 billion and ฿500 billion, surpassing 2019's record of ฿440 billion. The diversity of Phuket’s tourism, attracting visitors from Australia to Saudi Arabia, underscores the resilient appeal of this tropical haven. Phuket's robust security frameworks and enduring allure make it a steadfast destination amid a turbulent global backdrop, reassuring tourists of their well-being amid journey bliss, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-05

Photo via TikTok/ @tukgii3 Foreign driver at large after hit-and-run and chase in Bangkok - video By Petch Petpailin A foreign driver managed to flee following a hit-and-run in the On Nut area of Bangkok and a high-speed chase with Thai motorcycle taxi riders. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345357-foreign-driver-at-large-after-hit-and-run-and-chase-in-bangkok-video/

British Man Arrested for Sexual Assault of 6-Year-Old Thai Stepdaughter Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a shocking turn of events, Thai police arrested a British national, Mr. Luke, accused of sexually assaulting his 6-year-old Thai stepdaughter. The arrest, which took place in a condominium in Pattaya, Chonburi, followed a warrant issued by the Thai Criminal Court on 2nd December 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345333-british-man-arrested-for-sexual-assault-of-6-year-old-thai-stepdaughter/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a shocking turn of events, Thai police arrested a British national, Mr. Luke, accused of sexually assaulting his 6-year-old Thai stepdaughter. The arrest, which took place in a condominium in Pattaya, Chonburi, followed a warrant issued by the Thai Criminal Court on 2nd December 2024. Major General Saruti Kwangsopha, Commander of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division, led the operation alongside other senior officers. Mr. Luke faces charges of "rape and sexual abuse of a minor under 13," among other serious offenses. The investigation began after Thai authorities received a tip-off from the UK's National Crime Agency (NCA). The agency uncovered disturbing videos of Mr. Luke abusing the child on social media. Upon reviewing the footage and identifying the location, police discovered that the victim, referred to as Miss A (pseudonym), was the young daughter of Mr. Luke's Thai partner, Miss B (pseudonym). The couple had been together for over two years. When presented with the evidence, Miss B was reportedly horrified and immediately filed a complaint with the police, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant. Crucial evidence was gathered, resulting in Mr. Luke's capture. During questioning, Mr. Luke denied all allegations and chose not to provide a statement during the arrest. He has since been handed over to prosecutors for further legal proceedings. This case underscores the importance of international cooperation in tackling such crimes and serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable individuals from abuse, reported Thai Rath. -- 2024-12-04

Trolley folly: Tipsy tourists’ wild hotel ride in Koh Phi Phi (video) by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Holidify In the latest wild escapade from the sun-soaked shores of Thailand, two young female tourists were given a ride of shame as local police were forced to wheel them back to their hotel on a shop trolley. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345326-trolley-folly-tipsy-tourists’-wild-hotel-ride-in-koh-phi-phi-video/

Picture courtesy of Holidify by Bob Scott In the latest wild escapade from the sun-soaked shores of Thailand, two young female tourists were given a ride of shame as local police were forced to wheel them back to their hotel on a shop trolley. In a scene right out of a holiday nightmare, 19 year old Australian Tahli Benson and 23 year old German Sina Baumann found themselves being wheeled through the streets of Koh Phi Phi Island on a seemingly ordinary night gone awry. After reportedly knocking back one too many on the evening of November 19, The Metro reported that the duo passed out cold, unable to be revived by concerned onlookers. With the road too narrow for a car, enterprising police officer Saneh Jualong commandeered a nearby store’s pushcart to resolve the boozy fiasco. A viral video capturing the staggering sight showed the two women drooped over the trolley, as Officer Jualong valiantly rolled them across the bustling street back to the sanctuary of their hotel. Once there, their friends whisked them off to their rooms, though not before the kind-hearted officer Saneh reportedly helped tuck one of the inebriated party-goers into bed, according to News.com.au. Koh Phi Phi Island, famed for its stunning vistas and lively nightlife, is no stranger to such rowdy episodes. Police Superintendent Surasak Jaidee acknowledged this wasn’t an isolated incident, as officers have often assisted merrymaking tourists. Pictures of the two drunk tourists courtesy of the Metro In the face of such revelry, Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health is now urging establishments to consider breathalyzer tests for patrons, in a bid to bolster tourist safety. Being drunk and disorderly and in trouble in Thailand is nothing new. Last month a British tourist’s night in Pattaya went from bad to worse after he found himself in a brawl with two locals who’d offered to drive him home. Too drunk to secure a taxi, the man, thought to be in his 60s, ended up battered on the pavement with a broken nose, bruises, and cuts—after allegedly turning on his would-be rescuers. Pattaya City police responded around 3am on November 19, on Pattaya Sai 3 Road, where they found the British man injured and unable to provide coherent details due to his intoxicated state. According to a witness, identified only as Rattapon, the drama unfolded after a white pickup truck stopped, and a Thai man pulled the British man out, leaving him on the roadside. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-04

Thailand faces worsening air quality crisis, health warnings issued by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of MGR Online Thailand’s air quality has significantly deteriorated, with 20 provinces reporting pollution levels exceeding health standards. The most severe pollution is found in Pak Kret, with Bangkok also experiencing widespread poor air quality. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345323-thailand-faces-worsening-air-quality-crisis-health-warnings-issued/

Picture courtesy of MGR Online by Bright Choomanee Thailand’s air quality has significantly deteriorated, with 20 provinces reporting pollution levels exceeding health standards. The most severe pollution is found in Pak Kret, with Bangkok also experiencing widespread poor air quality. The air quality is expected to worsen between tomorrow and December 7, prompting health advisories for residents to limit outdoor activities and wear masks. The Air Pollution Solution Communication Centre reported that the concentration of PM2.5 particles (fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns) has been monitored countrywide. These particles pose significant health risks as they can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. Air quality monitoring over 24 hours revealed PM2.5 levels ranging from 11.3 to 83.1 microgrammes per cubic metre (μg/m³), surpassing the safety threshold of 37.5 μg/m³. Bangkok and its surrounding areas, including Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, Samut Prakan, Phitsanulok, Phichit, Phetchabun, Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Lop Buri, Saraburi, Ang Thong, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, and Samut Songkhram, are among the affected provinces. In the north, PM2.5 levels ranged from 6.6 to 49.9 μg/m³, impacting air quality in five areas. The northeast recorded levels between 17.0 and 38.2 μg/m³, affecting air quality in one area. The central and western regions reported PM2.5 concentrations from 21.4 to 69.0 μg/m³, mostly impacting health. Eastern regions measured levels from 20.7 to 39.4 μg/m³, affecting two areas, while the south recorded 11.3 to 38.3 μg/m³ in one area. Bangkok and its vicinity experienced PM2.5 levels ranging from 25.8 to 83.1 μg/m³. The highest pollution level in Thailand was recorded in Bang Phut, Pak Kret, and Nonthaburi, at 83.1 μg/m³. Forecasts suggest increasing PM2.5 concentrations from tomorrow to December 7 in Bangkok and its vicinity, necessitating ongoing vigilance in certain areas. The northern region is expected to continue improving, though monitoring is advised in some areas. The northeast is predicted to see rising levels from tomorrow to December 10, requiring caution in certain locations. The eastern region is anticipated to improve significantly from December 4 to 10, and the south is also expected to maintain good air quality. Health officials recommend that the general public remain vigilant about their health by limiting outdoor activities and using protective gear. Those with specific health conditions should also reduce outdoor exposure and consult a doctor if health issues arise, reported KhaoSod. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through the Air4Thai.com and airbkk.com websites and the Air4Thai and AirBKK applications. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-04

UNESCO Recognises Tom Yum Kung as Cultural Heritage File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a proud moment for Thailand, UNESCO has officially recognised Tom Yum Kung prawn soup as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity. This accolade highlights not only the dish's culinary significance but also its cultural importance, reflecting the rich traditions and lifestyle of Thai communities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345318-unesco-recognises-tom-yum-kung-as-cultural-heritage/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a proud moment for Thailand, UNESCO has officially recognised Tom Yum Kung prawn soup as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity. This accolade highlights not only the dish's culinary significance but also its cultural importance, reflecting the rich traditions and lifestyle of Thai communities. The Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage made this decision during its meeting in Asuncion, Paraguay. The announcement was made at 4:10 pm local time on Tuesday, which was 2:10 am in Thailand on Wednesday. Tom Yum Kung now joins the ranks of other prestigious Thai cultural heritages on UNESCO's Representative List, such as the Khon mask dance, Nora dance, Thai massage, and the Songkran festival. These recognitions reflect Thailand's vibrant cultural tapestry and its contribution to global heritage preservation. Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol enthusiastically shared the news, emphasising Tom Yum Kung's origins in the riverine agricultural communities of Thailand's Central Plain. "The soup typifies the harmonious relationship between Thai people and their environment," Minister Sudawan said. The dish is crafted from locally sourced ingredients, including prawns and aromatic herbs like galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves, all of which are staples in Thai home gardens. Minister Sudawan described the dish’s flavour profile: "The primary taste comes from lime-induced sourness, complemented by saltiness from fish sauce, the heat of chilli, sweetness of prawns, and a hint of herbal bitterness." Such a complex and balanced flavour has made Tom Yum Kung beloved not only locally but internationally. The recognition by UNESCO is more than just about taste—it underscores Tom Yum Kung as an emblem of Thai culture's 'soft power'. Through this recognition, Thailand's culinary traditions gain enhanced prominence on the global stage, potentially boosting tourism and promoting cultural diplomacy. Furthermore, this milestone provides an invaluable opportunity for Thailand to preserve and promote this traditional dish, ensuring that future generations continue to savour and share their rich culinary history. It also places a spotlight on Thailand’s culinary arts amid a broader conversation around protecting intangible cultural heritages worldwide. This announcement could also hold economic significance for Thailand, with the potential to influence the gastronomic tourism sector greatly. As the world gains a formal appreciation of Tom Yum Kung, interest in Thai cuisine could well increase, bringing with it potential tourism and economic benefits, thus serving an intangible yet palpable boost to the nation's economy, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-04

Stray Dogs Attack Tourists Daily on Koh Muk Growing Stray Dog Problem Threatens Koh Muk Tourism Residents and business owners on Koh Muk, a popular tourist destination in Trang province, have called for urgent government action to tackle a worsening stray dog crisis. The issue has escalated, with reports of tourists being attacked daily, tarnishing the island’s reputation and becoming its top concern. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345317-stray-dogs-attack-tourists-daily-on-koh-muk/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Growing Stray Dog Problem Threatens Koh Muk Tourism Residents and business owners on Koh Muk, a popular tourist destination in Trang province, have called for urgent government action to tackle a worsening stray dog crisis. The issue has escalated, with reports of tourists being attacked daily, tarnishing the island’s reputation and becoming its top concern. On 3 December, local councillor Somboon Thongwaree confirmed the latest incident involving a tourist, identified as Ms. Angkana, 30, from Sukhothai. She and her Russian husband were visiting the island when she was attacked by a pack of 5-6 dogs while walking near her resort. Ms. Angkana suffered multiple bite wounds and was rushed to Koh Muk's local clinic before being transferred to Kantang Hospital for further treatment. Picture courtesy: Daily News Recounting the ordeal, Ms. Angkana said the attack occurred as she returned from an evening stroll. A single dog barked at her, attracting others, which soon surrounded and attacked her. Despite her efforts to fend them off with her bag, the dogs inflicted over ten bite wounds across her body. “I’m a dog lover, but this was terrifying,” she said, adding that the aggressive dogs seemed concentrated around the beaches. Somboon Thongwaree revealed that such attacks are frequent, with stray dogs causing problems for locals and tourists for over five years. Packs of aggressive dogs roam the island, particularly around beaches, posing a safety threat. Attempts to address the issue, including sterilisation programmes, have been hindered by limited funding and ineffective implementation. Resort owners like Ms. Patcharin Thongwaree expressed frustration, noting that complaints to authorities have yielded little action. "Tourists frequently comment on the stray dogs, and it's damaging the island’s reputation," she said. Local businesses are especially concerned as Koh Muk enters its high season, attracting an influx of tourists. Residents are urging authorities to relocate stray dogs off the island to restore safety and protect its tourism-dependent economy. Until then, locals and tourists alike remain at risk of further attacks, reported Daily News. -- 2024-12-04

Anti-Corruption Body Denies Advancing Thaksin Case Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Anti-Corruption Commission Clarifies Status of Thaksin Hospitalisation Case Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has refuted claims that it has advanced a case involving former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s prolonged stay at Police General Hospital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345313-anti-corruption-body-denies-advancing-thaksin-case- /

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Anti-Corruption Commission Clarifies Status of Thaksin Hospitalisation Case Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has refuted claims that it has advanced a case involving former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s prolonged stay at Police General Hospital. NACC Secretary-General Saroj Puengrampan addressed the issue on 3 December, following allegations circulating online. The case centres on accusations that officials from the Department of Corrections and Police General Hospital improperly transferred Thaksin from Bangkok Remand Prison, citing dubious medical grounds, allowing him to remain hospitalised for 180 days and avoid regular incarceration. Contrary to reports, the NACC stated the investigation remains at a preliminary stage under Section 49 of the 2018 Anti-Corruption Act. No conclusive findings have been made, nor has the case been submitted to the commission’s main panel for deliberation. The allegations also include claims of undue influence, with a high-ranking individual allegedly pressuring investigators to dismiss the case as baseless. However, the NACC emphasised that its inquiry is proceeding according to due process, and no formal charges have been filed against those implicated. The NACC urged the public to rely on official announcements for updates, cautioning against unverified information circulating online. The investigation continues as part of the commission’s broader efforts to uphold transparency and accountability, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-12-04

International Trafficking Gang Arrested for Exploiting African Women in Bangkok Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thai authorities have dismantled a cross-border human trafficking ring accused of luring African women into forced sex work in Bangkok’s Sukhumvit tourist district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345312-international-trafficking-gang-arrested-for-exploiting-african-women-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thai authorities have dismantled a cross-border human trafficking ring accused of luring African women into forced sex work in Bangkok’s Sukhumvit tourist district. On 2 December, a coordinated operation led by Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI) and multiple law enforcement agencies apprehended three suspects: Tanzanian nationals Ms. Lulu and Ms. Suwina (surnames withheld) in Bangkok, and Malian national Mr. Baba (surname withheld) in Nong Khai Province. The suspects allegedly served as recruiters or "madams," manipulating and coercing African women into sex work for foreign clients. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Victims were reportedly deceived, threatened, and subjected to psychological control using cultural superstitions, including witchcraft. The gang is accused of confiscating the victims' earnings and imposing crippling debts tied to travel and visa costs. The investigation stems from DSI Case 34/2024, initiated under the Justice Ministry's directive to combat human trafficking syndicates exploiting vulnerable individuals from Africa. The operation underscores Thailand’s ongoing efforts to safeguard its security and economic stability against such criminal enterprises. The suspects face charges of participating in a transnational organised crime group and conspiracy to commit human trafficking. Legal proceedings are underway, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-12-04

Thai Economy Faces Strain from Chinese Goods Influx: BoT Chief Warns File photo The dramatic influx of Chinese goods has put pressure on Thailand's manufacturing growth and has hindered loan expansion within the banking sector, declared Bank of Thailand Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput yesterday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345310-thai-economy-faces-strain-from-chinese-goods-influx-bot-chief-warns/

File photo The dramatic influx of Chinese goods has put pressure on Thailand's manufacturing growth and has hindered loan expansion within the banking sector, declared Bank of Thailand Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput yesterday. He addressed these concerns at the "Thailand Next Move 2025: Resiliency for an Uncertain World" seminar held by Money and Banking magazine. Since 2014, Southeast Asian countries have witnessed a consistent rise in Chinese imports, with a noticeable acceleration starting in 2020. This surge is largely attributed to escalating geopolitical and economic fragmentation, Sethaput noted. By 2023, Thailand's imports from China reached 71.1 billion USD (roughly 2.53 trillion THB), making Thailand the second largest importer of Chinese goods in Southeast Asia, just after Vietnam. Despite ongoing domestic consumption growth, Thailand's manufacturing sector has experienced a slowdown. Sethaput highlighted a declining correlation between the two sectors: from an average ratio of 0.79% between 2012 and 2020 to a mere 0.05% between 2021 and the third quarter of 2024. During the earlier period, manufacturing and domestic consumption grew at average rates of 1.6% and 1.8%, respectively. Yet, from 2021 to recent times, manufacturing growth plunged to 0.6%, while domestic consumption continued to rise by 2.1%. The governor also pointed to adverse effects on Thailand's banking sector, especially in auto lending—a prominent area of concern. In the third quarter of 2024, new car loans fell by 7.6% year-on-year, and used car loans saw an even sharper decline of 14.6%. Sethaput expressed that "geoeconomic fragmentation is expected to persist, bringing heightened uncertainties on a global scale." He cited influencing factors such as changes in US policies, including tariff alterations and fiscal amendments which are likely to impact global trade dynamics. These changes could also affect inflation rates, thereby influencing central banks' monetary policies worldwide. While the Bank of Thailand remains committed to a flexible monetary policy strategy that accommodates Thailand’s economic context, Sethaput stressed that monetary policy alone cannot bolster economic resilience. The central bank aims to reinforce economic buffers and has introduced measures across various sectors to enhance stability. In addressing Thailand's substantial household debt levels, the central bank is set to unveil a new debt restructuring programme on 11 December, complementing existing financial aid initiatives. These efforts have already rendered support totalling 2.1 trillion THB to 6.1 million accounts within the first nine months of this year, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-04

Yingluck's Exile Not Ending with Boonsong's Release, PM Paetongtarn Asserts Yingluck Shinawatra. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath In a recent turn of events, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra firmly quelled rumours suggesting the release of Boonsong Teriyabhirom could signal an imminent return of Yingluck Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345296-yinglucks-exile-not-ending-with-boonsongs-release-pm-paetongtarn-asserts/

Yingluck Shinawatra. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath In a recent turn of events, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra firmly quelled rumours suggesting the release of Boonsong Teriyabhirom could signal an imminent return of Yingluck Shinawatra. This announcement follows the parole of Boonsong, a former commerce minister caught in the storm of the rice subsidy scandal, who was released from prison under strictly monitored conditions. Boonsong, incarcerated in 2017 for his role in the notorious rice scheme, was initially sentenced to 48 years, later commuted to a decade. As of yesterday, the former official steps into freedom with an electronic ankle bracelet to ensure compliance during his three years and five months of parole. Although significant, this development, according to Paetongtarn, bears no impact on the legal circumstances surrounding her aunt, Yingluck. Yingluck Shinawatra, another high-profile figure entangled in the same corruption scandal, was sentenced to five years for negligence. However, rather than face imprisonment, Yingluck made a clandestine exit in 2017 via Cambodia and has since lived a life of self-imposed exile abroad. This high-profile escape unfolded against a backdrop of political turmoil, leaving questions lingering about her prospects of return. Speaking to journalists, Prime Minister Paetongtarn confirmed having discussed these matters with Yingluck herself. However, specifics of their dialogue remain shrouded in mystery. Despite public speculation, no definitive steps have been outlined concerning a return that would secure Yingluck's freedom from serving her sentence upon a potential homecoming. The family narrative is steeped in complex legal and political ties, exemplified by Thaksin Shinawatra’s prior maneuvers. Thaksin, who holds a dominant, albeit unofficial, influence within Pheu Thai, previously navigated his legal hurdles through meticulous agreements. Most notably, he staged a temporary "medical reprieve" at Police Hospital to delay serving a full sentence, reflecting the intricate strategies often employed. While Thaksin has hinted that Yingluck's return might occur around the Songkran festival in April, no concrete plans have been confirmed. This speculative timeline fuels interest but remains speculative at best, given the legal ramifications awaiting her in Thailand. As the scene unfolds, Boonsong's release serves as a focal point, but it provides no direct path for Yingluck's return. Instead, it underscores the fluid political landscape, leaving observers to ponder the future moves of one of Thailand's most prominent political dynasties, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-12-04

Thai PM Faces Criticism Over Inadequate Response to South Thailand Floods File photo Devastating floods in southern Thailand have put significant pressure on Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's government, leading to widespread criticism over her crisis management skills. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345280-thai-pm-faces-criticism-over-inadequate-response-to-south-thailand-floods/

7-Eleven Teams with British Embassy to Boost Thailand Road Safety Photo: The Pattaya News In a significant move to enhance road safety for tourists in Thailand, CP All Public Company Limited, the parent company of 7-Eleven in Thailand, has partnered with the Tourist Police Bureau and the British Embassy. Full sStory: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345262-7-eleven-teams-with-british-embassy-to-boost-thailand-road-safety/