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Thailand braces for cooler north and heavy rainfall in south by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Daniel Lerman, Unsplash Thailand’s northern regions are experiencing a drop in temperature accompanied by strong winds, while the southern part is facing heavy to very heavy rainfall in certain areas. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344066-thailand-braces-for-cooler-north-and-heavy-rainfall-in-south/

Thailand’s northern regions are experiencing a drop in temperature accompanied by strong winds, while the southern part is facing heavy to very heavy rainfall in certain areas. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a forecast for the next 24 hours, highlighting these weather conditions. A moderate high-pressure system from China extends over upper Thailand and the South China Sea, contributing to the cooler temperatures and stronger winds in the northern areas. Residents in these regions are advised to take care of their health due to the changing weather conditions. Meanwhile, the strengthening northeast monsoon affecting the Gulf of Thailand and the southern regions is causing heavy rainfall, particularly in the lower southern areas. The Gulf of Thailand is witnessing moderate waves, which can rise over 2 metres in height during thunderstorms. Mariners are cautioned against sailing in these stormy areas. Tropical storm Man-yi, located in the upper South China Sea, approached Hainan, China, and is expected to weaken into a tropical depression and then a strong low-pressure system later today. However, this storm is not projected to move into Thailand and will not directly impact the country’s weather. Travellers planning to visit the affected areas should check the weather conditions before their journey. Dust accumulation in the upper parts of Thailand remains minimal due to strong winds and good air circulation. Weather forecast In the north, the mornings are cool, with temperatures slightly dropping. Scattered light rain may occur, mainly in the upper areas. Minimum temperatures range from 18 to 21 degrees Celsius, while maximum temperatures are between 31 and 34 degrees Celsius. Mountain tops are cold, with temperatures hitting 7 to 14 degrees Celsius lows. Winds are from the northeast at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The northeastern region is experiencing cool mornings with strong winds and a temperature drop of 1 to 2 degrees Celsius. Minimum temperatures are between 18 and 21 degrees Celsius, with maximums reaching 32 to 34 degrees Celsius. Mountain tops are cool to cold, with lows of 13 to 18 degrees Celsius. Winds blow from the northeast at 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The central region is also seeing cool mornings with strong winds and slight temperature decreases. Minimum temperatures range from 21 to 24 degrees Celsius, and maximums are from 33 to 34 degrees Celsius. Winds are northeast at 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. In the eastern region, there are partial clouds with strong winds and a slight temperature drop. Minimum temperatures are 22 to 24 degrees Celsius, with maximums between 33 and 35 degrees Celsius. Thunderstorms Winds come from the northeast at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea has waves of about 1 metre, reaching 1 to 2 metres offshore, and more than 2 metres in stormy areas. The southern region (east coast) is experiencing thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy to very heavy rain in provinces such as Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Minimum temperatures are between 22 and 24 degrees Celsius, with maximums of 30 to 33 degrees Celsius. Winds are northeast at 15 to 35 kilometres per hour, and the sea has waves of 1 to 2 metres, exceeding 2 metres in stormy areas. The southern region (west coast) is also seeing thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in Trang and Satun provinces. Minimum temperatures are 24 to 25 degrees Celsius, with maximums between 32 and 35 degrees Celsius. Winds are from the east at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea has waves of about 1 metre, reaching 1 to 2 metres offshore and more than 2 metres in stormy areas, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and the surrounding areas have partial clouds with strong winds and a slight temperature drop. Minimum temperatures are between 23 and 25 degrees Celsius, with maximums ranging from 33 to 35 degrees Celsius. Winds are northeast at 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Daniel Lerman, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-20

British teacher’s tale takes a ‘Krabi’ turn after leg loss in crash by Bob Scott Picture of Andy Davis courtesy of the Davis family A British teacher is at the centre of a heartbreaking tale after he lost a leg in a dreadful accident in Thailand. Andy Davis, a much-loved local lad from Walton in Stone, Staffordshire, is fighting for his life after a catastrophic road smash on a serene island near Krabi on November 8. The 33 year old, who has dedicated his life to setting up teaching gigs for British teachers keen to spread the English language abroad, is now facing a gruelling battle for recovery after a horrific crash. Davis’ selfless work has touched countless lives but it’s his own life that hangs in the balance now. With injuries so severe his leg had to be amputated immediately, the Brit’s situation is dire. To add to his woes, he’s grappling with a shattered pelvis, an infection, and a torn bladder, leaving him in urgent need of several major surgeries. Rallying to Davis’ aid, his family have kicked off a heartfelt donation appeal. They need to gather a whopping £25,000 (1.1 million baht), and so far, the outpouring of generosity has amassed £11,500 (506,000 baht). The funds are crucial for life-saving surgeries and to transfer the injured British man from a small hospital in Krabi to a more equipped facility in Bangkok. His family stress that without this move, his chances of survival dwindle, as he battles multiple infections that could lead to even more amputations. Life-saving On their GoFundMe page, his family made a plea for help. “These surgeries will be life-saving. For Andy, this transfer is urgent. It’s just the beginning of the daunting medical bills we’re facing, aiming to stabilise him before planning his journey back home. Your support could ensure Andy comes home safely.” Andy’s lifelong friend, Mike Pugh, shares just how dire the situation is. Describing his mate of 20 years as “incredibly laid back” and “a genuinely nice guy,” Pugh highlights Davis’ inability to sort insurance or healthcare, as he drifts in and out of consciousness. Pugh believes the support flooding in is a testament to his friend’s character, with donations pouring from across the globe, proving the immense impact he made as he taught in Thailand, Peru, Mexico, and Ecuador since 2016. For those touched by Davis’ story, donations can be made at gofund.me/f7fb938b. It’s a race against time to bring the injured Brit back to the UK, and every bit of assistance counts. Picture of Andy Davis courtesy of the Davis family Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-20

Appeal Launched for British Teacher Gravely Injured in Thailand Crash Andy Davis in hospital in Thailand. Picture courtesy: Shropshire Star A fundraising campaign has gathered over £11,000 to support Andy Davis, a 33-year-old British teacher from Staffordshire, who sustained severe injuries in a crash in Krabi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344057-appeal-launched-for-british-teacher-gravely-injured-in-thailand-crash/

Andy Davis in hospital in Thailand. Picture courtesy: Shropshire Star A fundraising campaign has gathered over £11,000 to support Andy Davis, a 33-year-old British teacher from Staffordshire, who sustained severe injuries in a crash in Krabi. Mr Davis, an English teacher abroad since 2016, suffered devastating injuries, including the loss of a leg, a shattered pelvis, and a torn bladder. His friend Mike Pugh explained that these injuries required urgent treatment on the mainland, which comes with a hefty price tag. While some costs may be covered by insurance, it’s estimated that medical expenses, including transferring Mr Davis to Bangkok for specialised care and eventually back to the UK, could exceed £30,000. Mr Pugh expressed hope that the funds raised could also allow Mr Davis to return home for Christmas as originally planned. However, the situation remains dire. Complications such as infections in his leg and pelvis and concerns about his torn bladder have made recovery more challenging. A further amputation may be necessary, adding to the financial and emotional burden. Mr Davis's parents have flown to Thailand to assist him, as he remains in and out of consciousness and unable to manage his care or insurance arrangements. Described as "incredibly laid back" and "genuinely nice," Mr Davis has touched the lives of many during his teaching career, which has taken him to countries like Thailand, Peru, Mexico, and Ecuador. His work recently focused on helping other Brits find teaching opportunities abroad. Mr Pugh, a close friend for over 20 years, said he was overwhelmed by the support the appeal has received, including donations from former students and friends worldwide. The response has been "heartwarming," reflecting the positive impact Mr Davis has had on others. Despite the challenges ahead, his friends and family remain committed to ensuring he receives the care he needs, with many rallying to show their support during this difficult time, reported BBC. Donations can be made on the GoFundMe page at gofund.me/f7fb938b -- 2024-11-20

Thaksin Hints at Yingluck's Return Before Songkran Festival File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential figure behind the Pheu Thai Party, has confidently announced that his sister, former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, plans to return to Thailand from self-exile by next April. In a recent interview with Nikkei Asia, Thaksin revealed that Yingluck, who was sentenced to a five-year prison term in absentia for negligence and misconduct, is expected to return before Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year celebrated with water festivities. Expressing optimism, Thaksin conveyed that no obstacles should hinder Yingluck's return ahead of the nationwide festival, suggesting favourable conditions may soon permit her homecoming. This follows Thaksin's own return to Thailand last year after 17 years abroad, during which he managed to avoid serving a curtailed one-year jail sentence. Thaksin himself faces ongoing legal challenges, including a high-profile lese majeste case, which he claims is unfounded. He is scheduled to present his defence in court next July. Since a contentious interview in Seoul in 2015, where he discussed the monarchy in the context of the 2006 coup that ousted him, legal battles have continued to mount. Additionally, Thaksin is under scrutiny for allegedly using his connections to manipulate the ruling Pheu Thai Party, led by his daughter and current Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Accusations include orchestrating a political fake-out by posing as a critically ill patient to avoid prison time and using influence for personal and political gains. If the Constitutional Court rules against Thaksin, he could face imprisonment, the dissolution of the Pheu Thai Party, and a political ban on its executive members, including potential impacts on his daughter's premiership. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, now Prime Minister, is determined to avoid the pitfalls that led to her predecessor Srettha Thavisin's removal from office last August over allegations of power abuse. Amid these complex legal and political dynamics, Thaksin remains a pivotal figure, striving not only for his sister's safe return but also to maintain his influence in Thai politics despite the challenges he and his family face, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-20

Thailand Urged to Establish Shelters for Rohingya Migrants to Prevent Trafficking File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand is being called upon to create temporary border shelters for Rohingya migrants fleeing Myanmar, to protect them from human trafficking networks. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344053-thailand-urged-to-establish-shelters-for-rohingya-migrants-to-prevent-trafficking/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand is being called upon to create temporary border shelters for Rohingya migrants fleeing Myanmar, to protect them from human trafficking networks. This appeal comes from Siyeed Alam, president of the Rohingya Association of Thailand, who emphasises that the ongoing conflict in Rakhine State is prompting these individuals to seek refuge. Siyeed Alam has suggested that by setting up these shelters, Thailand could offer a safe haven for the migrants until peace returns to Rakhine State, potentially reducing the reliance on traffickers. "This will prevent them from seeking help from human traffickers to leave Myanmar," Siyeed remarked, underscoring the urgency of the situation. The Rohingya, a Muslim ethnic minority from Rakhine State, have been subjected to decades of persecution by Myanmar's government. Many are currently trafficked into Thailand, with some hiding in various provinces en route to Bangkok. Recently, on 16th November, about 30 Rohingya migrants were detained while travelling to Kamphaeng Phet province. Rohingya migrants often have to pay brokers between 70,000 to 100,000 baht each to escape their perilous circumstances. Siyeed has urged Thai authorities to intensify efforts against these trafficking networks. He also highlighted the grim reality faced by those trafficked from Myanmar's border town of Myawaddy, often sold for 150,000 to 160,000 baht, with some returning to Thailand after deportation by paying traffickers again. The migrants face dire conditions, with many experiencing abuse, torture, or even being forced into the fishing industry. Recently, Thai police in Phang Nga province detained over 100 Rohingya migrants hiding in local forests. There is uncertainty about whether all detained were Rohingya or if Bangladeshis were also involved. Reports indicate that the detained migrants revealed they arrived in the province on a large vessel carrying around 300 people, only to be dispersed onto smaller boats upon reaching Thai waters. Their intended final destination was reportedly a third country. Migrant smuggling tends to slow during the rainy season, as the journey is primarily by sea. However, activities are expected to resume with the return of the dry season, making the establishment of shelters ever more pressing. This initiative aims to address the immediate needs of the Rohingya while curbing the exploitation by trafficking networks, reported Thai PBS. -- 2024-11-20

Hotel Room Alcohol Service Extended 24/7 for New Year Period FILE photo courtesy: Prachachat For the upcoming New Year celebrations, hotels in Thailand will allow guests to order alcoholic drinks to their rooms from in-house bars and restaurants at any time, thanks to a temporary rule change approved by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board. The decision, taken at a meeting led by Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, aims to balance convenience for guests with responsible consumption. Typically, hotel guests can order alcohol to their rooms only until 10pm from restaurants and 2am from bars. However, the recently approved regulation permits round-the-clock service to rooms, aligning with the 24-hour access guests already have to in-room minibars. Although hotels can serve alcohol during New Year's events with extended hours, this new policy is a special allowance, requested by the Thai Hotels Association (THA). It's designed to enhance guest experience during one of the peak tourist seasons. Despite the relaxation for hotels, the board decided against lifting the alcohol ban on trains, a proposal put forth by the State Railways of Thailand (SRT). Mr. Somsak expressed concerns about safety and crime risks associated with serving alcohol on trains, though there remains an openness to future discussions on allowing alcohol in specific train areas like first-class sleeper coaches or chartered sections. This decision highlights the focus on preventing alcohol-related incidents. Drunk driving remains a significant issue during the holiday period, as evidenced by over 4,000 injuries from drink-driving accidents reported at the start of January. Strengthened roadside checks and educational campaigns on the dangers of drunk driving are part of the board's broader strategy to ensure safety. Hospitals and local authorities have been tasked with implementing prevention measures and working closely with communities to curb drink-driving. Public awareness campaigns will begin pre-festivities and continue throughout, with a review of their impact afterwards. This comprehensive approach underscores the importance of encouraging responsible alcohol consumption while still offering hospitality services that cater to tourists and locals celebrating the festive season, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-20

Picture courtesy: Matichon At the Ministry of Public Health, a significant meeting of the Alcohol Beverage Control Committee took place, chaired by Mr. Somsak Thepsuthin, Minister of Public Health. The agenda focused on two key issues: the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages at train stations or on trains, and a proposal from the Thai Hotels Association to allow round-the-clock alcohol sales in hotels. Mr. Somsak revealed that the State Railway of Thailand proposed selling alcoholic drinks in first and second-class sleeper cars, dining cars, and private charter services. However, the committee did not approve this proposal in its current form. Mr. Somsak explained that more information was needed to address safety concerns, particularly regarding private charter services, where full privacy and no disturbances could potentially allow such sales. Regarding the hotel proposal, the committee noted that the Hotel Act of 2004 already governs alcohol sales in hotels, leading to a decision against continuous 24-hour sales. Instead, they provisionally allowed drinking in hotel rooms. A set of guidelines permitting 24/7 consumption in guests' rooms through in-room minibars is to be drafted, although legislation is required to enforce this. Mr. Somsak highlighted a broader strategy for reinforcing alcohol regulation, tasking provincial committees with developing plans under the Alcohol Control Act of 2008. This includes specifying no-sale zones, managing sale hours and age restrictions for purchasers, controlling advertising practices, and promoting sobriety campaigns like “No Drink Driving” during festivals. When asked about the new legislative proposal for an Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, which increases business representation in the National Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee, Mr. Somsak acknowledged potential conflicts of interest. Yet, he emphasised that legislative affairs are outside his direct influence, urging a careful approach once the bill returns to his domain. Although faced with political pressures, Mr. Somsak showed restraint, as the Parliament remains adjourned until mid-December. Concentrating on immediate legislation for the Ministry of Public Health has been challenging, admitting to losing sleep over pending laws. Finally, he remarked on the evolving cultural dynamics surrounding alcohol consumption, emphasising a need to listen to diverse public opinions, whether from critics or supporters, to navigate these complex societal issues, reported Matichon Online. -- 2024-11-20

Yingluck Must Follow Legal Protocols for Thailand Return, Says Minister Picture courtesy: Facebook Yingluck Shinawatra The possibility of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra returning to Thailand has been highlighted by Justice Minister Thawee Sodsong, following comments by her brother, Thaksin Shinawatra, also a former Prime Minister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344052-yingluck-must-follow-legal-protocols-for-thailand-return-says-minister/

Picture courtesy: Facebook Yingluck Shinawatra The possibility of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra returning to Thailand has been highlighted by Justice Minister Thawee Sodsong, following comments by her brother, Thaksin Shinawatra, also a former Prime Minister. Thaksin mentioned in an interview that Yingluck is planning to return for next year's Songkran festival. Minister Thawee clarified that while there has been no formal notification regarding Yingluck's return, any such move would need to adhere strictly to legal procedures. He pointed out that the Department of Corrections can only take action once a detention warrant has been issued by the court. Upon receiving the necessary warrant, the department will ensure that all processes follow the law. According to current correctional regulations, any female inmate, including Yingluck, must serve her sentence in a central correctional facility. Minister Thawee reassured that there would be no deviation from the established legal framework. Questions have been raised regarding whether Yingluck's return would mirror that of her brother Thaksin, who returned to Thailand under controversial circumstances and sought a royal pardon. Thawee, however, was not the justice minister during Thaksin's return and emphasised that Yingluck's case would have to comply entirely with correctional law. When further queried about her return, Thawee noted, "There is no specific model; everything must follow the law." Thaksin had previously given an interview to Nikkei Asia on 14th November while in Udon Thani for provincial-administrative-organisation election campaigning. He expressed optimism about his sister's return, despite her self-exile following a 2017 conviction concerning a rice-pledging scheme. Thaksin stated, “I don’t think there’s any issue preventing her from coming home. I believe she might return slightly before [Songkran], depending on timing and opportunity.” This development places Yingluck's future actions under the spotlight, with legal adherence being critical to any plans for her to resettle in Thailand. The situation continues to unfold, with many watching to see how these legal processes will be navigated in the coming months, reported The Nation. -- 2024-11-20

UPDATE: Driver's Reckless Overtaking on Expressway Leads to Sedan Seizure Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV A tense scene unfolded on the Si Rat expressway when a motorist, Mr Pitiphat Kanchanaphanurat, displayed reckless driving behaviour that resulted in the seizure of his sedan and a significant penalty. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343998-thai-tesla-driver-admits-reckless-driving-after-argument-video/#findComment-19393725

Driver's Reckless Overtaking on Expressway Leads to Sedan Seizure Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV A tense scene unfolded on the Si Rat expressway when a motorist, Mr Pitiphat Kanchanaphanurat, displayed reckless driving behaviour that resulted in the seizure of his sedan and a significant penalty. Captured on video by a Facebook user, known as "Buffalo of the Road V1", Mr Pitiphat's white Tesla was seen cutting in front of vehicles from both the left and right sides, raising concerns among fellow drivers. On November 19, the Dusit Provincial Court handed down a suspended one-month jail sentence, reducing it from two months due to his confession. Mr Pitiphat, whose driver’s licence had expired, was also fined a total of 7,000 baht, including 5,000 baht for his driving offence and 2,000 baht for the expired licence. Additionally, his driving privileges have been suspended for six months, and he is required to fulfill a year-long probation that includes community service and regular reporting to authorities. His defence highlighted the stress induced from a personal disagreement with his girlfriend, which led to the reckless driving incident. This dispute was notably over GPS directions, adding to Mr Pitiphat's frustration on the road. The court's decision to seize his Tesla reflects a stern stance against endangering public safety on the expressway. While Mr Pitiphat expressed a desire to meet and apologise to the affected parties, these attempts have reportedly been met with refusal. This incident serves as a reminder of the critical importance of responsible driving, especially on high-speed expressways where safety must be a priority. The authorities' action underscores their commitment to enforcing road safety laws and discouraging hazardous driving practices, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-20

Pattaya: Train Collides with Car at Khao Talo Railway Crossing A collision between a locomotive and a red Ertiga Suzuki car occurred at the Khao Talo railway crossing in Pattaya, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi. One male driver sustained minor injuries and was transported to Bang Lamung Hospital for treatment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344033-pattaya-train-collides-with-car-at-khao-talo-railway-crossing/

Foreign man fined 500 baht for physically assaulting Thai restaurant worker Photo via Channel 3 Police fined a foreign man 500 baht for physically assaulting a Thai restaurant worker in the Patong neighbourhood of Phuket. The foreign attacker also issued an apology to both the victim and the restaurant owner. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344005-foreign-man-fined-500-baht-for-physically-assaulting-thai-restaurant-worker/

Thai PM Criticised for Fashion Choices at Global Summit video screenshot A former fashion magazine columnist, now based in the US, has criticised Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s fashion choices during her attendance at the 31st Apec Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Peru. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344016-thai-pm-criticised-for-fashion-choices-at-global-summit/

Foreign man flees after sexually assaulting Thai woman in condo lift - video File photo for reference only A Thai woman took to social media to seek help in locating a foreign suspect who allegedly stalked and sexually assaulted her in the lift of her condominium. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344023-foreign-man-flees-after-sexually-assaulting-thai-woman-in-condo-lift-video/

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 20 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1343983-thailand-live-wednesday-20-november-2024/

video screenshot A former fashion magazine columnist, now based in the US, has criticised Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s fashion choices during her attendance at the 31st Apec Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Peru. Mr Kiccha Buranond took to Facebook to express his disapproval of the Prime Minister's attire, comparing it to a tourist's casual outfit that would be deemed inappropriate for visiting Thailand’s revered Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Kiccha particularly objected to Paetongtarn's choice of frayed trousers and trainers upon disembarking in Lima, Peru. According to him, these were unsuitable for someone performing official national duties at an international event. -- 2024-11-20

British Tourist Attacked in Pattaya: Nose Broken, Eye Bruised; Authorities on the Hunt Pattaya police are investigating a violent assault on a British tourist, which occurred on Pattaya Third Road, in the South Pattaya area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343978-british-tourist-attacked-in-pattaya-nose-broken-eye-bruised-authorities-on-the-hunt/

Thai AGO Declines to Process Case Accusing Former PM Thaksin of Subversion In what is being hailed as a significant shakeup in Thai politics, the Attorney General's Office (AGO) of Thailand has refused to process a politically charged case against former Prime Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra and the governing Pheu Thai Party. The case accuses both parties of trying to subvert democracy in Thailand while the King holds the title of Head of State. Sources state the case was dismissed today, 19th November, by the AGO, citing a lack of sufficient cause for the accusations. However, the decision now lies with the Constitutional Court to further pursue the matter. The case was initially tabled by lawyer Teerayut Suwankesorn earlier this month. It alleges that Thaksin, whose daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra now leads as Prime Minister, is employing his influence over the ruling Pheu Thai Party to manipulate and destabilise the democratic governance of Thailand. The case, brought to the AGO, claims the actions are a breach of Section 49 of Thailand's constitution. Documents detailing the contentious case were forwarded to the Constitutional Court by the AGO on 8th November, with the court scheduling a hearing for the matter on 22nd November. Despite declining to process the case, the AGO has confirmed that it will supply additional information to the Constitutional Court for their review. This will include evidence of actions by Thaksin and Pheu Thai Party that potentially supports the claims of subversion. As per procedure, the AGO has a 15-day window following the forwarding of case documents to provide this supplemental information, ensuring the Constitutional Court can fully investigate these hefty allegations against a former statesman and ruling political party. This promises to be a critical moment in the unfolding tapestry of Thai politics. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-19

Thai PM Paetongtarn Congratulates Trump; Eyes Stronger US-Thailand Alliance Thailand's youngest-ever Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, ushered in a new diplomatic chapter today in a historic phone call with US President-elect Donald Trump. This development arrives on the cusp of Trump's presidential term and marks an assertive step towards reinforcing US-Thailand relations. The call, held at 9.50am GMT, was marked by the Thai Premier's resounding congratulations to Trump, outlining an exciting vision for the countries' future collaboration. Government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsub disclosed details of the call, signalling the call's significance in Thailand's global outreach strategy. Paetongtarn was emphatic in voicing Thailand’s ensemble readiness to work with Trump's impending administration. “Thailand is eager to foster high-level US engagements and visits" she expressed, extending an open invitation to President Trump personally. This considerate gesture signifies Thailand's keenness to host substantial diplomatic exchanges on its home turf. President-elect Trump responded in kind, expressing admiration for the youthful Thai Prime Minister and her efforts echoed against Thailand's splendid landscapes. “Anything I can do, you just let me know,” exclaimed Trump, reflecting his eager anticipation of further diplomatic and economic ties. Thailand enjoys a historical position as Washington's oldest treaty ally in Asia, wielding a unique influence in dictating regional security. This bond backs the annual joint military exercises held between the two nations, and Trump's response today promises to solidify these ties further. This diplomatic move arrives at a crucial juncture. Trump's proposed tariffs on Chinese goods pave the way for potentially increased Thai exports to the US, Thailand's chief export recipient already. As the Asian trade landscape continues to change, Thailand's Commerce Ministry remains watchful of these shifts, keenly pursuing enhanced export-driven economic growth. Today's historic conversation between these two national leaders showcases a promising outlook for a stronger, economically robust US-Thailand partnership. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-19

Attorney General Declines Action on Thaksin Case File photo courtesy: Sanook The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has decided not to process a case against former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and the Pheu Thai Party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343990-attorney-general-declines-action-on-thaksin-case/

File photo courtesy: Sanook The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has decided not to process a case against Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and the Pheu Thai Party, who were accused of attempting to overthrow the democratic system with the King as Head of State, violating Section 49 of the constitution. This decision was disclosed on Tuesday, although it won't prevent the Constitutional Court from deliberating the case. The case was initially filed by lawyer Teerayut Suwankesorn earlier this month. Suwankesorn alleged that Thaksin, the father of Prime Minister Paetongtarn, wielded undue influence over the ruling Pheu Thai Party. On 8th November, the AGO forwarded all related documents to the Constitutional Court, which is set to deliberate on 22nd November. According to a source, the AGO found no grounds for the case under Section 49, hence deciding not to proceed with the complaint. Despite the AGO's decision, the Constitutional Court retains the authority to consider the case. The court reportedly requested further details on the specific actions undertaken by the accused that allegedly violated the constitution, as well as the evidence accumulated thus far. The AGO is required to provide this information within 15 days of submitting the case documents to the court, reported The Nation. -- 2024-11-19