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In a significant standoff on Koh Samui yesterday, local authorities' attempts to enforce demolition of 11 unauthorised luxury villas hit a legal roadblock. The villas, part of the Ariya Residence project, are situated in Moo 3, Maret, and have been under scrutiny due to violations of the Building Control Act of 2522 (1979). Leading the operation, Koh Samui Mayor Ramnet Jaikang and legal officer Pallop Meepian, accompanied by police and environmental officials, sought to implement a demolition order issued in 2019. The order demanded the structures be dismantled within 90 days, citing legal non-compliance. Despite follow-up notices in April 2024, the villa owners had not adhered to these orders. Upon attempting to access the site at 10 am, officials were thwarted by barricades and a "Private Property, No Entry" sign. The project's lawyer intervened, informing officials a petition to annul the demolition order had been submitted just days prior. The legal representative argued the municipality's initial actions were flawed, with plans to challenge the enforcement in the administrative court. “We believe that the municipality’s actions are not under the law, and we will take this matter to court,” stated the project's lawyer, underscoring the owners' resolve to counter the municipal directive legally. Foiled in their efforts, municipal official Pallop filed a formal report with Bo Phut Police Station to escalate the situation legally. Meanwhile, the Fourth Army Area Command underscored an urgent need to enforce administrative protocols, maintaining that the villas must eventually face lawful dismantling. As this legal battle progresses, the spotlight remains on whether the Koh Samui municipality can uphold its demolition orders amidst intensified legal scrutiny and the owners' determined opposition. The resolution of this dispute may set a significant precedent for similar cases across Thailand. Picture courtesy: Wochenblitz -- 2024-10-23

Constitutional Court Presses OAG to Proceed with Thaksin Lawsuit Picture courtesy: MGR online The Constitutional Court has urged the Office of the Attorney-General (OAG) to take prompt action on a lawsuit filed against Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential figure behind the Pheu Thai Party. This legal action, which accuses the former PM and the ruling party of wrongdoing, has stalled, prompting the court's intervention. Fulln story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341450-constitutional-court-presses-oag-to-proceed-with-thaksin-lawsuit/

Picture courtesy: MGR online The Constitutional Court has urged the Office of the Attorney-General (OAG) to take prompt action on a lawsuit filed against Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential figure behind the Pheu Thai Party. This legal action, which accuses the former PM and the ruling party of wrongdoing, has stalled, prompting the court's intervention. The court has given the OAG a 15-day deadline to gather necessary witness statements and evidence and submit them for further judicial review. This appeal comes after activist lawyer Thirayut Suwankesorn lodged the complaint with the OAG last month, only to see little movement within the initial period. Frustrated, he brought the case to the Constitutional Court earlier in the month. Key allegations include Thaksin's undue influence over the Pheu Thai Party, allegedly orchestrating its activities behind the scenes. Thirayut's complaint highlights a clandestine meeting at Thaksin's house in Bangkok, following former PM Srettha Thavisin's dismissal, where Thaksin purportedly guided coalition leaders to quickly identify a successor. Further accusations involve Thaksin's alleged manipulation of Pheu Thai's exclusion of the Palang Pracharath Party, led by Prawit Wongsuwan, from the coalition. It's claimed Thaksin used televised speeches to mould government policies, notably those regarding natural resource development around Koh Koot islands, leveraging a historic relationship with Cambodia's former PM Hun Sen. Additionally, Thaksin is accused of exploiting his influence to avoid imprisonment, benefiting from a royal pardon and evading actual prison time under the guise of requiring medical treatment, reported Thai Newsroom. Should the court find Thaksin guilty, potential consequences include imprisonment for Thaksin and the dissolution of the Pheu Thai Party, which would temporarily bar its executive board members, including his daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra, from holding political office. -- 2024-10-23

Source: Kanisorn Pringthongfoo / Shutterstock.com King Chulalongkorn Day, October 23rd King Chulalongkorn Day is a national holiday observed on October 23rd every year in commemoration of His Majesty King Chulalongkorn the Great's passing. King Chulalongkorn is renowned for the modernization of Siam and major reforms, founding its first university , and abolishing slavery. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341354-king-chulalongkorn-day-october-23rd/

King Chulalongkorn Day, October 23rd Source: Kanisorn Pringthongfoo / Shutterstock.com King Chulalongkorn Day is a national holiday observed on October 23rd every year in commemoration of His Majesty King Chulalongkorn the Great's passing. King Chulalongkorn is renowned for the modernization of Siam and major reforms, founding its first university , and abolishing slavery. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341354-king-chulalongkorn-day-october-23rd/

Source: Kanisorn Pringthongfoo / Shutterstock.com King Chulalongkorn Day is a national holiday observed on October 23rd every year in commemoration of His Majesty King Chulalongkorn the Great's passing. King Chulalongkorn is renowned for the modernization of Siam and major reforms, founding its first university , and abolishing slavery. As the fifth monarch of the Chakri dynasty, King Chulalongkorn is known as King Rama V and is grandfather to His Majesty the Late King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great (King Rama IX). The reformist monarch Early on in his reign, more than a third of the Siamese population were slaves. Those who could not live independently sold themselves into indentured servitude, which would be passed onto their children, forming multi-generational slave families. King Chulalongkorn interceded, enacting a royal decree to reduce the price of redemption for slaves born in 1868, allowing those slave children to be freed by the age of 21. By 1905, the Slave Abolition Act ended Siamese slavery in its entirety, and slave owners were forced to reduce their slaves' debt by 1 baht per month until they were free. In homage to the Act, the reverse side of the 100 baht banknote (Series 15, Type 2) depicts King Chulalongkorn in Royal Thai Navy Uniform, abolishing the slave tradition. Now, the monarch is also referred to as Phra Piyamaharaj or the “Great Beloved King,” as well as Phra Phuttha Chao Lhuang or the “Royal Buddha.” The Equestrian Statue The majority of Dusit district in Bangkok was built during the reign of King Chulalongkorn, and the surviving buildings show a mix of Thai and European-style architecture. There, in the Royal Plaza, stands the Equestrian Statue of King Rama V, in front of Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall. Originally, the bronze sculpture was built to commemorate the 40th anniversary of King Chulalongkorn's reign, who, at the time, was the longest-reigning monarch in Siamese history. The statue was inspired by the Equestrian Statue of King Louis XIV at the Palace of Versailles in France, following the Siamese monarch's “Grand Tour of Europe” in 1907. On this day, Thais show their respect to the great reformer by placing wreaths at the Equestrian Statue. In addition, the Chulalongkorn rose, a thorn-free pink rose, is offered to represent the everlasting love of Princess Dara Rasmi and King Chulalongkorn. Source: Royal Thai Consulate Xian -- 2024-10-22

Heavy rain and flash floods expected as storm Trami intensifies by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Tom De Decker, Unsplash The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a warning about the intensifying tropical storm Trami, which is expected to bring heavy rainfall to lower northern, central, eastern, and upper southern regions, including Bangkok and its vicinity. Residents are advised to be cautious of flash floods and forest runoffs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341350-heavy-rain-and-flash-floods-expected-as-storm-trami-intensifies/

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a warning about the intensifying tropical storm Trami, which is expected to bring heavy rainfall to lower northern, central, eastern, and upper southern regions, including Bangkok and its vicinity. Residents are advised to be cautious of flash floods and forest runoffs. The TMD predicts that the monsoon trough will move across the lower central, upper southern, and eastern regions. Coupled with easterly and southeasterly winds bringing moisture from the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, this will lead to heavy rains in the lower northern, central, and eastern regions, as well as in Bangkok and its surrounding areas. People in these regions should be vigilant against heavy rain and accumulated rainfall, which may cause sudden floods and forest runoffs, particularly in foothill areas near waterways and low-lying regions. Additionally, residents are advised to take care of their health due to changing weather conditions. Moderate sea waves are expected in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, with waves reaching 1 to 2 metres in the Andaman Sea and about 1 metre in the Gulf of Thailand. In areas with thunderstorms, waves may exceed 2 metres. Mariners in these areas should exercise caution and avoid sailing in regions with thunderstorms. The tropical depression east of the Philippines has strengthened into tropical storm Trami and is expected to move into the upper South China Sea in the next couple of days. The northern region will experience thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in some places, particularly in Mae Hong Son, Tak, and Kamphaeng Phet provinces. The lowest temperatures will range from 22°C to 24°C, while the highest will be between 31°C and 33°C. Easterly winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. The northeastern region will see thunderstorms covering 40% of the area, mostly in Nakhon Phanom, Sakon Nakhon, Mukdahan, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani provinces. Temperatures will range from 23°C to 24°C at the lowest to 32°C to 33°C at the highest, with easterly winds at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. Storm Trami In the central region, 60% of the area will experience thunderstorms, with heavy rain expected in Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, and Samut Songkhram provinces. Temperatures will range from 24°C to 26°C at the lowest to 32°C to 34°C at the highest, with easterly winds at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The eastern region will have thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in some places, notably in Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces. Temperatures will range from 24°C to 26°C at the lowest to 32°C to 34°C at the highest, with variable winds blowing at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, and in areas with thunderstorms, waves may exceed 2 metres. The southern region (east coast) will experience thunderstorms in 40% of the area, with heavy rain in Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces. The lowest temperatures will be between 23 and 26°C, and the highest will range from 31 to 34°C. Variable winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, with sea waves about 1 metre high, and over 2 metres in areas with thunderstorms. The southern region (west coast) will see thunderstorms in 20% of the area, mostly in Ranong and Phang Nga provinces. Temperatures will range from 23 to 26°C at the lowest to 32 to 34°C at the highest. From Phang Nga upwards, southwesterly winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 35 kilometres per hour, with sea waves 1 to 2 metres high and over 2 metres in areas with thunderstorms. From Phuket downwards, northwesterly winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, with sea waves about 1 metre high and over 2 metres in areas with thunderstorms, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and its vicinity will have thunderstorms in 70% of the area, with heavy rain in some places. Temperatures will range from 25 to 26°C at the lowest to 33 to 34°C at the highest, with easterly winds at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Tom De Decker, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-22

Thailand’s smog showdown: Clearing the air with a bold 30% cut by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of CNN In a bid to wipe the smog off the map, Thailand’s Pollution Control Department (PCD) is gearing up for a 2024 blitz on air pollution, aiming to slash hotspots by a daring 30%. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341349-thailand’s-smog-showdown-clearing-the-air-with-a-bold-30-cut/

In a bid to wipe the smog off the map, Thailand’s Pollution Control Department (PCD) is gearing up for a 2024 blitz on air pollution, aiming to slash hotspots by a daring 30%. PCD Chief Preeyaporn Suwanaked held court at a buzzing press conference, revealing the National Environment Board’s stamp of approval on an ambitious blueprint to combat haze. This all-encompassing plan targets smog culprits lurking in forests, farms, and cityscapes. With a sharp eye on cutting traffic snarls, the PCD’s playbook includes trimming public bus fares, putting vehicles under the microscope, and rolling out work-from-home days in bustling urban hubs. Turning up the heat on fire prevention, the department has drawn a risk map for 14 forest complexes across the northern and northeastern landscapes, with new rules demanding farmers log in with government officials before sparking any flames, said Preeyaporn. “Our mission is crystal clear: we’re out to trim nationwide hotspots by a robust 30% next year.” On the meteorological front, Thailand is sailing through the La Nina phase, stretching from September to March, bringing with it torrents of rain that are likely to dampen hotspot numbers compared to past years. Yet, even as cleaner skies beckon, Preeyaporn assured the public that vigilance remains the watchword. The PCD is set to team up with allied agencies, ready to tackle any pollution setbacks head-on. Meanwhile, Sakda Tridech, the PCD Air Quality and Noise Management Division chief, issued a heads-up for Bangkokians as he predicted a spike in pesky particulates next month, thanks to an impending cold blast blowing in from China. Only two weeks ago, Bangkok and its neighbouring provinces awoke to find themselves enveloped in a thick blanket of smog, as pollution levels reached dangerously high levels. The stagnant air trapped hazardous levels of PM2.5, leaving the city gasping for breath. According to the Pollution Control Department, PM2.5 (tiny particles less than 2.5 microns in diameter) breached the safe threshold of 35 microgrammes per cubic metre in several areas of Bangkok and nearby provinces. By 11am, October 8, readings across the capital ranged from 37 to 48.8µg/m3, with Sathorn district topping the chart. Neighbouring regions like Nakhon Pathom, Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, and Samut Sakhon were also suffocating under similar levels of smog. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of CNN Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-22

Thai Officials Face Probe Over Fatal School Bus Inferno Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a sobering turn of events, a deadly school bus fire that claimed the lives of 23 individuals, including students and teachers from Uthai Thani, is now the subject of a comprehensive investigation involving multiple government agencies in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341347-thai-officials-face-probe-over-fatal-school-bus-inferno/

In a sobering turn of events, a deadly school bus fire that claimed the lives of 23 individuals, including students and teachers from Uthai Thani, is now the subject of a comprehensive investigation involving multiple government agencies in Thailand. The tragic event occurred on October 1 during a field trip, prompting a thorough inquiry into the series of approvals and inspections that preceded the disaster. The Central Investigation Bureau's Deputy Commissioner, Pol. Maj. Gen. Jaroonkiat Pankaew, has disclosed that the probe is delving into the possible negligence and complicity of government officials. The investigation, spearheaded by the Office of the Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) and the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC), suggests that various state bodies could face legal action for their roles in the tragedy. PACC Secretary-General Phumwisan Kasemsuk has stated that officials responsible for permitting conditions that led to the incident may be held accountable. While specific details are withheld to preserve the integrity of the investigation, there is a strong commitment to pursuing justice for the victims and their families. Senator Alongkot Worawi has independently lodged a complaint with the police's Anti-Corruption Police Division, specifically targeting the Singburi Provincial Transport Office and the engineers responsible for inspecting the ill-fated bus. Central to his concerns is the adequacy of the technical examination, particularly the installation of the gas tanks. The senator has suggested that negligence in this area may have contributed to the fire, calling for an expanded investigation into the transport officials' potential liability. As investigations continue, the focus remains firmly on holding accountable those whose actions, or lack thereof, might have contributed to a preventable tragedy, shining a spotlight on the critical need for enhanced safety measures in public transport, reported TNA and Pattaya Mail. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-10-22

Thailand Urged to Tackle Foreign Influence in Tourism Business File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The Thai Senate, alarmed at the increasing influence of foreign businesses masked by local proxies, is pressing the government for a resolute intervention in the tourism industry. This comes amidst growing concerns over the impact on local enterprises who find themselves struggling against this veiled foreign competition. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341346-thailand-urged-to-tackle-foreign-influence-in-tourism-business/

The Thai Senate, alarmed at the increasing influence of foreign businesses masked by local proxies, is pressing the government for a resolute intervention in the tourism industry. This comes amidst growing concerns over the impact on local enterprises who find themselves struggling against this veiled foreign competition. At a recent meeting, Senator Nantana Nantavaropas raised pressing questions about the support available for local businesses disadvantaged by these foreign influences. In response, Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong confirmed that the ministry is engaging with impacted local operators to devise a customised response. Minister Sorawong highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that these foreign-dominated businesses could soon command a large chunk of the tourism industry, a critical source of the nation's foreign revenue. The initial plan of action involves removing foreign tour guides from popular tourist sites across Thailand. According to Thai law, tourism businesses must be owned and operated by Thai nationals, with Thai shareholders holding at least 51% of any such company. To ensure compliance, the ministry plans to collaborate with several government bodies, including the Department of Tourism, the Department of Business Development, the Department of Special Investigation, the Tourism Police Bureau, and the Immigration Bureau, to scrutinise businesses suspected of using local proxies. Minister Sorawong also noted that many tourism businesses continue to face challenges due to ongoing capacity constraints post-Covid-19. The government is coordinating with airlines to reinstate routes that were cancelled during the pandemic, particularly targeting connections with India as the high tourism season approaches. Additionally, efforts are underway to dismantle illegal "zero-dollar" tour operations, which essentially create isolated tourism ecosystems catering solely to foreign visitors. This year, more than 40 such businesses have been shut down by the authorities, a significant move towards preserving the integrity of Thailand’s tourism industry, reported Bangkok Post. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-10-22

Koh Chang Ranked World's Second-Best Tropical Destination by Krajangwit Johjit Koh Chang has been ranked the second-best tropical destination in the world by the esteemed travel magazine Travel + Leisure. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341338-koh-chang-ranked-worlds-second-best-tropical-destination/

Koh Chang has been ranked the second-best tropical destination in the world by the esteemed travel magazine Travel + Leisure. Often referred to as the “Jewel of the Gulf of Thailand,” the island was recognized alongside other renowned Southeast Asian destinations such as Palawan in the Philippines and Bali in Indonesia. According to Mu Koh Chang National Park Chief Neramit Songsagne, the island now stands among the world’s premier vacation spots. The Maldives claimed the top position in the rankings, with Koh Chang securing second place, followed by the Hawaiian Islands in third. Koh Chang’s inclusion in this prestigious list reaffirms its growing appeal to international visitors, further cementing Thailand’s reputation as a premier destination for natural beauty and cultural exploration. by Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT -- 2024-10-22

Luxury Condo in Pattaya Causes Dust and Noise Disturbance Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In Pattaya, residents and rental operators have raised concerns over the construction of a luxury condominium, soaring over 60 stories high, in the Taphra Ya 9-15 area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341333-luxury-condo-in-pattaya-causes-dust-and-noise-disturbance/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In Pattaya, residents and rental operators have raised concerns over the construction of a luxury condominium, soaring over 60 stories high, in the Taphra Ya 9-15 area. For over two years, dust and noise from the building site have disrupted the lives of those living nearby, yet no assistance has been forthcoming from local authorities. Chalida, a 52-year-old business operator in Taphra Ya 9, expressed frustration, stating that the construction has led to relentless dust and noise issues. She noted that many residents are gradually moving out due to the unbearable sound levels, which sometimes extend to midnight. Chalida shared video footage with reporters, highlighting the severe impact of the dust and noise from the construction site, along with her attempts to file complaints with various authorities, including the Pattaya City Council, all to no avail. The situation is particularly dire for those residing on the seventh floor, which has been vacated entirely due to the noise and dust from cement pouring on the surrounding streets. Reporters observed thick layers of dust on windows and floors, alongside cracks in the buildings nearby, indicating the extent of the problem. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Furthermore, staff members and housekeepers have reported respiratory issues due to the pervasive dust, necessitating the use of face masks at all times. Despite their struggles, no agency has stepped in to address these health concerns. Recently, MP Yodchai Phungporn from Chonburi visited the site to listen to the grievances of both business owners and residents. He plans to present their complaints regarding the dust and noise to the House of Representatives’ Land and Environment Committee for further action, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-10-22

71-year-old Chinese Fugitive Arrested in Thailand after 201-Days Overstay Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A 71-year-old Chinese national, Mr. Su Sihan, was arrested in the Thonburi area of Bangkok on 21st October at 3:00 PM by officers from Thailand’s Immigration Division 1. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341332-71-year-old-chinese-fugitive-arrested-in-thailand-after-201-days-overstay/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A 71-year-old Chinese national, Mr. Su Sihan, was arrested in the Thonburi area of Bangkok on 21st October at 3:00 PM by officers from Thailand’s Immigration Division 1. The operation was led by Pol. Maj. Gen. Prasat Khemprasith, head of Immigration Division 1, alongside Pol. Col. Rapeepat Utsaha, Pol. Col. Kajphon Pathamang, and Pol. Lt. Col. Chayut Nilprasert. Mr. Su had entered Thailand on 7th July 2023, on a temporary visa, but it was revoked on 3rd April 2024, marking a 201-days overstay. Prior to the arrest, the investigative team had learned that Mr. Su was wanted by Chinese authorities for fraud. A warrant for his arrest had been issued by the Public Security Bureau in Chaozhou, China. The Thai Immigration Office had already revoked his visa. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath The authorities charged Mr. Su with overstaying his visa and handed him over to investigators at the Immigration Division for further processing. They are coordinating with the Chinese Embassy in Thailand to arrange his extradition and prosecution according to legal procedures, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-10-22

Lisa Blackpink to Perform in Bangkok for Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 video screenshot Renowned artist Lalisa "Lisa" Manoban from Blackpink is set to dazzle audiences with a special performance at the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 in Bangkok. This exciting news was confirmed by Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong, marking a significant highlight for Thailand's New Year's Eve celebrations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341325-lisa-blackpink-to-perform-in-bangkok-for-amazing-thailand-countdown-2025/

video screenshot Renowned artist Lalisa "Lisa" Manoban from Blackpink is set to dazzle audiences with a special performance at the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 in Bangkok. This exciting news was confirmed by Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong, marking a significant highlight for Thailand's New Year's Eve celebrations. Minister Sorawong announced that the government is focused on attracting more international artists and festivals to Thailand as part of its strategy to enhance tourism spending. Lisa's performance at the countdown event is expected to draw massive attention, as confirmed by event organisers in collaboration with the ministry. Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool mentioned that while several countdown festivals are being supported this year, Lisa's participation was secured by private sector efforts. This blend of public and private collaboration underlines the importance of entertainment in boosting Thailand's tourism industry. Lisa has recently released "Moonlit Floor," her third single under her own company, LLOUD, signed with RCA Records, a subsidiary of Sony Music. Remarkably, her first single, "Rockstar," garnered an impressive 200 million views on YouTube just last week, underscoring her global popularity and influence, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-22

Fresh Push to Send Thaksin Back to Jail Intensifies Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The Thai political landscape is witnessing yet another ripple as a fresh move by former Democrat MP Charnchai Issarasenarak seeks to have ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra returned to jail. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341324-fresh-push-to-send-thaksin-back-to-jail-intensifies/

The Thai political landscape is witnessing yet another ripple as a fresh move by former Democrat MP Charnchai Issarasenarak seeks to have ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra returned to jail. Thaksin, a prominent figure in Thailand's political scenario and father of current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has come under scrutiny once more for allegedly circumventing his jail term. Having been granted a royal pardon last year upon his return from a self-imposed 17-year exile, Thaksin's initial eight-year sentence for power abuse was reduced to a single year. However, it is claimed that Thaksin has not served this year-long sentence in full, avoiding physical incarceration altogether. Instead, he spent six months in a private ward at the Police Hospital before his release on parole earlier in the year, sparking accusations of legal manipulation. Charnchai is appealing to Thailand's Supreme Court to rule retroactively, asserting that Thaksin had utilised his influence to evade jail, a move that is "categorically against the law." The crux of the matter lies in whether the Corrections Department legally transferred Thaksin to the hospital. Normally, such a transfer would necessitate prior approval from the Criminal Court, something that allegedly did not occur in this case, regardless of Thaksin's reported "critical illness." Should the Supreme Court rule in favour of Charnchai's petition, Thaksin could face returning to prison to complete his sentence. Further, Corrections Department Director-General Sahakarn Petchnarin could also face misconduct charges if found complicit. This development adds another layer to the saga surrounding the Shinawatra family and their ongoing influence in Thai politics. The outcome of this legal challenge will undoubtedly impact the country's political narrative in the coming months, reported Thai Newsroom. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-10-22

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 22 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1341306-thailand-live-tuesday-22-october-2024/