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Picture courtesy of Daily News An altercation between a man and a woman in Si Racha turned violent, leading to injuries and a police investigation. The incident, which occurred on Sriracha-Nong Kho Road in Mueang subdistrict, Chon Buri province, has shocked the local community. The victim, identified as 36-year-old Kanokwan, was discovered by emergency services with a deep cut on her forehead. Despite the evident pain, she managed to communicate with the responders, who noted her intoxicated state. Opposite from her was Pat, the alleged assailant, aged 48, also displaying signs of inebriation. The sequence of events, as pieced together from the accounts of those involved, began with Kanokwan drinking with friends at Pat's residence. Initially, there were three individuals, but one friend left, leaving Kanokwan and Pat alone. Kanokwan claimed that as the evening progressed, Pat propositioned her, but she declined, which reportedly led to a confrontation. According to Pat, Kanokwan and another friend had joined him the previous evening for a drinking session. After their friend left, Kanokwan remained behind. He mentioned some physical contact but insisted that it was consensual, and there was no sexual intercourse, citing his inability to do so. The two allegedly fell asleep, signalling a temporary truce. However, tensions flared again the next day when Kanokwan expressed a desire to continue drinking, prompting Pat to fetch more alcohol on credit worth approximately 500 Thai Baht. The mood shifted dramatically when Kanokwan accidentally toppled the table, spilling the newly purchased alcohol. In a fit of anger, Pat reportedly struck Kanokwan with a wooden chair, resulting in her head injury. The altercation’s violent turn became apparent when Kanokwan's boyfriend received a distress call and rushed to the scene, finding her injured. He mentioned that this was not her first escapade, as she had periodically disappeared for drinking binges throughout the year, though he never anticipated such violence. Kanokwan was transported to the hospital for treatment and plans to obtain a medical certificate. She has expressed her intention to press charges, signalling the involvement of local authorities. The Si Racha Police Station has indicated that they will be launching an investigation into the incident, bringing clarity and hopefully justice to this troubling episode. This altercation not only underscores the potential dangers associated with excessive drinking but also highlights the importance of resolving conflicts without resorting to violence. The incident is a stark reminder of the responsibilities of individuals to handle disputes with composure and respect, ensuring the safety and well-being of all involved, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-14

Thaksin Shinawatra. File photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's upcoming no-confidence debate against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra will proceed as planned after opposition parties settled on an agreement to exclude former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's name from the proceedings. This development came to light following a significant meeting between government and opposition whips, attended by Parliament President Wan Muhamad Noor Matha and opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut. The debate, scheduled for 24th March, centres on the leadership of Ms Paetongtarn and will pass a crucial point by reworking the censure motion to avoid direct mentions of Thaksin. Mr Natthaphong confirmed this adjustment, indicating a strategic use of indirect references to allude to the influential figure during the discussion. "Thaksin remains a public figure with ample opportunity to defend himself through media channels, without the need for parliamentary discourse," Mr Natthaphong remarked. He further revealed that the opposition had initially requested 30 hours for the debate as a condition for excluding Thaksin's name, a move met with resistance from government whips. Final arrangements for the debate's schedule remain under discussion, with both sides set to reconvene next Wednesday. Government sources have hinted at a preference for a concise, two-day debate, allowing an additional day for the necessary confidence vote, in which the Prime Minister will field responses to opposition criticisms. Parliament President Mr Wan had previously cautioned against naming outsiders, specifically concerning references to Ms Paetongtarn's father, to comply with parliamentary regulation No.176. Naming Thaksin, deemed an outsider, could breach these regulations and potentially lead to defamation lawsuits, as Mr Wan explained. Interestingly, the opposition has lodged a formal objection to the imposed restriction, as reported by Arpath Sukhanunth, secretary-general of the House of Representatives. Historical precedence shows previous censure motions have avoided naming external individuals explicitly, opting for more opaque terms like "family members" or "former members." Ms Paetongtarn spoke out from Government House on Thursday, acknowledging potential indirect references to her father, with names such as "that man" hinted at being likely euphemisms used within the debate context. This censure motion, filed on 27th February, confronts Ms Paetongtarn over her alleged lack of leadership and purported influence from her father, Thaksin. Nevertheless, she maintains readiness to address all concerns, entrusting other ministers to handle questions pertinent to their portfolios. Confident in the coalition's resilience, Ms Paetongtarn asserts that their unity will withstand the opposition's challenge, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-14

Picture courtesy of Wikipedia The Thai government has taken a bold step forward, announcing plans to develop major entertainment complexes in Bangkok, Chon Buri, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. This announcement comes amidst vocal public criticism, highlighting the country's strategy to stimulate tourism and economic growth through these ventures. Nikom Boonwiset, vice-chairman of the special committee overseeing this ambitious project, revealed these plans on Thursday. As an influential MP from the ruling Pheu Thai Party, Mr. Nikom expressed optimism about the project, which is projected to cost a staggering 500 billion Thai Baht and attract upwards of 50 million tourists each year. The proposed complexes are expected to generate approximately 40,000 new jobs, positioning Thailand as a sought-after destination for global tourists and business investments alike. International investors have already begun to express keen interest, eyeing the vast potential of Thailand's entertainment industry. Mr. Nikom emphasised that each complex would include luxurious five-star hotels, bustling shopping malls, thrilling amusement parks, state-of-the-art sports arenas, and grand convention centres. Although the inclusion of casinos has attracted significant attention, Mr. Nikom insists that less than 10% of each complex would be devoted to gambling, challenging public perceptions that the developments are predominantly casino-focused. The Entertainment Complex Bill was slated for discussion in a recent cabinet meeting, but this was delayed due to an ongoing public feedback process managed by the Ministry of Finance. Concerns from protest groups have necessitated a thorough review of public sentiment before proceeding. The feedback window remains open until Friday, after which revisions based on public opinion will be sent back to the cabinet. Despite the positive outlook from policymakers, criticism persists. Thanakorn Khomkrit, secretary-general of the Stop Gambling Foundation, has openly criticised the bill, citing loopholes and insufficient preventative measures against youth gambling. Mr. Thanakorn highlights the ambiguity surrounding casino regulations, such as the number of establishments, gambling space proportions, licensing fees, and tax rates. Additionally, the bill's allowance for 'other businesses' within casino complexes has sparked fear of potential money laundering through intermediary services known as junket operations. Such concerns underscore the need for clear, robust regulations to safeguard the integrity of Thailand’s financial landscape. As the Entertainment Complex Bill continues to evolve, Thailand faces a critical juncture. The country stands on the brink of a transformative era in tourism and entertainment, but how it navigates these opportunities and challenges will determine its ultimate success, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-14

Endangered Crocodile Discovery Sparks Hope for Conservation Picture courtesy of Thai Rath In a remarkable turn of events, researchers have captured images of the critically endangered Thai freshwater crocodile sunbathing in Thung Salaeng Luang National Park. This significant finding in Phitsanulok Province suggests that the ecosystems in the park remain robust enough to support such rare wildlife. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354556-endangered-crocodile-discovery-sparks-hope-for-conservation/

Picture courtesy of Thai Rath In a remarkable turn of events, researchers have captured images of the critically endangered Thai freshwater crocodile sunbathing in Thung Salaeng Luang National Park. This significant finding in Phitsanulok Province suggests that the ecosystems in the park remain robust enough to support such rare wildlife. The discovery was made by a team led by Ms. Daengrawee Phromrak from the Conservation Area Management Office 11, who has been closely monitoring the area since 2014. These researchers have been diligently surveying tracks and installing wildlife camera traps to monitor the elusive species. While locals have occasionally reported seeing crocodiles, the last documented sighting in the area was in 2013. Known scientifically as Crocodylus siamensis, the Thai freshwater crocodile, sometimes called the Siamese crocodile, is native to Southeast Asia. A fully grown adult measures approximately 3 to 4 metres in length. These crocodiles become sexually mature at 10 to 12 years of age, laying around 20 to 48 eggs with an incubation period extending from 68 to 85 days. Preferring still or slow-moving water, they primarily feed on fish and small animals. Crucially, these creatures are not typically aggressive towards humans unless provoked or faced with food scarcity. Historically, Thai freshwater crocodiles inhabited much of Southeast Asia, including numerous locations within Thailand. However, their numbers have dwindled to alarming levels, prompting their classification as critically endangered by both the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). The photographic evidence of these crocodiles in Thung Salaeng Luang National Park is a promising sign for conservationists. It indicates that despite global ecological pressures, certain habitats remain intact enough to support these rare creatures. This discovery could invigorate efforts to protect and possibly increase their numbers in the wild. Nonetheless, conservation challenges persist. The Khlong Chompoo area, where the crocodile was sighted, could potentially face future environmental impacts due to proposed reservoir projects. It is crucial for ongoing conservation efforts to ensure that such developments do not jeopardise the already precarious existence of these crocodiles. In conclusion, while the sighting offers a glimmer of hope, it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight to protect our planet's biodiversity. For these reptiles, symbols of Southeast Asia's natural heritage, efforts must be intensified to secure their survival in an ever-changing world, reported Thai Rath. -- 2025-03-14

Mixed Reactions to Viral Video of Phuket Police Restraining Foreigner - video Photo via Facebook/ Brenin DeOliveira A viral video showing two Thai police officers restraining a foreign man who allegedly attacked a woman in Phuket has sparked mixed reactions on social media. The video, posted by a foreign user named Brenin DeOliveira on March 12, shows officers using force against the man after he reportedly claimed that no man could control him. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354499-mixed-reactions-to-viral-video-of-phuket-police-restraining-foreigner-video/

Cannabis Bust at Koh Samui Airport: Brits and Malaysian Nabbed File photo for reference only In a major drug bust at Koh Samui International Airport, Thai authorities seized 140 kilograms of dried cannabis flowers from seven suitcases belonging to five foreign passengers. The haul, valued at around 4 million baht, was en route to Singapore, with plans to continue onto the UK. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354496-cannabis-bust-at-koh-samui-airport-brits-and-malaysian-nabbed/

British Retirees Escape Thai Jail After Violent Land Dispute Picture courtesy of The BBC Des and Mary Byrne, a British couple, have narrowly avoided a prison sentence in Thailand, receiving fines of 9,000 baht (£200) instead. Their ordeal began in 2020 when they retired to Thailand’s Thai Riviera, only to be embroiled in a violent dispute over land access, shattering their dream retirement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354494-british-retirees-escape-thai-jail-after-violent-land-dispute/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 14 March 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1354495-thailand-live-friday-14-march-2025/

British TikTok Star Jailed in Thailand Over Visa and Benefit Fraud Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail Ellis Matthews, a British TikTok influencer from Lancashire, has found herself in a Thai prison for overstaying her visa. Known online as @mumontheruninasia, Ellis attracted attention for sharing her lavish lifestyle, funded by UK benefits allegedly. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354493-british-tiktok-star-jailed-in-thailand-over-visa-and-benefit-fraud/

Soi Bangla Scuffle: Tourist Beaten After Leaving without Paying Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A dramatic scene unfolded in the early hours on Phuket's renowned Soi Bangla when a tourist was allegedly attacked by a group of local ladyboys. The incident is said to have been sparked by the tourist leaving a restaurant without settling his bill. Taking place in the bustling Patong area, the altercation began when the tourist attempted to leave the venue without paying. Witnesses reported that the man faced a confrontation from a group of ladyboys who were displeased with his apparent attempt to dodge the bill. The situation quickly escalated into violence, as captured by bystanders on their phones. The tourist, overwhelmed by punches and kicks, struggled to shield himself and retaliated, albeit briefly, only to be overpowered and knocked down to the ground. The scuffle drew the attention of many passersby, creating a substantial crowd that buzzed with a mix of shock and curiosity. The altercation reached its peak before local law enforcement arrived, swiftly working to separate the involved parties and prevent the clash from worsening. Fortunately, despite the intensity of the exchange, no serious injuries were reported, and neither the tourist nor the ladyboys opted to submit formal complaints against each other. However, Patong police have indicated their preparedness to handle any future legal proceedings should any party decide otherwise. This incident has reignited discussions on safety and public order within Bangla Road, a hotspot in Thailand's nightlife scene frequently visited by tourists. The occurrence underscores the necessity for enhanced security measures to ensure the safety of both locals and visitors, promoting Phuket's image as a welcoming tourist destination. The situation harks back to a similar scenario in Krabi earlier this month, where another tourist made headlines for leaving a restaurant without paying. The man, described as tall with significant tattoos, dined at a well-regarded establishment and made his exit under the guise of using the restroom. CCTV footage from the event circulated online, serving as a warning to businesses about potential dine-and-dashers and urging the public to be vigilant. These incidents highlight a broader challenge faced by Thailand's tourist spots where hospitality and security must be finely balanced. As both local authorities and business owners ponder over solutions, the need for consistent vigilance and respectful conduct by all remains a clear takeaway for maintaining the region's desirable allure, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Altercation Erupts Between Tourist and Ladyboys in Phuket A late-night confrontation on Phuket's Bangla Road between a group of ladyboys and a tourist escalated into a street brawl, before police intervened to prevent further chaos. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354468-altercation-erupts-between-tourists-and-ladyboys-in-phuket/

Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A late-night confrontation on Phuket's Bangla Road between a group of ladyboys and a tourist escalated into a street brawl, before police intervened to prevent further chaos. In the early hours of 12th March 2025, the incident unfolded in the bustling tourist hub of Patong's Bangla Road. The commotion erupted when a conflict over an unpaid meal quickly turned physical. Video footage captured tourists and local ladyboys in a heated argument, which then escalated into a fight. According to the video, as tensions rose, the group of ladyboys engaged in physical assaults against the tourist, knocking him to the ground. The tourist attempted to defend himself, but the situation became more chaotic as the group responded aggressively. Fortunately, the local Patong police arrived swiftly to de-escalate the situation, preventing further violence. The incident drew a crowd of onlookers and highlighted ongoing safety concerns in the popular tourist destination, notorious for such altercations. No serious injuries or legal actions have been reported as yet. Nonetheless, Patong police remain vigilant and are prepared to take legal steps should anyone wish to press charges, reported Amarin TV. -- 2025-03-13

UPDATE: Police Reopen Chilling 2012 Murder Case of UK Teacher Picture courtesy of Shine The relentless pursuit of justice has reignited attention on a tragic murder case as West Yorkshire Police reopened the investigation into the unsolved killing of Adam Pickles, a former British teacher, brutally attacked 12 years ago in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354419-adam-pickles-uk-murder-inquiry-linked-to-2012-pattaya-assault/#findComment-19654522

Police Reopen Chilling 2012 Murder Case of UK Teacher Picture courtesy of Shine The relentless pursuit of justice has reignited attention on a tragic murder case as West Yorkshire Police reopened the investigation into the unsolved killing of Adam Pickles, a former British teacher, brutally attacked 12 years ago in Thailand. Pickles, once a dedicated head of English at Regents International School in Pattaya, became the victim of a horrifying road rage incident in May 2012. He suffered catastrophic brain injuries after being bludgeoned with an iron bar during the assault, which ultimately led to his death in West Yorkshire in January 2021 after years of intensive care. Despite previous legal proceedings, a fresh probe has been launched with detectives urging those with potential information, particularly individuals who were in Thailand at the time, to come forward. This renewed effort hopes to unravel the mystery and bring long-awaited closure to the victim's family. In an earlier trial, Sean Tinsley, hailing from Wolverhampton, was sentenced to six years in prison for assaulting Pickles. Initially charged with attempted murder, Tinsley's verdict was reduced following an appeal. Additionally, he faced a financial penalty of 6.2 million Thai baht (£114,000). His eventual release and the unresolved circumstances surrounding Pickles’ attack leave unanswered questions that police are now keenly pursuing. Adam Pickles’ story is a stark reminder of the enduring pain experienced by families of violent crime victims. His mother, Adele Pickles, from Thorner, near Leeds, has been a steadfast voice advocating for justice. Reflecting on the sentence at the time, she expressed a profound sense of justice while emphasizing the absence of vengeance, acknowledging the importance of truth and resolution for her son Adam and his child, Benjamin. The resurgence of this case comes as Detective Chief Inspector Damian Roebuck appeals to the public for critical information. “We need any witnesses or those who might have heard confessions related to this heinous crime to step forward,” Roebuck stated, reiterating the urgency of unearthing the truth behind the attack that cost Pickles his life. Anyone with information pertinent to the murder is encouraged to contact West Yorkshire Police's Homicide and Major Enquiry Team via phone at 101, use the live chat service, or provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or online. For the Pickles family, every piece of information brings hope. With renewed police efforts and potential breakthroughs, the quest for justice persists unabated, fuelled by the enduring love and determination of those Adam left behind, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. Picture courtesy Bangkok Post In a move to ensure transparency, the Ministry of Labour has pledged full cooperation with an inquiry into alleged overpayment by the Social Security Office (SSO) for the SKYY9 Centre on Rama IX Road. The office reportedly spent 6.9 billion baht on a building purportedly worth only 3 billion baht. Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to transparency in the ongoing investigation. "We welcome scrutiny of the SKYY9 purchase. The SSO engaged independent appraisers to evaluate whether the investment was prudent," Phiphat stated. The inquiry panel consists of seven members, including high-ranking officials from the Labour Ministry and the SSO. This follows Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's directive to Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to spearhead the investigation. Despite the SSO’s affiliation with the Labour Ministry, Anutin clarified his involvement stems from his concurrent role as Deputy Prime Minister overseeing the ministry. Complications arise as the current permanent secretary for labour, Boonsong Thapchaiyut, was the SSO's secretary-general during the transaction. While declined to comment, Boonsong merely acknowledged the legal compliance query with a nod. Allegations of the purchase price being inflated have been publicly challenged by Deputy Commerce Minister Suchart Chomklin. He refuted accusations by Rukchanok Srinork, a People's Party MP, accusing her of distorting facts through political manoeuvring. The SKYY9 Centre’s complex history reveals a building once stalled by the 1997 financial crisis and later frequently changing hands, acquiring varied appraisals. The SSO contends its 6.9 billion baht purchase aligns with an SEC-certified estimation, despite public scepticism. Implemented through a Private Equity Trust under SEC regulation, the SSO’s investment in SKYY9 came after multiple renovative resales, sparking debate over valuation techniques. Interestingly, despite the controversy, 45% of SKYY9's space is reportedly occupied or soon-to-be, with rental rates standing at 600 baht per square metre. Prompted by possible irregularities, the inquiry seeks to unravel the intricacies of the SSO's hefty commitment. Whether the amount reflects the centre’s true market value or an oversight in fiduciary responsibility remains under close examination. Both governmental accountability and stakeholder trust hinge on the investigation’s transparency and resolution, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-13

Picture courtesy of Bngkok Post The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is preparing to embark on essential repairs to the iconic Giant Swing amid escalating concerns regarding its structural integrity. This monumental task comes after a comprehensive inspection revealed significant deterioration in the landmark, raising alarms about its safety and future. Thaiwut Khankaew, the director of BMA's City Planning and Development Office, announced the impending repair works following a collaborative assessment with the Thailand Structural Engineers Association (TSEA). The findings from the inspection pointed to severe damage, including cracks, peeling, and general weakening of the wood—a consequence of relentless exposure to weather, fluctuating temperatures, and inevitable natural ageing of materials. Such issues, officials noted, present a tangible threat to the Giant Swing's stability. The TSEA has urgently advised reinforcing the structure before the onset of the summer storm season. Once stabilised, a more in-depth examination will aid in selecting the most appropriate restoration techniques. Mr Thaiwut explained that the repair strategy would involve different levels of intervention, costing a substantial amount of fiscal outlay and time, all while strictly adhering to guidelines set by the Fine Arts Department. To ensure transparency and efficiency, the BMA plans to initiate a bidding process to secure a contractor tasked with these critical reinforcements. He also mentioned hiring a consultant to study potential restoration methods, whose recommendations will be submitted for approval to the Fine Arts Department. Located adjacent to City Hall in the Phra Nakhon district, the Giant Swing, or Sao Chingcha, holds significant historical value. It was officially recognised as a historical site in 1988. The Fine Arts Department, acknowledging the structure's perilous state, has given the nod to the City Planning and Development Office to advance with necessary repairs. The department stresses using traditional materials and meticulous attention to historical detail, cautioning against modern alterations that could compromise the site's heritage. The last comprehensive restoration of the Giant Swing occurred back in December 2017, a joint effort by the BMA and the Fine Arts Department. This current initiative underscores the ongoing commitment to preserving this cultural emblem for future generations, estimated to involve several million Thai Baht. As Bangkok braces for the advent of summer storms, the urgency in reinforcing this treasured landmark cannot be overstated. Locals and tourists alike eagerly anticipate the day when the Giant Swing stands fully restored, continuing to be a symbol of Bangkok’s rich heritage and resilience, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-13

Bangkok's Iconic Giant Swing Set for Critical Repairs Picture courtesy of Bngkok Post The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is preparing to embark on essential repairs to the iconic Giant Swing amid escalating concerns regarding its structural integrity. This monumental task comes after a comprehensive inspection revealed significant deterioration in the landmark, raising alarms about its safety and future. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354445-bangkoks-iconic-giant-swing-set-for-critical-repairs/

Labour Ministry to Assist Investigation in SKYY9 Centre Overpayment Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. Picture courtesy Bangkok Post In a move to ensure transparency, the Ministry of Labour has pledged full cooperation with an inquiry into alleged overpayment by the Social Security Office (SSO) for the SKYY9 Centre on Rama IX Road. The office reportedly spent 6.9 billion baht on a building purportedly worth only 3 billion baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354444-labour-ministry-to-assist-investigation-in-skyy9-centre-overpayment/

Court Dismisses Thai Cabinet's Plea for Clarification on Minister Ethics Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's Constitutional Court has dismissed a petition from the cabinet seeking clarity on "a lack of clear honesty" under current legal frameworks. The petition was rejected on Wednesday on the grounds that it pertained to legal interpretation, thus not meeting the criteria for judicial review. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354443-court-dismisses-thai-cabinets-plea-for-clarification-on-minister-ethics/

Thai Pilots Plan Legal Action Against Labour Ministry Over Foreign Pilot Permits Picture courtesy of Wikipedia The Thai Pilots Association is gearing up for a legal battle against the Labour Ministry, intending to file a lawsuit in the Administrative Court this Friday. The association seeks a temporary injunction against foreign pilots operating domestic flights, invoking concerns over job opportunities and the future of Thailand's aviation industry. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354441-thai-pilots-plan-legal-action-against-labour-ministry-over-foreign-pilot-permits/

Constitutional Court Urged to Annul Thai Senatorial Elections Picture courtesy of Thai Rath In an unprecedented move today, former Office of the Ombudsman adviser Nataporn Toprayoon called upon Thailand's Constitutional Court to invalidate last year's senatorial elections, citing significant misconduct by the Election Commission. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354431-constitutional-court-urged-to-annul-thai-senatorial-elections/

Warning to Parents: Skewer Accident Highlights Safety Tip Image courtesy of Daily News A popular Facebook page has issued a warning to parents after a young child was injured when a grilled pork skewer pierced their face. The advice: always break off the sharp ends of skewers before giving them to your children. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354428-warning-to-parents-skewer-accident-highlights-safety-tip/

Picture courtesy of Wikipedia The Thai Pilots Association is gearing up for a legal battle against the Labour Ministry, intending to file a lawsuit in the Administrative Court this Friday. The association seeks a temporary injunction against foreign pilots operating domestic flights, invoking concerns over job opportunities and the future of Thailand's aviation industry. This move comes in response to a cabinet decision made last December, which temporarily allowed foreign pilots to operate domestic flights through wet lease agreements—measures aimed at alleviating aircraft shortages. However, this decision has stirred controversy among local pilots. Teerawat Angkasakulkiat, president of the Thai Pilots Association, argues that the cabinet's approval infringes upon two significant laws: the 2017 Foreigners Working Management Emergency Decree and the 1954 Air Navigation Act. He points out that Section 7 of the Ministry's decree explicitly bans foreigners from flying domestic routes. While the decree does offer exceptions under Section 14 for national security, economic security, and public disaster prevention, Teerawat asserts that bolstering the tourism industry does not qualify as an exception related to economic security. The Air Navigation Act further stipulates, under Section 44, that pilots must be Thai nationals unless special approval is granted by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). Teerawat stresses that the wet lease arrangement categorises pilots as on-duty officers, and claims no such exception has been authorised by CAAT. Therefore, he argues, the Labour Ministry and the cabinet lack the legal authority to authorise foreign pilot employment. In a broader context, Teerawat expresses concern that normalising wet lease agreements could harm Thailand's aviation sector long-term. He points out that numerous local pilots remain unemployed despite being ready for work, suggesting that employing foreign pilots diminishes job prospects for these professionals. Furthermore, this policy might deter airlines from investing in training Thai pilots, potentially destabilising the industry. The association plans to proceed with the court filing tomorrow, recognising the legal outcome is uncertain but committed to defending domestic pilot interests. Teerawat also worries about the possibility of extending the temporary pilot permits beyond an initial one-year period, which could set a precedent affecting the aviation industry's framework in Thailand, reportedn Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-13

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's Constitutional Court has dismissed a petition from the cabinet seeking clarity on "a lack of clear honesty" under current legal frameworks. The petition was rejected on Wednesday on the grounds that it pertained to legal interpretation, thus not meeting the criteria for judicial review. The plea, initiated by Prime Minister's Office Minister Chousak Sirinil on the cabinet's behalf, sought elucidation of Section 160 of the constitution and Section 9 of the Holders of Political Positions Act. These sections dictate the ethical and moral standards required of cabinet ministers and other political office-holders, mandating clear honesty and the absence of serious ethical breaches. Linkages have been drawn between this petition and Thailand's former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's removal from office by the Constitutional Court last August. His ousting followed an ethical violation involving the contentious appointment of Pichit Chuenban, a former convict, as a cabinet minister. The court had previously emphasised the importance of sound judgement in ministerial appointments for royal approval. The court retains authority to adjudicate on matters involving constitutional roles and powers vested in the governmental and legislative branches, as per Section 210 of the constitution. However, it specified that petitions must relate to an existing dispute over constitutional duties and powers. In the cabinet's case, the court found the petition to be a mere request for interpretation rather than resolution of a specific disagreement, leading to its rejection. The ruling, decided by an 8-1 majority, saw only one dissenting voice from Judge Udom Sitthiwirattham, who argued that the petition met the necessary criteria for examination. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra had earlier clarified the cabinet’s request was not connected to any anticipated cabinet reshuffle but was a preventative measure against potential future ethical complaints. Following Mr. Srettha's removal, there has been speculation that Section 160 might be wielded against the current cabinet under similar ethical scrutiny. The court's decision to reject the plea highlights the judiciary's stance on maintaining the distinction between legal interpretation and judicial review scope, upholding the procedural safeguards embedded in Thailand's constitutional framework, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-13