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Today, controversy has erupted around sensational allegations presented by new senator, Premsak Piayura. He claims that an unnamed political party is attempting to covertly recruit senators by offering them regular payments, luxury vehicles, and additional staffing. This purported bribery aims to secure unwavering support for upcoming legislative efforts by the implicated party. Premsak Piayura, who recently transitioned from being a Member of Parliament from Khon Kaen to a senator, refrained from specifying which party was involved. However, observers note that he hinted towards the involvement of certain influential political figures by highlighting the suspicious alignment of some senators with specific partisan agendas. The senator’s accusations spotlight the broader, troubling implications of such activities undermining the roles of senators. Constitutionally, senators are entrusted to act independently, serving as crucial figures in selecting members of significant independent agencies. This includes the Constitutional Court, the National Anti-Corruption Commission, and the Election Commission. Any compromise in their impartiality could skew critical oversight and governance functions they are meant to uphold. In the wake of these allegations, Premsak Piayura has also announced the formation of a group named "white senators." This group, currently consisting of twelve members, pledges to maintain their independence and neutrality away from any party lines. They are symbolized by white wristbands, representing their commitment to transparency and impartial governance. This unfolding story strikes at the core of political integrity and the supposed independence of the Senate. It raises urgent questions about the effectiveness of current safeguards against political corruption and whether additional measures might be needed to preserve the sanctity of these democratic institutions. TOP: Premsak Piayura. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-07-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fake Journalist Causes Hospital Havoc Amid Emergency Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a shocking revelation, a widely followed Facebook page, AggressiveDoctor, recently discovered an individual impersonating a journalist from a reputable news outlet, causing chaos at a hospital during an emergency situation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332849-fake-journalist-causes-hospital-havoc-amid-emergency/

In a shocking revelation, a widely followed Facebook page, AggressiveDoctor, recently discovered an individual impersonating a journalist from a reputable news outlet, causing chaos at a hospital during an emergency situation. The suspect, identified on Facebook as Frong Khao Sod Nakhon Phanom, was involved in an altercation with hospital emergency staff while they attended to an accident victim. According to reports, the conflict erupted when Frong attempted to take unauthorized photographs of the medical procedures, leading the hospital staff to intervene to protect patient privacy and ensure compliance with computer-related laws. The altercation escalated when the hospital staff decided to remove Frong from the premises due to disruptive behavior. In retaliation, Frong took to social media to post derogatory comments and photographs of the hospital staff. The incident raised significant concerns about the impersonation of professionals and the violation of ethics. The news outlet, misrepresented by Frong, promptly issued a statement disassociating itself from him. After conducting an internal investigation, it was confirmed that Frong was neither an employee nor affiliated with the organization in any journalistic capacity. The news outlet sternly condemned these actions and announced intentions to pursue legal avenues against Frong for damages caused by impersonation and defamation. This statement highlighted the broader implications of such incidents, including the potential risk to the integrity of journalistic standards and public trust in the media. The story is a stark reminder of the importance of verifying the credentials of individuals claiming to be journalists, especially in sensitive environments like hospitals where privacy and professionalism are of utmost importance. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-07-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai highway drama: Cops revive smuggler with life-saving CPR by Ryan Turner Picture courtesy of Khaosod Thai Highway Police officers provided CPR to a man who fell unconscious from shock after being arrested for smuggling 111 Myanmar nationals. The incident took place yesterday, July 11, when police stopped a suspicious truck covered with a tarp on Highway 41 in Surat Thani province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332847-thai-highway-drama-cops-revive-smuggler-with-life-saving-cpr/

Thai Highway Police officers provided CPR to a man who fell unconscious from shock after being arrested for smuggling 111 Myanmar nationals. The incident took place yesterday, July 11, when police stopped a suspicious truck covered with a tarp on Highway 41 in Surat Thani province. Police General Kongkrit Lertsitthikul ordered a team to lead the operation, arresting 33 year old Anan and 23 year old Kueakun, both of whom are Myanmar nationals. The truck was found to be smuggling 111 Myanmar migrants, including 89 men and 22 women, packed tightly inside. Upon inspection, officers discovered the truck had a small ventilation hole, which prompted them to signal the driver to stop for a search. Anan was driving the truck, with Kueakun sitting beside him. When the officers removed the tarp, they uncovered the large group of migrants, who were detained and taken to the Chaiya Highway Police Service Unit for questioning. During the interrogation, Anan confessed that he was hired to transport the migrants by a group via the LINE application. He explained that he was instructed to pick up Kueakun at a hotel in Ratchaburi province. Kueakun then led him to collect the migrants, destined for the Hat Yai district in Songkhla province, in exchange for 50,000 baht. However, they were intercepted and arrested before they could complete the smuggling job. While being questioned, Kueakun experienced severe convulsions, leading to cardiac arrest and cessation of breathing. Officers quickly administered CPR for approximately two minutes, successfully reviving him. He was then rushed to Chaiya Hospital, where his condition was reported to be stable and out of immediate danger. Both Anan and Kueakun have been charged with concealing and aiding illegal immigrants to evade arrest. The 111 Myanmar nationals have been charged with entering and residing in the Kingdom of Thailand without permission. They were subsequently handed over to the Chaiya Police Station for further legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod. by Ryan Turner Picture courtesy of Khaosod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand is 'shocked' by Kyiv hospital attack Buildings of children's hospital Okhmatdyt in Kyiv after Russian missile attack on Ukraine on 8 July 2024. Picture courtesy: Wikimedia In a distressing event early this week, admired Okhmatdyt Children's Hospital in Kyiv was subjected to a violent strike, which caused significant global uproar, including a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332846-thailand-is-shocked-by-kyiv-hospital-attack/

In a distressing event early this week, admired Okhmatdyt Children's Hospital in Kyiv was subjected to a violent strike, which caused significant global uproar, including a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.. In a statement released by Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the nation expressed its profound shock and sorrow over the attack which led to the tragic loss of lives and numerous injuries. Thailand's government, in their communique, revealed deep condolences towards the families affected by this tragedy and stressed on the urgent need for the protection of all civilians, emphasizing that hospitals, medical workers, and patients should be safeguarded under international humanitarian law. Worryingly, this is not the first time such an incident has occurred in conflict zones, but the direct hit on a children's healthcare facility has sparked particularly intense international indignation. Reports emerging from the scene indicated that the attack, purportedly by a Russian missile, not only shattered the infrastructure but also resulted in the deaths and injuries of multiple individuals, including children. Among the wreckage was the hospital’s vital dialysis department, critically affecting the care of young patients reliant on life-sustaining treatments. The assault on Okhmatdyt Hospital has pulled into sharp relief the broader human rights implications associated with military conflicts, especially those involving civilian facilities that provide essential services. The international community's response, including that of Thailand, underscores a united stance against breaches of humanitarian law, advocating for the cessation of violence and the promotion of peace. TOP: Buildings of children's hospital Okhmatdyt in Kyiv after Russian missile attack on Ukraine on 8 July 2024. Picture courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-07-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Stainless Steel Benches in Lumpini Park Raise Safety Concerns Picture courtesy: Kapook Lumpini Park, a beloved green oasis in the heart of Bangkok, has recently undergone a makeover that has drawn mixed reactions from the public. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332845-stainless-steel-benches-in-lumpini-park-raise-safety-concerns/

Lumpini Park, a beloved green oasis in the heart of Bangkok, has recently undergone a makeover that has drawn mixed reactions from the public. The park's traditional marble benches, known for their durability and aesthetic appeal, have been resurfaced with stainless steel, a decision that has sparked a heated debate regarding safety and practicality. The renovation was intended to modernize the park facilities and reduce maintenance costs associated with the wear and tear of the old marble benches. However, shortly after the new benches were installed, concerns regarding their safety began to circulate on social media platforms. Users pointed out that the reflective surface of stainless steel could pose a fire hazard by concentrating sunlight, particularly in Thailand's tropical climate. Additionally, the metal benches are uncomfortable to use during very hot or very cold weather, detracting from their usability. Social media users also questioned the choice of material from a cost perspective, with some suggesting that replacing the benches entirely, rather than resurfacing them, might have been a more effective solution. Critics of the renovation voiced their opinions online, with one user humorously remarking, "Who would dare to sit on them? Maybe after 6pm," highlighting the impracticality of using metal benches under the scorching sun. Another commenter raised a safety concern, stating, "Reflecting sunlight could cause a fire. I've seen stainless steel chairs reflect sunlight onto plastic, causing it to burn. Very dangerous." In response to the backlash, park officials are reviewing feedback and considering additional measures to ensure the benches are safe and functional for all visitors. While the intent behind the upgrade was to improve the park's infrastructure, the execution has led to a broader discussion about the suitability of materials used in public spaces and their impact on community safety and comfort. As this debate continues, the future of Lumpini Park's new benches remains uncertain, with potential adjustments on the horizon to address the public's concerns. Picture courtesy: Kapook -- 2024-07-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Udon Thani Residents Offer Reward to Cease Nightly Disturbances Picture courtesy: Khaosod Residents in Ban Dung, Udon Thani are at their wit's end due to nightly disturbances caused by local teenagers ringing doorbells. In response, they are offering a 5,000 baht reward for information leading to the teenagers' capture. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332842-udon-thani-residents-offer-reward-to-cease-nightly-disturbances/

Residents in Ban Dung, Udon Thani are at their wit's end due to nightly disturbances caused by local teenagers ringing doorbells. In response, they are offering a 5,000 baht reward for information leading to the teenagers' capture. Weeraphon Rak Samerwong, administrator of the Ban Dung Update Facebook page, shared that numerous complaints have flooded in from residents in the municipal area of Ban Dung. The disturbances involve three teenagers, two boys and one girl, who have been riding motorcycles around the neighborhood, incessantly ringing doorbells late at night for several consecutive nights. This disruptive behavior has severely disrupted residents' sleep. The incidents primarily occur near the Jindaporn Gold Shop, close to the Ban Dung Police Station. The severity of the disturbances prompted residents to pool resources for the reward, hoping to identify and apprehend the culprits quickly. "We're unable to sleep at all. They come every night, creating the same noise and disturbance. It's unbearable," shared one affected resident. The community's frustration has grown as the teenagers' actions escalated recently. The reward aims to encourage anyone with information to come forward swiftly, allowing residents to reclaim their peace of mind. Local police are aware of the issue and have intensified patrols in the affected areas. However, the teenagers have evaded capture, often speeding away before police arrive. Authorities urge community cooperation, emphasizing the importance of addressing such disturbances promptly to prevent potential escalation into more serious incidents. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-07-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket Old Town Rainbow Crosswalk to Be Removed After Multiple Accidents By Goongnang Suksawat Phuket-The rainbow crosswalk at the Chartered Bank Intersection in Phuket Old Town is set to be erased following several reported road accidents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332841-phuket-old-town-rainbow-crosswalk-to-be-removed-after-multiple-accidents/

Phuket-The rainbow crosswalk at the Chartered Bank Intersection in Phuket Old Town is set to be erased following several reported road accidents. Pedestrians visiting the intersection for photos have been struck by vehicles and motorbike riders have slipped on the rainbow crosswalk in recent days. Fortunately, injuries have been minor. Phuket City Mayor Mr. Saroj Angkanapilas confirmed that the decision to remove the rainbow crosswalk has been made. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-07-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Iranian Tourist Injured in Motorbike Accident Involving British Man By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A British tourist allegedly cut off an Iranian motorcyclist on a Pattaya road, resulting in the latter suffering minor injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332839-iranian-tourist-injured-in-motorbike-accident-involving-british-man/

Pattaya — A British tourist allegedly cut off an Iranian motorcyclist on a Pattaya road, resulting in the latter suffering minor injuries. The accident took place on Thapphraya Road, opposite of Rita Resort Residence on July 12th, 2024. The incident involved a Honda Click125 motorcycle and a red Toyota Yaris sedan. Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan rescuers rushed to the scene to find an Iranian man, whose name was not revealed by rescuers, crying out in pain on the median strip. He was suffering from a laceration on his right elbow, swelling on his right wrist, and abrasions on various parts of his body. His motorbike was found damaged nearby. The red Toyota Yaris involved in the accident had visible damage to its right-side mirror and right door. The driver, a British national, also unidentified, remained at the scene and cooperated with the police. He was unharmed. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Honest Thai Cabbie Returns 500,000 Baht to Saudi Tourist Picture courtesy: FM91 BANGKOK: -- In an incredible display of honesty, 56-year-old Saneh Chaikam from Roi Et province, found himself at the center of a feel-good story this Wednesday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332838-honest-thai-cabbie-returns-500000-baht-to-saudi-tourist/

BANGKOK: -- In an incredible display of honesty, 56-year-old Saneh Chaikam from Roi Et province, found himself at the center of a feel-good story this Wednesday. The taxi driver stumbled upon a black handbag left behind by a passenger earlier this week, which contained a staggering sum of money totalling 566,127 baht. Quickly realizing the urgency of the matter, Chaikam didn't hesitate to contact the FM91 Traffic Police to orchestrate its return. The forgotten handbag included a substantial mix of currencies - 1,885 United Arab Emirates riel alongside 15,094 US dollars, roughly equating to the half-million plus Thai Baht figure when converted. The currency was accompanied by personal items likely belonging to the Saudi owner: a business card, a pen, and a notebook, locked securely within the handbag's twin zip-up compartments. Picture courtesy: FM91 The drama unfolded after the Saudi visitor and his companion, who had boarded Chaikam’s taxi at Ratchadaphisek Road, disembarked hurriedly at Siam Square amidst Bangkok’s notorious traffic snarls. Amid the busy exchange, the pricey bag was left behind. Thanks to Chaikam's prompt action, the FM91 Traffic Police quickly facilitated a meeting at the radio station to return the hefty sum to its rightful owner. Witnessed by several key figures from the radio station and transport authority, the handover ceremony underscored the virtues of honesty and swift communication. The Saudi owner, relieved and grateful, expressed his heartfelt thanks to Chaikam, illustrating a heartwarming cross-cultural exchange of trust and integrity. Picture courtesy: FM91 -- 2024-07-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Immigration police arrest Cypriot national for stalking Thai woman Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In a surprising twist to a case of domestic distress, a Cypriot national was apprehended in Thailand after a meticulous investigation by Thailand's Immigration Bureau. The arrest occurred late in the evening in Bangkok, following intensive police work based on multiple complaints. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332836-immigration-police-arrest-cypriot-national-for-stalking-thai-woman/

In a surprising twist to a case of domestic distress, a Cypriot national was apprehended in Thailand after a meticulous investigation by Thailand's Immigration Bureau. The arrest occurred late in the evening in Bangkok, following intensive police work based on multiple complaints. Authorities first got wind of the suspect, identified only as Mr. Nicholas, aged 36 when allegations surfaced about his repeated unauthorized entry into his ex-girlfriend's property. The distress reports pointed out Nicholas’s pattern of sneaking into condominium buildings, a clear violation of his former partner’s personal space and property rights, reportedn Siam Rath. Picture courtesy:n Siam Rath The Nakhon Pathom Provincial Court was prompt in issuing an arrest warrant after these violations were formally reported. The investigative team led by senior officers from Immigration Bureau 1 staked out a hostel in the Ratchathewi district believed to be Nicholas's temporary residence. As per the operational details, their surveillance paid off when Nicholas returned to the hostel. Upon his arrival, he was promptly detained, and his identity was confirmed against the court-issued warrant. In a further unraveling during his arrest, officials discovered an unauthorized stamp purported to belong to the Cyprus Consulate. This stamp, suspected to be counterfeit, added a layer of complexity to Nicholas’s legal troubles, with potential implications of document forgery now coming into play. Authorities are coordinating with the Cyprus Consulate to ascertain the authenticity of the seized stamp and explore any connected fraudulent activities. Nicholas has since admitted to his intrusive actions, which have severely impacted his ex-girlfriend's sense of security. His custody will see him facing charges for both the stalking-related trespasses at night and possible document forgery. This incident has heightened local authorities’ vigilance on immigration-related offenses, underpinning a broader strategy to curb such violations in the kingdom. TOP Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-07-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Central Fund Holds Only 43 Billion Baht for Digital Wallet Project Picture courtesy: The Government Public Relations Department In a pivotal development, the government has confirmed that 43 billion baht from the Central Fund will be allocated to support the digital wallet project in this fiscal year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332834-central-fund-holds-only-43-billion-baht-for-digital-wallet-project/

In a pivotal development, the government has confirmed that 43 billion baht from the Central Fund will be allocated to support the digital wallet project in this fiscal year. This funding decision comes as part of the Pheu Thai-led government's broader strategy to implement the digital aid program aimed at bolstering economic activities by providing direct support to citizens through digital transactions. The Prime Minister’s Office Minister, Jakapong Sangmanee highlighted the specifics of the funding during a session with journalists. This allocation, which represents approximately 40% of the total Central Fund designated for the current fiscal year, stands significantly lower than the rumored 100 billion baht figure. The total project cost is set at 450 billion baht, with a reduction from the initially projected 500 billion baht following analyses suggesting fewer citizens may participate than anticipated. This fund's utilization is legally sanctioned, following consultations with the Council of State, affirming the government's commitment to transparency and lawful financial management. It is designed to cut across several fiscal periods, with an additional 285 billion baht earmarked for the coming year, complemented by a directed government budget of 165 billion baht for the ongoing fiscal cycle. The reallocation from the Central Fund also coincides with the government’s policy shift away from additional external borrowing which was initially estimated at 172.3 billion baht. This strategic financial pivot is set to partially finance the populist digital wallet initiative without the burden of new loans. As public anticipation builds, the Pheu Thai-attached Prime Minister is slated to reveal more details about the project on July 24. The government's management of this large-scale financial commitment continues to stir discussions, with opposition figures cautioning against potential risks to the nation's financial stability. With this significant financial move, the government hopes to not only enhance individual financial agility but also stimulate economic growth by infusing capital through digital channels directly into the economy. The remaining funds in the Central Fund will be reserved for emergency measures, ensuring a fiscal balance that can address unexpected challenges such as natural disasters. TOP Picture courtesy: The Government Public Relations Department -- 2024-07-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreigner and Thai woman get into heated argument on BTS (video) by Petch Petpailin Siam BTS Station in the rush hour | Photo via X/ @js100radio A video went viral of a foreign man and a Thai woman arguing on the BTS Skytrain in Bangkok after the foreigner almost missed the train because the crowd at the door were reluctant to make space and move inside the carriage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332833-foreigner-and-thai-woman-get-into-heated-argument-on-bts-video/

A video went viral of a foreign man and a Thai woman arguing on the BTS Skytrain in Bangkok after the foreigner almost missed the train because the crowd at the door were reluctant to make space and move inside the carriage. A Thai woman, Jah, shared the video of the argument on social media and later sent it to news agencies. In an interview with ThaiRath, Jah revealed that she boarded the train at Siam BTS Station with the two people in the video. The foreign man in the black shirt almost missed the train because some passengers would not step aside, remaining at the door and blocking others from entering. The foreign man managed to get on the train and walked inside, muttering complaints. According to Jah, the foreign man bumped into the woman in a pink shirt and did not apologise. He asked her to move but his request sounded rude to the woman, sparking the argument. The following exchange was heard: Foreign man: “Shut the f*ck up! Recording me? I just told you to move onto the f*cking train.” Thai woman: “Why do you have to use rude words?” Foreign man: “Shut up! You don’t understand English. It wasn’t rude. I just said get the f*ck out of the way.” Thai woman: “That’s a rude word.” Foreign man: “That’s not rude, you don’t understand English!” Another foreign woman on the train attempted to calm the man down. She was heard intervening, saying, “Excuse me, you are being rude. So, just calm down.” Foreigner criticised for English insult The foreign man, who spoke in an American accent but had the look of a Chinese man, responded by saying that the rude people were those who did not let others onto the train. The foreign woman tried to explain that the train was full but the man continued to point out that the space in front of him was enough for six people. The foreign man and the Thai woman continued to yell at each other before the video ended. Jah voiced her opinion during the interview with Thai Rath, stating that she understood both sides of the argument from the foreign man and the Thai woman. The foreigner wanted to get home as fast as possible just like the other passengers on the train, so people should move inside to allow others to board. She also understood the Thai woman, as anyone would be angry if someone bumped into them or swore at them without an apology. Many Thai netizens pointed out that the foreigner should not insult Thai people about their English language skills if he cannot speak Thai, even though he is in Thailand. Some argued that they have also witnessed foreigners standing at the train door. Others agreed with the foreign man that many Thai passengers ignore others and always stand at the door for their convenience when getting off. by Petch Petpailin Siam BTS Station in the rush hour | Photo via X/ @js100radio Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Electricity price for September-December to rise The Energy Regulatory Commission may have to increase the price of electricity for the September-December period to between 4.65 baht/unit and 6.01 baht/unit, from the current rate of 4.18 baht/unit, said Poonpat Leesombatpiboon, secretary-general of the Office of Energy Regulatory Commission (OERC). He said that the OERC will, however, hold public hearings via its website, to gauge opinions about the price rise, from Friday through July 26. There are three price options proposed by the OERC. 6.01 baht/unit (up 44%), 4.92 baht/unit (up 18%) and 4.65 baht/unit (up 11%). Poonpat said that the baht currency has weaken against the Greenback, to 36.63 baht per dollar (down by 1.29 baht per dollar) for the period from May to August. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-07-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

99-Year Land Lease To Foreigners Will Harm Thailand: Jatuporn Jatuporn Prompan. File photo courtesy: Naewna Former Thai Member of Parliament and Red Shirt leader Jatuporn Prompan has vehemently opposed the proposed plans to allow foreigners 99-year leases on land and the introduction of a digital wallet scheme, arguing that both could have detrimental long-term effects on the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332832-99-year-land-lease-to-foreigners-will-harm-thailand-jatuporn/