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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. This plea has reawakened debates over the integrity of the country's political institutions and the role of senators, with potentially far-reaching consequences. Nataporn has petitioned the Constitutional Court to find the Election Commission guilty of negligence and misconduct, suggesting that nearly 70% of the elected senators—about 138 out of 200—benefited from electoral rigging. The former adviser is requesting the court to declare these races null and void, thereby questioning the legitimacy of the incumbents' legislative duties. The ongoing investigation by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) into these allegations adds weight to Nataporn's demands. Further compounding the situation, most accused senators have filed accusations of power abuse against Justice Minister Thavi Sodsong and DSI Director-General Yutthana Praedum. The latter has been instrumental in leading the probe into these electoral discrepancies. Beyond individual accountability, Nataporn points to potential institutional ramifications. He suggests that a political party—widely perceived to be the Bhumjaithai Party, the second-largest coalition partner, unofficially led by Newin Chidchob—could face severe legal repercussions. If found guilty of orchestrating this alleged electoral fraud, the party might face dissolution by the court's order. The dream outcome for Nataporn and his supporters would be sweeping reform, which could fundamentally reshape Thai democracy. The implicated senators have reportedly acted in alignment with Bhumjaithai's agenda since their election, leveraging potential illegal activities to influence significant legislative decisions. The current currency conversion applies an exchange rate of approximately 37 Thai Baht (THB) to 1 US dollar. With the stakes so high for all involved parties, the political landscape could see dramatic shifts, echoing across discussions in Parliament, beyond borders, and into international dialogues about electoral integrity and governance. As the Constitutional Court considers the petitions, Thailand watches eagerly, anticipating potential reforms that could redefine political decorum. Whether motivated by integrity or driven by hidden agendas, the unfolding drama might just set a new precedent for political accountability, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-03-13

Thai Police Nab Gang Smuggling Chinese Nationals into Country Picture courtesy of Siam Rath On 12th June, Thai Highway Police, under the direction of Pol Maj Gen Kongkrit Lertsithikun, apprehended a gang involved in smuggling Chinese nationals illegally into Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354426-thai-police-nab-gang-smuggling-chinese-nationals-into-country/

Adam Pickles: UK Murder Inquiry Linked to 2012 Pattaya Assault Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In a poignant development, British authorities have reignited investigations into the chilling assault of a Briton, Adam Pickles, in Pattaya, Thailand, over a decade ago. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354419-adam-pickles-uk-murder-inquiry-linked-to-2012-pattaya-assault/

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. On 13th March, the 'Issor Breaking News' page shared a post with photos illustrating the potential dangers of sharp skewers in children's meals. The post cautioned parents to be vigilant, especially when children eat foods with skewers, like grilled pork sticks. The incident occurred when a young child was eating skewered pork while on a motorcycle; a sudden brake caused the skewer to pierce their face. Fortunately, the injury missed any critical areas. The post serves as a crucial reminder to break off the sharp points of skewers to prevent severe accidents. The page urges everyone to exercise these simple safety measures to protect children from harm, reported Daiy News. -- 2025-03-13

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In a poignant development, British authorities have reignited investigations into the chilling assault of a Briton, Adam Pickles, in Pattaya, Thailand, over a decade ago. Pickles, known for his role as the head of English at Regents International School in Pattaya, suffered catastrophic brain injuries from a brutal attack in May 2012, which ultimately led to his passing in West Yorkshire in January 2021. The shocking incident unfolded when Pickles was attacked with an iron bar, allegedly over a road rage dispute. The assault left him requiring constant care until his death, having been repatriated to the UK following a fundraising campaign. Although Sean Tinsley, a Wolverhampton native, was sentenced in 2015 to six years for the assault—downgraded from attempted murder after an appeal—the identity of those behind the attack still raises questions. West Yorkshire Police are now making a renewed appeal for information, hoping to uncover new leads in this complex case. Their plea for assistance was made on the BBC's Crimewatch Live series, triggering interest and reopening the dialogue among those who may have valuable insights about the incident. Detective Chief Inspector Damian Roebuck, leading the investigation, emphasised the importance of contacts in Thailand who might hold crucial information. "We believe that someone out there may have been confided in or heard something pertinent to the case," Roebuck stated, urging those with any piece of information, no matter how insignificant it might seem, to come forward. He added, "Adam’s devastating injuries transpired into a life sentence for both him and his family. We owe it to them to ensure justice is served." The police have opened additional channels, allowing individuals to share information via their official helpline or through anonymous submissions to the charity Crimestoppers. The episode of Crimewatch Live featuring this case is available on BBC iPlayer, giving further reach to the appeal. With the stakes high, the tenacity of law enforcement, combined with public co-operation, holds the potential to finally close this chapter for Pickles' family, who remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice, reported Bangkok Post. A 2017 video appeals for support for teacher Adam Pickles, who was seriously injured. -- 2025-03-13

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath On 12th June, Thai Highway Police, under the direction of Pol Maj Gen Kongkrit Lertsithikun, apprehended a gang involved in smuggling Chinese nationals illegally into Thailand. The operation, led by Pol Col Thach Phosuwan and his team, ended with the arrest of 31-year-old Jittikorn, who faces charges for facilitating illegal entry and providing housing to undocumented immigrants. Alongside him, five Chinese individuals were detained for entering the country without proper authorisation. The arrests took place on Asia Highway, inbound towards Bangkok, near Bang Pa-in, Ayutthaya. Suspicion arose when officers patrolling the highway noticed two pickup trucks behaving unusually. Upon stopping the vehicles for inspection, seven Chinese nationals were discovered hidden inside. Checks revealed that five of them had no legal entry permits, while only two had entered Thailand lawfully. During questioning, Jittikorn admitted to being hired by an acquaintance to transport the individuals from Tak province to Bangkok for a fee of 6,500 baht, fully aware of their illegal status. The Chinese nationals confessed, through an interpreter, to entering Thailand via natural border routes near Mae Sot, Tak, aimed at securing employment in Bangkok. All suspects have been handed over to immigration authorities for further legal processing, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-03-13

Foreign Gambling Ring Busted in Luxury Bangkok Condo Picture courtesy of Daiky News Thai authorities have dismantled an international gambling ring operating from a rented luxury condo in Bangkok, revealing a web of illegal online gambling with significant financial turnover. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354447-foreign-gambling-ring-busted-in-luxury-bangkok-condo/

Picture courtesy of Daily News Thai authorities have dismantled an international gambling ring operating from a rented luxury condo in Bangkok, revealing a web of illegal online gambling with significant financial turnover. In a coordinated operation, officers from Immigration Division 1, Sutthisan Police Station, and the Tourist Police Investigative Division raided a luxury condo in the Ladprao area of Bangkok. Acting on a tip-off, the authorities discovered foreign nationals—one from China and three from Vietnam—who were reportedly running an illicit online gambling site. The investigation found evidence of extensive financial activity, with millions of baht believed to be circulating through this operation monthly. The arrested individuals admitted to managing the gambling site for a monthly fee of approximately 50,000 baht. Among the seized items were eight laptops, seven mobile phones, and three hardware wallets. This crackdown aligns with the Thai government’s directive for stringent action against foreign entities using the country as a base for illegal online gambling. Officers have been instructed to identify and apprehend offenders, especially foreigners misusing their visas for criminal activities in Thailand. Major General Parasat Khemmasit, head of Immigration Division 1, stressed that foreign nationals tend to rent condos or apartments collectively and maintain a low profile to avoid detection. Residents and property owners are urged to report suspicious activities to the immigration office or via hotline 1178, to help curb the misuse of Thai territories for such illegal operations, reported Daily News. -- 2025-03-13

UPDATE: British Tourist Faces 10-Year Sentence for Cannabis Smuggling in Krabi Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail Daniel James Hallett, a 38-year-old British tourist from Hull, is potentially facing a decade-long prison sentence in Thailand after allegedly attempting to smuggle 38 kilos of cannabis at Krabi Airport. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354084-13kg-of-cannabis-found-in-krabi-airport-bathroom-suitcase/#findComment-19653676

Nigerian Dealer Busted in Phuket After Viral Drug Video Leads to Arrest - video Photo via Facebook/ เหยี่ยวข่าว ภูเก็ต Newshawk Phuket A Nigerian man was arrested in Phuket after a viral video exposed a drug transaction involving cocaine. The video, shared by the Facebook page "Phuket is so brutal", captured two foreigners using the illegal substance by the roadside, sparking public outrage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354387-nigerian-dealer-busted-in-phuket-after-viral-drug-video-leads-to-arrest-video/

Nigerian Men Arrested for Drifting: Sang to Police to Evade Arrest - video Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ In an unusual turn of events, two Nigerian men were arrested in Phuket last night after being caught drifting a sedan in the middle of a busy intersection. The incident, which occurred at the Koh Kaew Intersection on Thep Krasattri Road, was widely shared online, drawing attention to the brazen behaviour of the suspects. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354386-nigerian-men-arrested-for-drifting-sang-to-police-to-evade-arrest-video/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 13 March 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1354385-thailand-live-thursday-13-march-2025/

Phuket Hit-and-Run: Police Hunt Knife-Wielding Foreigners Image screenshot from video Authorities in Phuket are on the hunt for three foreign individuals involved in a hit-and-run incident that occurred outside Patong Hospital three days ago. The culprits allegedly collided with a Thai motorcyclist using a pickup truck and subsequently threatened him with a knife when confronted. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354384-phuket-hit-and-run-police-hunt-knife-wielding-foreigners/

Super Pussy Prank Steals Show at Thai Football Event In a playful twist at the Icons of Football tournament in Thailand, a cheeky prank involving former Premier League footballers has become the talk of the town, blending the excitement of sport with an unexpected touch of humor. The event, hosted in Bangkok, saw legendary players from Team England and Team World gather for a Ryder Cup-style golf competition, but it was a gleeful stunt that stole the show. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354360-super-pussy-prank-steals-show-at-thai-football-event/

In a playful twist at the Icons of Football tournament in Thailand, a cheeky prank involving former Premier League footballers has become the talk of the town, blending the excitement of sport with an unexpected touch of humour. The event, hosted in Bangkok, saw legendary players from Team England and Team World gather for a Ryder Cup-style golf competition, but it was a gleeful stunt that stole the show. The mastermind behind this amusing escapade, known on Instagram as "farangsgonewild," hatched his plan by first attending the quirky Super Pussy ping-pong show in Patpong, Bangkok. There, he acquired a peculiar souvenir: a humorous sketch of a Thai elephant, which he intended to playfully weave into the day's events. Armed with the sketch, the prankster made his way to Robinswood Golf Club, where the football luminaries, including icons like John Terry, Robbie Fowler, and Paul Scholes, were preparing for their golf match. Craftily, farangsgonewild approached these sporting heroes, requesting their autographs on the unusual artwork, which they obliged, unknowingly adding to the lively gag. The resulting viral video reveals the unsuspecting players signing the comically sourced sketch, contributing to a flurry of laughter and enjoyment that lit up social media. This delightful prank added an engaging and light-hearted dimension to the day’s festivities. Meanwhile, amid the jovial antics, the golf tournament unfolded with Team England clinching victory over Team World with a score of 72-33. England's captain, Lee Westwood, commended his team’s skill and the seamless transition from pitch to green, celebrating a well-deserved triumph. Picture signed by the Icons of Football stars courtesy of farangsgonewild In reflection, Team World captain Sergio Garcia expressed pride in his team despite the defeat, acknowledging the fierce competition from both sides. "The English team played great golf, but my guys did too, and I'm super proud of them," Garcia noted, appreciating England's superior performance on this occasion. In blending humour with sport, the Icons of Football event in Thailand showcased a remarkable coming together of old footballing rivals, united not just by their love of the game but by a shared sense of camaraderie and humour. This unforgettable blend of action and amusement ensures the tournament will be remembered for both the prowess on the course and the unprecedented pranks off it, reportedn THe Thaiger. -- 2025-03-12

German Man Arrested in Maha Sarakham for Drugs and 377-Day Overstay Pictures courtesy of Siam Rath In Maha Sarakham, immigration police have arrested a 53-year-old German national, known as Mr Thomas, for drug possession and overstaying his visa by 377 days. The arrest took place at a resort in the Khwao area of Mueang Maha Sarakham district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354348-german-man-arrested-in-maha-sarakham-for-drugs-and-377-day-overstay/

Pictures courtesy of Siam Rath In Maha Sarakham, immigration police have arrested a 53-year-old German national, known as Mr Thomas, for drug possession and overstaying his visa by 377 days. The arrest took place at a resort in the Khwao area of Mueang Maha Sarakham district. The incident unfolded after the local authorities received a tip-off from the resort owner about a foreign guest behaving suspiciously in Room 2. When officers arrived, Mr Thomas appeared startled and attempted to tamper with the door lock, prompting a search. This led to the discovery of methamphetamine hidden in a plastic wrap behind the lock. Mr Thomas, a 53-year-old German national, had entered Thailand via Suvarnabhumi Airport on 29 December 2023. He was initially granted a tourist visa valid until 27 January 2024, and even after extending his stay, his visa expired on 26 February 2024. While the officers were checking his documents, Mr Thomas became agitated and informed them that he needed to shower and change clothes. As he moved towards the door, he suspiciously fiddled with the lock, prompting the officers to investigate further. They discovered methamphetamine concealed in clear plastic wrap with black tape, which they seized. During questioning, Mr Thomas admitted to using the drugs daily but insisted they belonged to a friend. He is now facing charges of illegal possession and use of methamphetamine, as well as visa overstay. Mr Thomas is currently in custody awaiting further legal proceedings, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-03-12

From Cop to Convict: The Rise and Fall of 'Joe Ferrari' Picture courtesy of Thai PBS The intriguing yet tragic story of Thitisan "Joe Ferrari" Utthanaphon took a grim turn as the ex-police officer was discovered dead in Bangkok's Klong Prem prison last Friday. Authorities have labelled his death a suicide, but suspicions linger as his family clamours for a deeper investigation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354334-from-cop-to-convict-the-rise-and-fall-of-joe-ferrari/

Thailand Delays Entertainment Complex Bill Amid Public Concerns Picture courtesy of Thai PBS Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced today that the proposed entertainment complex bill is not ready for Cabinet discussion. She emphasised the need for thorough consultation with various stakeholders before proceeding with the project, highlighting its novelty in Thailand and the importance of avoiding hasty decisions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354333-thailand-delays-entertainment-complex-bill-amid-public-concerns/

Pictures courtesy of Thai Rath On 11th March, the mystery surrounding the death of former Police Colonel Thitisan Utthanaphon, also known as Joe Ferrari, was further explored through a media tour of his prison cell. Chief Joe, a detainee at Khlong Prem Central Prison, was found dead with a towel around his neck in cell number 50 of the 5th prison block on the night of 7th March. Officials from the Department of Corrections maintain there was no foul play involved, attributing his death to self-inflicted asphyxiation. However, his family has requested a secondary autopsy at Chulalongkorn Hospital to investigate further. The Department of Corrections allowed reporters access to cell number 50, where they could observe the conditions and items left untouched since Chief Joe's death. The cell contained personal belongings, including two blankets, a pair of shoes, and toiletries. Reporters were only permitted to view the interior from the doorway, noting the location where the incident occurred near the metal door frame. Adjacent to this was cell number 51, previously housing an LGBTQ inmate involved in a drug case, who had been relocated prior to the media visit. Inside, the room was equipped with a toilet and a ventilation fan and contained three towels. Police Lieutenant Colonel Chan Kanjanapat, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Corrections, clarified that the three towels served various purposes: as a sleeping mat, a pillow, and a blanket, with one additional towel allowed for bathing. He explained that this media access aimed to dispel speculation about the solitary confinement conditions. Chief Joe had been moved to the 5th block at his request following an incident involving a guard's camera at the 7th block, which led to his transfer, reported Thai Rath. -- 2025-03-12

Picture courtesy of Thai PBS The intriguing yet tragic story of Thitisan "Joe Ferrari" Utthanaphon took a grim turn as the ex-police officer was discovered dead in Bangkok's Klong Prem prison last Friday. Authorities have labelled his death a suicide, but suspicions linger as his family clamours for a deeper investigation. Thitisan, once a shining star in Thai law enforcement, rose rapidly through the ranks to become a colonel by the age of 41. His career success was mirrored by an extravagant lifestyle, punctuated by a collection of supercars, earning him the nickname "Joe Ferrari". This opulence, however, came into question with suspicions of corruption that led to asset seizures. In 2021, his fall from grace was cemented following his conviction and life sentence for torturing a suspect to death. Spending his days incarcerated, Thitisan resurfaced in headlines owing to reports of unrest within the prison walls. His family asserts that his remaining time was marred by abuse from both inmates and guards. A conflict with a fellow prisoner allegedly led to his singling out for mistreatment, culminating in a violent incident with a senior prison official. On January 8th, Thitisan filed a complaint alleging he had been attacked and threatened, substantiated by medical reports of his injuries. Yet, despite multiple police inquiries, little progress was made in addressing these serious allegations. His health reportedly declined, prompting his mother to urgently seek intervention. But, tragically, the attempt was too late. On the night of his death, prison officials claim Thitisan took his life using a towel, a finding contested by his grieving family who have called for a second autopsy. Meanwhile, social media responded with mixed sentiments. Some view his demise as karmic justice for the brutal actions that led to his conviction – suffocating a drug suspect with a plastic bag in a misguided interrogation effort. Yet others contend that his prison ordeal necessitated a fuller investigation, arguing that human rights should protect even the incarcerated. Raised in Bangkok and educated at the Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School, Thitisan's ascent through the police ranks was swift and rewarded with substantial bonuses for busting criminal enterprises and seizing illegal assets. Parallel to his professional exploits, his personal life drew public interest due to his high-profile relationships, notably with women from the entertainment sector. Once entangled with opulence and influence, Thitisan's demise highlights the complex interplay of justice, power, and redemption. His family, refusing to cremate the body, underscores the unresolved nature of his story, leaving a community divided yet reflective on the broader implications of his dramatic life and death, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-03-12

Picture courtesy of Thai PBS In a recent turn of events that's captured nationwide attention, a photo of People's Party MP Chorayuth Chaturapornprasit allegedly holding an e-cigarette within the hallowed halls of Thailand's Parliament has gone viral. The image, quickly disseminated through social media, has ignited a robust public outcry, prompting calls for an official inquiry into the incident. The photograph appeared on a well-known Facebook page, sparking a wave of shares, likes, and comments as it quickly spread across the platform. Many of the public reactions have been critical, highlighting the legislative member's controversial behaviour in contravention of Thailand’s strict no-smoking policies within government premises. More compelling is the fact that possession of e-cigarettes in Thailand is illegal in itself, an infraction which could result in imprisonment, fines, or both, with penalties reaching up to 500,000 Thai Baht. As the image gained traction online, critics pointed out that MPs, as public figures and lawmakers, are expected to exemplify legal and ethical conduct. The incident has placed significant pressure on the People's Party to respond. In an official statement, Pakornwut Udompipatskul, Deputy Leader of the People's Party, addressed the controversy by acknowledging the need for an internal investigation to establish the facts behind the photo. He emphasised the party's commitment to transparency and responsibility but also noted that such behaviours aren't confined to a single party. "This has happened in other parties as well. The focus is on the People's Party only because a photograph exists," he remarked. While acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Pakornwut highlighted the importance of handling the issue with measured diligence, asserting that no discussion with Chorayuth had occurred at the time of the statement. This unfolding situation serves as a reminder of the intricate balance public figures must maintain between personal actions and their professional responsibilities. As citizens continue to voice their concerns over social media, it presses the issue of accountability and draws attention to the broader discourse on vaping regulations and political decorum in Thailand. The incident remains under the scrutiny of both the public and internal party mechanisms. As the investigation proceeds, the focus on lawmakers’ adherence to legal stipulations and public expectations remains a key theme in the discourse surrounding this event, reported Thai PBS -- 2025-03-12

Picture courtesy of Thai PBS Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced today that the proposed entertainment complex bill is not ready for Cabinet discussion. She emphasised the need for thorough consultation with various stakeholders before proceeding with the project, highlighting its novelty in Thailand and the importance of avoiding hasty decisions. The government's cautious approach comes in the wake of ongoing protests near Government House. Anti-casino groups have voiced strong opposition to the bill, threatening to intensify their actions if the Cabinet were to approve it prematurely. Acknowledging these concerns, the Prime Minister assured that the government will consider all perspectives, aiming for a balanced judgement. Simultaneously, Deputy Agriculture Minister Dech-it Khaothong addressed rumours circulating about former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's involvement in the casino debate. Recent speculations suggested Thaksin was in Hat Yai to advocate for the project. However, Dech-it clarified that Thaksin's visit was purely social, aimed at reconnecting with local communities and Malaysian tourists, as he hasn't been to the region in a significant time. Thaksin's agenda primarily focused on discussing critical infrastructure issues such as flood prevention across the Songkhla, Phatthalung, and Nakhon Si Thammarat provinces, along with plans for the development of Songkhla Lake. This clarification helps dispel misconceptions regarding the former Prime Minister's stance on the proposed casino. When it comes to the potential establishment of a casino in Hat Yai, Dech-it asserted that the decision should rest with the residents of Songkhla province. This position respects local autonomy and ensures that those most affected by such decisions have a direct say in their outcomes. As the government navigates this contentious issue, the unfolding debate highlights the complexities involved in introducing new entertainment ventures, particularly in regions where tourism and community interests must balance. The outcome could set a significant precedent for how Thailand approaches similar initiatives in the future. Such a project could have substantial economic implications, potentially enriching the local economy through increased tourism. However, it also poses challenges, including socio-cultural impacts and shifts in local dynamics. As the discussion advances, stakeholders will likely continue scrutinising the balance between economic growth, social responsibility, and community consent. The Cabinet's eventual decision will undoubtedly be pivotal in charting the nation's course on integrating such projects into its landscape, influencing both policy direction and the socio-economic fabric of the regions involved, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-03-12

Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira. File photo In a strategic move to rejuvenate its struggling stock market, Thailand has rolled out tax incentives specifically designed to attract local investors. This initiative, announced by Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, is a direct response to the market's lacklustre performance this year, driven by substantial foreign capital outflows. At the heart of this initiative is a new scheme dubbed 'ESG X', slated for launch by June. Investors partaking in these funds can avail themselves of a tax allowance up to 300,000 Thai Baht. These ESG X funds have a particular focus: investing in local companies that excel in the environmental, social, and governance sectors. This financial nudge comes at a significant potential cost to the Thai government, with an expected tax revenue loss of approximately 50 billion Baht, as noted by Pornchai Thiraveja, who leads the Fiscal Policy Office. The incentive rollout coincides with a moderate rebound of the SET Index, which saw a 0.9% rise on Tuesday, closing at 1,187.63 points. This increase comes as a relief amidst an overall 15% decline for the year. A combination of sluggish economic growth and disappointing corporate earnings has weighed heavily on market sentiment. Foreign investors remain cautious, reflected in their withdrawal of 25.7 billion Baht from Thai stocks in 2025 alone. The global tariff war exacerbates market volatility, particularly affecting nations like Thailand, which maintains a trade surplus with the US. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra underscores the necessity of stronger collaboration among economic policymakers to sustain national growth. An added aspect of the tax incentives targets investors holding long-term equity funds nearing maturity, valued around 180 billion Baht. To curb potential negative impacts from redemptions, these investors will be offered a tax break up to 500,000 Baht should they switch to ESG X funds. However, they must commit to a five-year investment period within the new fund. This new strategy builds on last year's tax break enhancements and reduced lock-in periods to encourage ESG fund investments. Additionally, the government is evaluating a new legislative decree focusing on irregularities in stock trading and corporate activities. Swift enforcement of such regulations is crucial, says Mr. Pichai, in restoring investor confidence within Thailand's financial markets. Overall, these proactive measures reflect Thailand's commitment to stabilising its financial landscape while fostering sustainable investment practices, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-12

File photo courtesy of Thairath The political landscape in Thailand is heating up as the opposition remains resolute about including references to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in their censure motion against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. This unfolds even as House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha recommended expunging such references to facilitate the imminent debate scheduled for later this month. Opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut confirmed the decision yesterday, signalling potential stalemate risks in this high-stakes parliamentary showdown. The upcoming debate might hang in balance as Mr Wan criticised the motion framed against Thaksin, who, unable to attend, would not be present to defend himself. Moreover, the House Speaker expressed concerns that including Thaksin could expose him to defamation lawsuits. Despite these warnings, the opposition maintains its position, viewing Thaksin's involvement in his daughter's administration as a vital point to address during the censure discourse. Mr Natthaphong indicated plans to formally express discontent with Mr Wan's suggestion shortly, emphasising the urgency and significance of the issue. Should the House Speaker refuse to entertain the debate with the motion intact, the opposition hinted at undisclosed measures, though Mr Natthaphong assured there's room for negotiation to resolve the impasse before the parliamentary session wraps up. In the midst of this political tug-of-war, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai reminded that ultimate authority over the motion rests with Mr Wan. He suggested that continued dialogue between government and opposition whips could bridge differences, adhering to parliamentary meeting regulation No.176, which discourages unnecessary third-party mentions in censure motions. For context, this isn’t a novel predicament for the Thai parliament. Notably, Pheu Thai MP Wisut Chainarun, also the chief government whip, mentioned that the debate's scheduling hinges on Mr Wan's decision to table the motion first. Adding to the historical narrative, opposition MP Rangsiman Rome remarked that Mr Wan himself initiated a similar motion in 2019 when he was in opposition. The stakes are high, and as the clock ticks towards the censure debate deadline, all eyes are on how the tug-of-war over procedural nuances and political narratives will unfold in the House, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-12