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People's Party Plans Bold Legal Move Against Prime Minister AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit On Monday, the People's Party, spearheaded by list-MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, declared its intent to pursue legal action against Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358409-peoples-party-plans-bold-legal-move-against-prime-minister/

Thailand Eyes European Tourists Amid Asian Visitor Decline Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand is grappling with a significant decline in tourist numbers, pushing the Tourism and Sports Ministry to task the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) with revamping its 2025 strategy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358407-thailand-eyes-european-tourists-amid-asian-visitor-decline/

Australian Man Arrested After Loaded Gun Found During Patong Patrol Picture courtesy Parong Police, Phuket In a dramatic turn of events, police apprehended an Australian man early this morning (Apr 21) on Phuket's buzzing Bangla Rd, Patong, for carrying a loaded and illegal firearm. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358406-australian-man-arrested-after-loaded-gun-found-during-patong-patrol/

Delay in Thai-US Tariff Talks: Minister's Trip Cancelled File photo courtesy THai PBS World The much-anticipated Thai-US trade negotiations, set to confront the hefty 36% tariff imposed by former US President Donald Trump on Thailand, face an unexpected delay. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358404-delay-in-thai-us-tariff-talks-ministers-trip-cancelled/

Thailand Declines US Loan Deal for F-16 Jets Over Tough Terms Thailand has officially stepped back from purchasing F-16 fighter jets from the US due to challenging loan conditions. Picture courtesy of Lockheed Martin Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai disclosed today that the US demanded an upfront loan from a US bank for the entire fleet's cost, which Thailand finds financially unfeasible. The minister emphasized the nation's focus on addressing other pressing financial needs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358402-thailand-declines-us-loan-deal-for-f-16-jets-over-tough-terms/

Russian Teacher to Thais: Drop ‘Farang’ if 'Ni Hao' Offends Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A Russian language teacher in Thailand has sparked debate with his call for Thais to reconsider using the word “farang” for foreigners if they find “Ni Hao” racist. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358400-russian-teacher-to-thais-drop-‘farang’-if-ni-hao-offends/

Thailand Braces for Blowback From US-China Trade War File photo Thailand's trade and export sectors are on high alert as the US-China trade war escalates, with potential repercussions set to ripple through the country's economy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358426-thailand-braces-for-blowback-from-us-china-trade-war/

File photo Thailand's trade and export sectors are on high alert as the US-China trade war escalates, with potential repercussions set to ripple through the country's economy. Economists warn that global trade uncertainties, fuelled by the rift between the two powerhouse nations, could challenge Thailand's economic stability. Nattawat Onratn from CGS-CIMB Securities hints that the trade war might drag on, keeping Thailand in a state of flux. Nattawat raises concerns over the unpredictable nature of US President Donald Trump's trade policies, noting that negotiation efforts by several countries, including Japan, have yet to yield fruitful results. As uncertainty prevails, Thai investors are urged to maintain liquidity, despite possible short-lived recoveries in the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET). Allianz SE projects that Thailand's GDP growth might inch down to 2.2% this year, with potential declines continuing into 2026, all under the shadow of Trump's tariff strategies. Ludovic Subran of Allianz highlights that Thailand could feel the squeeze of increased global trade costs, especially in automotive, manufacturing, and electronics sectors, despite not being directly targeted by US tariffs. The strain on export sectors might push Thailand's central bank towards monetary easing while domestic policies and diversification efforts try to buffer the adverse effects. As businesses delay projects and curb investments amid Washington-Beijing tensions, global GDP is projected to fall to its lowest level since the pandemic by 2025, with sluggish consumer spending and inflation adding to the woes. While Asia-Pacific could display resilience with an expected growth of 3.9% in 2025, Thailand might face budgetary pressures. BofA Global Research suggests the Thai government might need to consider additional fiscal measures to aid the economy, possibly necessitating new legislation to enable increased borrowing, as noted by economist Pipat Luengnaruemitchai. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-22

Yingluck Advocates Removing Bhumjaithai from Coalition Picture courtesy of Siam Rath On 21st April 2568, political insiders revealed ongoing tensions within Thailand's ruling coalition, with former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra allegedly pushing to oust the Bhumjaithai Party from the government. This development follows persistent conflicts between Bhumjaithai and the leading Phuea Thai Party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358422-yingluck-advocates-removing-bhumjaithai-from-coalition/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath On 21st April 2568, political insiders revealed ongoing tensions within Thailand's ruling coalition, with former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra allegedly pushing to oust the Bhumjaithai Party from the government. This development follows persistent conflicts between Bhumjaithai and the leading Phuea Thai Party. Following the Songkran festival, a meeting on 18th April reportedly saw discussions within Phuea Thai ranks about reshuffling the cabinet and reallocating certain economic ministry positions. Against this backdrop, Yingluck is said to have participated via phone, expressing concerns about cooperation issues with Bhumjaithai. The rift has led to speculation that Phuea Thai might replace Bhumjaithai with the Palang Pracharath Party, which currently holds 20 parliamentary seats. The proposal underscores the ongoing volatility within Thailand's political landscape as coalition dynamics shift. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siam Rath -- 2025-04-22

Controversial Photos of Senior Monk Spark Outcry in Nakhon Si Thammarat Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A scandal has erupted in Nakhon Si Thammarat’s Ron Phibun district after photos surfaced allegedly showing a senior monk in a compromising position with a woman. The images appear to capture the monk, a subdistrict chief and senior ecclesiastical figure, naked in a bathroom with a woman bathing him, prompting demands from the local community for accountability. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358367-controversial-photos-of-senior-monk-spark-outcry-in-nakhon-si-thammarat/

Thailand Bans Corporal Punishment in Landmark Child Rights Move File photo for reference only Thailand has taken a pivotal step towards safeguarding children's rights by amending its Civil and Commercial Code to ban all forms of corporal punishment. This legal reform, published in the Royal Gazette on March 24, has been lauded by child rights advocates as a crucial shift towards changing societal attitudes on parenting. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358356-thailand-bans-corporal-punishment-in-landmark-child-rights-move/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 22 April 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1358354-thailand-live-tuesday-22-april-2025/

Swiss Man Faces Arrest in Phuket Over Alleged Assault on Thai Doctor Photo: Thai News Room An arrest warrant has been issued for Urs Fehr, a 46-year-old Swiss national, following his failure to attend a scheduled court hearing in Phuket. The hearing concerns an alleged assault case involving Dr. Thandao Chandam, who claims Fehr kicked her in February of last year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358350-swiss-man-faces-arrest-in-phuket-over-alleged-assault-on-thai-doctor/

Civil Servant's Tragic Act Sparks Loan Shark Debate Pcture courtesy of Naewna In a heart-wrenching scene outside the Mae Sariang district office, a 58-year-old community developer, identified only as Ms. Kanya, set herself ablaze in a desperate plea against crippling loan shark debts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358272-civil-servants-tragic-act-sparks-loan-shark-debate/

Pheu Thai’s Casino Bill Stalls Amid Fierce Opposition and Coalition Tensions File photo courtesy of Macao News Pheu Thai Party faces a major setback as its ambitious casino-entertainment complex bill encounters fierce resistance from multiple quarters. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358270-pheu-thai’s-casino-bill-stalls-amid-fierce-opposition-and-coalition-tensions/

Thaksin's Political Maze: Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai at Odds File photo courtesy of Thai Rath Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of Thailand's Pheu Thai party, is navigating a political conundrum as he steers the coalition government from behind the scenes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358268-thaksins-political-maze-pheu-thai-and-bhumjaithai-at-odds/

Pictures courtesy of Daily News

File photo courtesy of Thai Rath Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of Thailand's Pheu Thai party, is navigating a political conundrum as he steers the coalition government from behind the scenes. Despite having his daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, in the prime minister's seat, tensions with coalition partner Bhumjaithai threaten stability. Internal conflicts, unresolved legal challenges, and imminent lawsuits keep Thaksin's grasp on power precarious. The coalition’s fragile balance faces further strain due to the Senate, heavily influenced by Bhumjaithai’s Newin Chidchob, maintaining a significant say in appointments to judicial and anti-corruption agencies. This control leaves Thaksin seeking covert alliances to ease legal pressures shadowing both himself and his daughter. Allegations of electoral misconduct by many senators complicate this delicate dance. The judicial landscape could become a minefield for Paetongtarn as the Supreme Court examines her alleged dereliction of duty. Potential charges include misuse of power and evasion of taxes, alongside irregularities in land dealing and preferential treatment for Thaksin during his hospital stay. The political situation teeters between legal threats and coalition instability, trapping Thaksin in a complex web of strategic plays. Adding to the turbulence is Thaksin's push for casino legislation, which faces staunch resistance from Bahtjaithai, led by Chaichanok Chidchob. While reshaping the coalition is an option, such moves risk backlash or failure without sufficient parliamentary support. Thaksin’s manoeuvres are further complicated by the need to maintain a delicate balance within the coalition to ensure continued governance. Though tempted to dissolve parliament and call for elections, fears of defeat against the reformist People's party stall such decisions. With aspirations to secure a return for his sister Yingluck Shinawatra, Thaksin faces an intricate political landscape. The ultimate challenge remains to keep the Pheu Thai-led bloc afloat, carefully navigating a path through these multifaceted political obstacles until the government’s term concludes in 2027. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom -- 2025-04-21

File photo courtesy of Macao News Pheu Thai Party faces a major setback as its ambitious casino-entertainment complex bill encounters fierce resistance from multiple quarters. Initially set for a fast-tracked approval by April 9, the bill’s first reading in the House of Representatives has been postponed until the next parliamentary session on July 2. The decision comes amidst heated opposition, particularly from Bhumjaithai Party members and critics outside parliament. Interior Minister and Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul assures there's no internal party turmoil, despite party secretary-general Chaichanok Chidchob opposing the bill in parliament. Meanwhile, senators affiliated with Bhumjaithai and other critics warn that the bill could face significant challenges moving forward. Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra stresses the government’s commitment to transparency and public opinion before advancing the bill. Public opposition mounts as stakeholders call for comprehensive studies on potential social impacts, criticising the rush to legalise casino complexes. Many critics argue that the initiative not only lacks moral foundation but risks unconstitutional implications. Director Stithorn Thananithichot suggests a public referendum could be the fairest path to gauge sentiment on the controversial measure. The government faces mounting pressure, balancing economic ambitions against potential political fallout. Romours of demonstrations and large-scale protests loom if the bill progresses without public consent. However, some insiders speculate that Pheu Thai might navigate around coalition tensions to push the bill through, once parliamentary sessions resume. A special Senate committee continues to assess the proposal, with findings expected in 180 days, underlining the bill's uncertain future. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-21

Pcture courtesy of Naewna In a heart-wrenching scene outside the Mae Sariang district office, a 58-year-old community developer, identified only as Ms. Kanya, set herself ablaze in a desperate plea against crippling loan shark debts. This afternoon's tragic event unfolded as loan sharks evicted her from her home. Local newspaper Naewna reports the harrowing incident left witnesses in shock. Ms. Kanya had contacted a reporter to meet her, handing over documents detailing her plight before dousing herself in oil and igniting it with a lighter. Attempts to stop her failed as Volunteer Defence Corps and district staff rushed to extinguish the flames that consumed her upper body and face. Despite severe injuries, emergency responders swiftly transferred her from Mae Sariang Hospital to a facility in Chiang Mai for critical care. Within her documents, Ms. Kanya appealed to TV personality Kanchai Kamnerdploi, known as Noom Kanchai, requesting his help to construct a modest home for her elderly mother. The papers revealed a pending, yet unapproved loan from the Government Housing Bank and highlighted her struggle against hefty loan shark interest rates of 3 to 5% per month, culminating in the loss of her property with eviction looming the next day. Fearful of alarming her mother due to her advanced age, Ms. Kanya kept her burdens hidden. Meanwhile, Mae Sariang District Chief Mr. Worasak Phanthong has collaborated with police and municipal officials to investigate the circumstances and pursue legal recourse. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom -- 2025-04-21

14th Floor Drama: Court Challenge Over Thaksin's Hospital Stay Gains Momentum Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Thailand's Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is stepping up a legal challenge regarding former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's extended hospital stay. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358314-14th-floor-drama-court-challenge-over-thaksins-hospital-stay-gains-momentum/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Thailand's Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is stepping up a legal challenge regarding former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's extended hospital stay. The NHRC has urged the Ombudsman to seek a court order to nullify the decision allowing Thaksin to be treated at Police General Hospital for 181 days, rather than in prison. This action follows complaints received by the commission about potential human rights violations linked to the Bangkok Special Prison's failure to enforce laws strictly. The complaint cited concerns that the special treatment violated the constitution's requirement for strict law enforcement. Sources indicate that the NHRC's decision hinges on alleged non-compliance with the law. Specifically, it was reported that the Bangkok Special Prison authorised Thaksin’s hospital stay without also obtaining the necessary court approval to suspend the prison sentence, as mandated by Thai criminal procedure law. This has sparked accusations of malpractice, with critics arguing that the prison's actions undermined the legal process and democratic principles. The NHRC suggests that complete compliance with the law requires the dual application of ministry regulations and criminal procedures. They argue that seeking court approval could potentially prevent the perception of preferential treatment. If the legal procedures and court approvals cannot retroactively apply, the NHRC believes that the court might declare the decision allowing Thaksin's release from prison for hospitalisation void under constitutional law. The NHRC has requested that this issue be escalated to the Administrative Court by the Ombudsman. The commission aims to rectify any infractions of legal processes and ensure that the same standards of legal compliance apply to all detainees without bias. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siam Rath -- 2025-04-21

Thais Demand Immediate Cabinet Shakeup, Commerce Hits Top Priority File photo courtesy: Facebook Thai Khu Fa A majority of Thais are calling for an urgent reshuffle in Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's Cabinet, with the Commerce Ministry topping the list, a recent NIDA Poll reveals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358313-thais-demand-immediate-cabinet-shakeup-commerce-hits-top-priority/

File photo courtesy: Facebook Thai Khu Fa A majority of Thais are calling for an urgent reshuffle in Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's Cabinet, with the Commerce Ministry topping the list, a recent NIDA Poll reveals. Conducted from April 5th to 9th, the survey engaged 1,310 individuals across a variety of backgrounds to voice their views on a potential cabinet overhaul. A significant 48.24% of respondents expressed it was high time for a shakeup, while only 16.18% disagreed, suggesting it wasn't necessary yet. Meanwhile, 15.50% propose waiting another three months, and 10.07% see a six-month delay as rightful. The urgent call for change sees the Commerce Ministry as the primary target (57.02%), closely followed by the Ministries of Agriculture, Finance, Prime Minister's Office, and Labour, all around the 40-50% mark. Officially appointed on September 3rd, 2024, the current Cabinet is facing criticism for unmet campaign promises. Key pledges, such as raising the minimum wage to 400 baht and ensuring a starting salary of 25,000 baht for university graduates, remain unfulfilled. Additionally, critics have spotlighted the government's failure to curb electricity charges. Economic concerns are further fuelled by falling prices in key agricultural sectors, including rice, maize, rubber, tapioca, and sugarcane, marking significant drops compared to last year. As the pressure mounts, the demand for a responsive and timely government response intensifies. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World -- 2025-04-21