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Couple found dead in car in Bangkok's Suan Luang district Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a tragic incident, a couple was discovered dead inside their parked car on Phatthanakan Soi 12, near Isan Tawandang Restaurant in the Suan Luang District of Bangkok. The vehicle’s engine had been running until the fuel was exhausted, and early indications suggest the pair may have succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330111-couple-found-dead-in-car-in-bangkoks-suan-luang-district/

In a tragic incident, a couple was discovered dead inside their parked car on Phatthanakan Soi 12, near Isan Tawandang Restaurant in the Suan Luang District of Bangkok. The vehicle’s engine had been running until the fuel was exhausted, and early indications suggest the pair may have succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning. Police Lieutenant Sirichai Kaewprasith from Khlong Tan Police Station arrived at the scene around 8.20pm yesterday, accompanied by Police Colonel Wachirakorn Wongboon and Ruam Katanyu Foundation volunteers. The white Mazda sedan, bearing the licence plate ชภ 6664 Bangkok, contained the bodies of 27-year-old Vilaiwan Wantana and 24-year-old Niroj Phonphan, both employees at Isan Tawandang Restaurant. Vilaiwan, a dancer, was reclined in the driver’s seat, while Niroj, a waiter, occupied the passenger seat. Preliminary forensic examinations conducted by experts from Chulalongkorn Hospital and the Central Forensic Science Division of the Royal Thai Police revealed no visible injuries. The bodies have been estimated as lifeless for approximately 12 hours before discovery. Further autopsies will be conducted to confirm the exact cause of death. CCTV footage confirmed the couple leaving the restaurant around 2am, shortly after closing time. Vilaiwan and Niroj entered the car, which was later found parked with its fuel tank empty. Vilaiwan’s brother, Vatcharachai Chupan, reported his sister missing after she failed to return home. Initially, he had assumed she was still at the restaurant, as it was common for her to take a taxi home when inebriated. Upon realising she was not at her boyfriend's either and growing increasingly worried, he returned to the car in the evening and found both occupants dead, prompting him to contact the police. Authorities now await the detailed autopsy results to shed light on the precise circumstances surrounding the deaths. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Temple’s Electricity Bill Mystery: Abbot Confounded by Asterisks Picture courtesy: Sanook The abbot of Wat Pa Amphawan Khunanusorn in Buriram found himself perplexed when the temple’s latest electricity bill lacked both the FT charge and the total amount due, displaying only asterisks instead. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330110-temple’s-electricity-bill-mystery-abbot-confounded-by-asterisks/

The abbot of Wat Pa Amphawan Khunanusorn in Buriram found himself perplexed when the temple’s latest electricity bill lacked both the FT charge and the total amount due, displaying only asterisks instead. This incongruous bill has left the abbot and the temple’s supporters unsure of how to proceed with the payment. Phra Ajarn Lesak Varrasapho, the abbot of Wat Pa Amphawan Khunanusorn in Nang Rong District, took to social media to express his bewilderment. He posted an image of the bill along with a puzzled message: “The electricity bill is 10,000 baht, but Wat Pa Amphawan… pays 0 baht… confused… dazed…” When reporters visited the temple to investigate, Phra Ajarn Lesak showed them the infamous bill for May, which conspicuously lacked both an FT charge and a total payment amount. Picture courtesy: Sanook Normally, the temple pays between 3,000 to 4,000 baht each month, with this amount fluctuating based on the number of religious activities, funerals, or training sessions conducted. The temple covers these costs through donations from the local community. Typically, the electricity bill is handed over to donors who contribute towards these expenses. However, due to the mysterious asterisks on the latest bill, it remains unclear how much the temple actually owes. Phra Ajarn Lesak plans to take the bewildering bill to the electricity authority for clarification. He hopes to find out what caused the error and to determine the correct amount owed for the month. The abbot also urges officials to meticulously check bills before issuing them to avoid such confusion in the future. The incident has highlighted the importance of accurate billing and the potential complications that can arise from even minor errors. Picture courtesy: Sanook -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Monk Shocks Community with Violent Killing at Temple Picture via Facebook/ หนังสือพิมพ์รายวัน.สยามประชา In a shocking event, a Thai monk named Suntree has confessed to murdering Suppapong, a man seeking food at Khao Peep Temple in Chumphon Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330104-thai-monk-shocks-community-with-violent-killing-at-temple/

In a shocking event, a Thai monk named Suntree has confessed to murdering Suppapong, a man seeking food at Khao Peep Temple in Chumphon Province. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about the sanctity of a place meant for peace and spiritual solace. Suppapong’s wife, Onpreya, had raised the alarm after her husband vanished on June 14, believing he had sought refuge at the temple. Initially, the monks, Suntree and his father Had, denied seeing the missing man. However, Suppapong’s body was discovered on June 15 in a pond within a nearby palm plantation, just 200 metres from the temple. He had been viciously stabbed multiple times in the face—unusually, the weapon was identified as a sharp steel object rather than a knife. Police interrogated the monks on June 18. Initial accounts suggested that Had and his son would typically collect food offerings at 5:30 a.m. and return by 8:30 a.m. However, security footage highlighted discrepancies: Had returned to the temple significantly earlier than Suntree on the day of the murder. Additionally, police noticed suspicious scratch marks on Suntree’s shoulder, which he dismissed as mosquito bites. After intense questioning, lasting over two hours, Suntree broke down and confessed. He narrated that Suppapong frequently awaited food leftovers at the temple. On the fateful day, the monk, not having eaten himself, requested Suppapong to wait. An argument ensued when Suppapong insisted on being served immediately, resulting in a violent confrontation in which Suntree used a stainless-steel spoon to fatally stab the man. Despite admitting to the assault, Suntree denied any involvement in moving the body to the plantation, leaving the police with unanswered questions. Following his confession, Suntree was ordered to disrobe and face legal actions. Reports indicate that Suntree had struggled with mental health issues since a car accident in his youth, often experiencing uncontrollable anger episodes. Future plans suggest that after serving his sentence, Suntree might return to his home province of Udon Thani, where arrangements could be made for him to receive plots of land to lead a stable life. The incident has severely tarnished the monk's reputation and cast a shadow over the otherwise serene environment of Khao Peep Temple. Picture via Facebook/ หนังสือพิมพ์รายวัน.สยามประชา -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Indian Tourist's holiday horror: Robbed, Assaulted in Pattaya Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail An Indian tourist was brutally assaulted and robbed in Pattaya early yesterday. Gobi Manimaran, 34, was ambushed by a gang in front of the White Rose Hotel during the early hours. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330103-indian-tourists-holiday-horror-robbed-assaulted-in-pattaya/

An Indian tourist was brutally assaulted and robbed in Pattaya early yesterday. Gobi Manimaran, 34, was ambushed by a gang in front of the White Rose Hotel during the early hours. The attackers pounced without warning, stealing his iPhone 10 and US$50 (approximately 1,750 baht) before fleeing into the night. A passerby, who witnessed the terrifying incident, quickly came to Manimaran's aid. Together, they reported the crime at Pattaya Police Station, keeping hopes high for swift justice. “We need to check the CCTV footage,” declared the helpful bystander. Despite their determination to track down the criminals immediately, the hotel management insisted the police be notified first. The police promptly recorded the incident and dispatched an investigative team to review the hotel's CCTV footage. They assured Manimaran that they would leave no stone unturned in their hunt for the perpetrators. In related developments, Thai Government spokesperson Chai Watcharong recently highlighted the success of a new visa-free policy for Indian tourists, effective from May 11 to November 11. This initiative aims to boost tourism and stimulate Thailand’s economy. Bookings by Indian tourists surged by 60% between 2022 and last year, according to Airbnb data. Searches for accommodations in Thailand by Indian tourists increased by over 200% during major holidays, such as the Holi Festival and Easter this year. The unfortunate incident with Manimaran casts a shadow on efforts to attract more Indian tourists, but authorities remain committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors. Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Palang Pracharath Dismisses Exit Rumours Amidst Political Turbulence Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Today, the Palang Pracharath Party dismissed widespread rumours suggesting their potential expulsion from the Pheu Thai-led coalition government. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330102-palang-pracharath-dismisses-exit-rumours-amidst-political-turbulence/

Today, the Palang Pracharath Party dismissed widespread rumours suggesting their potential expulsion from the Pheu Thai-led coalition government. These whispers have circulated rapidly in recent days, casting shadows over the stability of Thailand’s political landscape. Deputy Prime Minister and Natural Resources & Environment Minister, Patcharawat Wongsuwan, firmly denied any knowledge of such plans. His remarks aimed to quash any notion that the Palang Pracharath, commanded by his brother Prawit Wongsuwan, might be forced out of the coalition abruptly. Adding weight to Patcharawat's statements, Agriculture & Cooperatives Minister Thammanat Prompao, who serves as the Palang Pracharath Secretary-General, asserted that no covert manoeuvre to expel their party was in motion. He underlined that their 40 MPs remain firmly part of the Pheu Thai-led coalition, which holds a total of 314 MPs. Despite these denials, speculation about Palang Pracharath's possible ousting gained traction following de facto Pheu Thai leader Thaksin Shinawatra’s public accusation against an unnamed influential figure. Thaksin suggested this individual orchestrated an impeachment attempt against Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Thaksin’s allegation alluded to “the man from a forest home,” a veiled reference believed to point to Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan, who chairs the Five Provinces Bordering Forest Preservation Foundation. This accusation surfaced after a controversial impeachment bid, initiated by 40 senators loyal to Prawit, targeted Prime Minister Srettha. The move followed Srettha’s contentious appointment of Pichit Chuenban, a former convict and Thaksin’s ex-lawyer, as minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office. The impeachment case has since been escalated to the Constitutional Court. These political wrangles underscore the volatile nature of alliance politics in Thailand, leaving many to watch closely how these tensions will unfold. For now, Palang Pracharath stands firm, seeking to dispel any notion of its imminent exclusion from the government. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Soda Bottle Explosion at Nearby Store leaves worker injured Picture courtesy: Khaosod A soda bottle explosion at a local shop has injured a worker, sparking medical professionals to issue safety warnings. The incident took place yesterday when the employee was placing soda bottles into an icebox. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330101-soda-bottle-explosion-at-nearby-store-leaves-worker-injured/

A soda bottle explosion at a local shop has injured a worker, sparking medical professionals to issue safety warnings. The incident took place yesterday when the employee was placing soda bottles into an icebox. One of the bottles unexpectedly exploded, causing glass shards to scrape their hands, resulting in three stitches. The shocking event was shared on the Facebook group "พวกเราคือผู้บริโภค" (We Are Consumers), which posted a video capturing the explosion. The footage, showing two workers carefully arranging soda bottles under a table before placing them into an icebox, has drawn widespread attention. As the bottle exploded, it alarmed everyone in the store. The worker's fingers were cut by the shards, and some glass pieces even struck customers nearby. Per the post, several precautions were already in place: the store was well-ventilated, the bottles were not exposed to direct sunlight, and they were stored in a relatively cool environment under the icebox. Moreover, the bottles were arranged vertically and had not been handled roughly. The soda had been ordered just one to two days prior to the explosion. Comments from concerned netizens suggested that the hot weather could be a factor. One commenter from a wholesale store noted, “Soda contains gas, and when it explodes, glass shards can travel farther than expected. It might be the sudden change from hot to cold temperatures.” Dr. Thapanawong Tangguraivan, an ophthalmologist at Phra Nang Klao Hospital, previously highlighted the dangers associated with soda bottles, especially during hot weather. He explained, “Sodas contain carbon dioxide gas, which adds fizz. In high temperatures, the gas expands and can cause glass bottles to explode.” Dr. Thapanawong stressed that such explosions could result in severe injuries, including blindness or loss of fingers. At-risk individuals include soda factory workers, shopkeepers, and frequent soda consumers. To mitigate these risks, Dr. Thapanawong advised factory workers to handle bottled sodas with extra care, particularly when transporting crates. For shopkeepers and consumers, he recommended storing soda bottles in shady areas and upright in refrigerators. Measures such as avoiding prolonged freezer storage and using a towel-wrapped bottle opener to release gas gradually were also suggested to prevent explosions. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 19 June 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330098-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-19-june-2024/

Suspended deputy national police chief Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn has filed a petition seeking an investigation into the unusual wealth of a member of the Anti-Corruption Commission who’s involved in a money laundering case against Hakparn.. The petition, signed by 20,000 people, requests the commissioner's removal. Surachate assured the signatures were genuine and unrelated to personal conflict. He also launched a website where the public could add their support. Police vowed to find the masterminds of an oil-smuggling gang and arrested seven crew members who went missing after three smuggling boats were recaptured off the coast of Malaysia on Monday. Police detained more suspects and witnesses connected to the ships, which contained 330,000 liters of smuggled oil and disappeared from a pier near Sattahip last week. The Criminal Court granted bail to Thaksin Shinawatra yesterday after he pleaded not guilty to a charge of lese majeste. 74 year old Thaksin, settled a bond of 500,000 baht and was ordered not to leave the country without permission from the court. The charge stems from an interview he gave to media in Seoul, South korea in 2015. Government House hosted a special celebration yesterday attended by many lgbtq supporters and celebrities, after the marriage equality bill was passed, making Thailand the first country in ASEAN, and the third in Asia, after Taiwan and Nepal, to recognise same-sex marriage. Around the region. Myanmar: about Half of the some 200 residents of Rakhine State’s capital who were rounded up by junta troops over the weekend have been released. Relatives were forced to pay ransoms of around 225 dollars at junta military bases. Some of residents as young as 15 were trucked to military bases and told to call relatives to pay ransoms for their release. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thundershowers 34 C degrees celsius Bangkok: sunny becoming cloudy 36 Pattaya: Bright partly cloudy 32 Phuket and the south: Thundershowers clearing up 31 Hua Hin: Bright partly cloudy 35 AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-06-19 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

IGNITE THAILAND: Anutin Unveils Initiative to Boost High-Tech Industries Picture courtesy: National News BUreau of Thailand Thailand is transitioning its economy towards high-value, high-tech industries, as unveiled in the “IGNITE THAILAND: Future Workforce for Future Industry” initiative. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330095-ignite-thailand-anutin-unveils-initiative-to-boost-high-tech-industries/

Thailand is transitioning its economy towards high-value, high-tech industries, as unveiled in the “IGNITE THAILAND: Future Workforce for Future Industry” initiative. The strategic announcement was made by Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation Supamas Isarabhakdi at a vision statement event yesterday (June 17) in Bangkok, attended by key governmental and industry leaders. During his speech, Anutin revealed foreign corporate interest, highlighting Apple Inc.’s plan to establish a campus at Chiang Mai University to support software development talent. The initiative targets key sectors such as semiconductors, advanced electronics, electric vehicles (EV), and artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing the need for upskilling and reskilling the workforce. This will be supported by various mechanisms, including human development programs, financial incentives for training, and enhanced educational and private sector collaborations. Supamas detailed an ambitious plan to develop over 280,000 skilled professionals across these industries within the next five years. Immediate projects include short-term Upskill/Reskill courses, the Coop+ Program linking students with employment post-graduation, and international internships. The plan also includes upgrading labs into training centres and establishing multiple new centres across Thailand focused on sectors critical to technological advancement. According to Minister Supamas, the comprehensive strategy underscores the government’s commitment to integrating education, policy, and business partnerships to drive growth in high-tech industries, positioning Thailand as a future leader in these fields. Picture courtesy: National News BUreau of Thailand -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Village Chief Defends Burning Practices Amid Air Pollution Crisis Picture courtesy: Newsday In Ban Mae Lan Kham, northern Thailand, villagers are gearing up for their annual land-clearing fires as the haze season begins, traditionally contributing to some of the world’s worst air pollution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330094-village-chief-defends-burning-practices-amid-air-pollution-crisis/

In Ban Mae Lan Kham, northern Thailand, villagers are gearing up for their annual land-clearing fires as the haze season begins, traditionally contributing to some of the world’s worst air pollution. Village chief Nanthawat Tiengtrongsakun and his community cut down shrubs and trees on their small plots, setting controlled burns to clear the fields for planting. This age-old practice emits plumes of smoke, leading to a thick grey haze that permeates the region and makes breathing difficult for many locals. Nanthawat, like many in his community, feels frustrated by the blame placed on the Pakanyo people, who are often accused of causing the haze and forest damage. "We are the ethnic group that preserves the forest. If we were causing the damage, the forest around us would be gone by now," he asserts. Chiang Mai, a major tourist destination, consistently ranks among the world’s most polluted provinces during the haze season, from February to April. The fine particulate matter levels can soar up to 20 times the World Health Organisation (WHO)’s recommended limit. This alarming pollution issue has prompted Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to prioritise clean air legislation, aiming to make Chiang Mai a model province in tackling air pollution. The primary culprit behind northern Thailand’s air pollution is typically seen as farmers growing corn for agro-food giants like CP Foods. Alternative stubble management methods like biochar or soil tilling are often too labour-intensive for the hilly terrain. In response to the outcry, CP Foods has implemented a tracing system to avoid purchasing corn from deforested or burned land. Nevertheless, much of the cultivation has shifted to neighbouring Myanmar and Laos, where stubble burning remains rampant. In an effort to combat this, the Thai prime minister has started discussions with these countries to reduce the practice. TOP Picture courtesy: Newsday -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Hua Hin Airport to Become International Hub by 2025 Picture courtesy: Wikipedia In an ambitious stride to elevate Thailand’s aviation clout, Hua Hin Airport in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province is set for a dramatic overhaul. The newly dubbed Phetch-Hua Hin International Airport aims for completion by late 2025. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330093-hua-hin-airport-to-become-international-hub-by-2025/

In an ambitious stride to elevate Thailand’s aviation clout, Hua Hin Airport in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province is set for a dramatic overhaul. The newly dubbed Phetch-Hua Hin International Airport aims for completion by late 2025. Earlier this week, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin visited the construction site, emphasising the project's significance. "This is a crucial step in elevating Thailand’s infrastructure," he remarked. Once completed, Phetch-Hua Hin Airport will be capable of receiving larger aircraft, setting the stage for increased international flights. The upgrades will include state-of-the-art technology and automated systems to enhance service quality and safety. This modernisation is expected to attract more tourists to Hua Hin and Cha-am beaches and improve connectivity to other Thai destinations. This development is part of a broader government initiative to elevate Thailand’s airports into the top 20 worldwide by the next five years, according to a report from Pattaya Mail. Original Story: PM Srettha’s Plan to Rename Hua Hin Airport During a visit to Hua Hin yesterday, Prime Minister Srettha disclosed his support for renaming the airport to Phetch-Hua Hin. This move aims to highlight the neighbouring Phetchaburi province and its untapped tourism potential. Currently located in Hua Hin district of Prachuap Khiri Khan province, the airport is close to Cha-am district in Phetchaburi. The prime minister noted the airport's current underuse and the need for substantial upgrades. He stressed that extending the runway to accommodate international flights could significantly boost the traveller count to the resort city. As of now, Thai AirAsia is the only airline offering regular flights to Hua Hin Airport, running a route from Chiang Mai four times a week, as per the airport’s official Facebook page. Strategic Move for Aviation Growth This renaming aligns with the Pheu Thai-led coalition government’s broader goal to transform Thailand into a leading aviation hub. By upgrading the airport and expanding its reach, PM Srettha hopes to attract more international visitors and stimulate the local economy. The proposal is expected to stir active debate among stakeholders, weighing potential benefits against costs and logistical hurdles. If successful, the rebranding could signify a landmark achievement in Thailand's tourism and aviation sectors, potentially setting a new regional development precedent. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Taxi Driver Nabbed in Sting After Hit-and-Run on Mercedes-Benz Picture courtesy: LINE A taxi driver involved in a hit-and-run incident was apprehended after police set up a sting operation with the victim posing as a passenger. Initially denying the allegations, CCTV footage played a crucial role in securing his conviction. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330092-taxi-driver-nabbed-in-sting-after-hit-and-run-on-mercedes-benz/

A taxi driver involved in a hit-and-run incident was apprehended after police set up a sting operation with the victim posing as a passenger. Initially denying the allegations, CCTV footage played a crucial role in securing his conviction. The incident unfolded yesterday around 6:17 pm in Mueang Thong Thani. A yellow taxi was caught on CCTV entering a village alley and colliding with a parked white Mercedes-Benz sedan before speeding away. The owner of the Mercedes-Benz reported the incident to Pak Kret Police Station, prompting an investigation. Deputy Superintendent Tiras Trintecha revealed that after examining the footage and identifying the taxi's registration number, police devised a plan to trap the driver. Lady Luck favoured them when the victim later spotted a taxi matching the description. To confirm, officers and the victim discreetly tailed the taxi while it had a passenger on board, waiting for an opportunity to enact their plan. After the passenger disembarked, the victim's girlfriend, disguised as a passenger, hailed the taxi, requesting to be dropped off near Pak Kret Police Station. Throughout the journey, the victim and police maintained continuous communication, following the taxi closely to avoid suspicion. As the taxi neared the police station, officers intercepted the vehicle and forced it to stop. Despite initially denying his involvement, the driver confessed after being shown the indisputable CCTV footage. The errant taxi driver was swiftly taken into custody and charged with fleeing the scene of an accident. He was handed over to investigators at Pak Kret Police Station for further legal proceedings. Additionally, Nonthaburi provincial transport officials have been notified to review the driver's records and consider imposing further penalties. This case underscores the effectiveness of coordinated efforts between victims and police, leading to a swift resolution that ensures justice is served. Picture courtesy: LINE -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Big Joke Pushes for Impeachment of Anti-Corruption Commissioner Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Police General Surachate Hakparn, commonly known as Big Joke, has initiated a bold move to impeach a member of Thailand's National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). His efforts come amid his own suspension from the Deputy Police Chief position due to allegations of involvement in an online gambling syndicate. Full tory: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330091-big-joke-pushes-for-impeachment-of-anti-corruption-commissioner/

Police General Surachate Hakparn, commonly known as Big Joke, has initiated a bold move to impeach a member of Thailand's National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). His efforts come amid his own suspension from the Deputy Police Chief position due to allegations of involvement in an online gambling syndicate. Big Joke submitted a petition, amassing 20,000 signatures, to House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha. The petition, received on June 18 by the House Speaker’s spokesman, Kampee Disthakorn, pushes for the impeachment of an unnamed NACC commissioner. Big Joke claims the commissioner in question has acquired unusual wealth, committed malfeasance, and violated ethical standards. While refusing to name the commissioner outright, it is widely believed that Big Joke's target is Suchart Trakulkasemsuk. The feud between them dates back to April when Big Joke accused the NACC of bias and sought to have Suchart disqualified from investigating his case. Big Joke’s impeachment petition is significant as it marks the first instance in Thai history where such action against an independent body has been proposed under Article 236 of the Constitution. This article allows citizens to request the removal of officials engaged in severe ethical transgressions. Big Joke's campaign kicked off with a signature-gathering event at the J A Plus Hotel in Pattaya. By the event's conclusion, he had already secured over 13,000 signatures, confident that the petition would soon meet the 20,000 mark. “This is not politically motivated, nor is it an act of revenge for the NACC’s bribery investigation against me,” Big Joke stated, emphasising the non-political nature of his actions. As Big Joke battles these allegations, the Royal Thai Police have issued a summons for him and four other officers linked to the BNK Master gambling website. This summons is part of a broader disciplinary investigation led by Deputy National Chief Sarawut Kanpanich, following Big Joke’s suspension on April 18. Big Joke maintains his innocence and has even announced his intention to run for the senatorial election, showing steadfast determination to continue serving the public despite the ongoing controversies. The unfolding drama highlights systemic challenges within Thai law enforcement and anti-corruption efforts, as high-stakes accusations and power struggles continue to shape public discourse. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

First hearing scheduled for Move Forward party dissolution case Pita Limjaroenrat. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath The processing of the contentious lawsuit against the Move Forward Party for allegedly undermining the nation's rule has been pushed back until early next month by the Constitutional Court. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330090-first-hearing-scheduled-for-move-forward-party-dissolution-case/