webfact

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. On June 18th, the Constitutional Court postponed the Election Commission's lawsuit against Move Forward, setting the next court date for July 3rd. The court ordered both sides to submit their respective affidavits within seven days. This development comes after Move Forward advocated for amending the lese majeste law (Section 112 of the Criminal Code) during last year's electoral campaigns. Move Forward has firmly denied the allegations, stating that their proposed amendments to the lese majeste law aim to protect the monarchy from political misuse and foster positive relationships between the people and the monarchy. However, Thailand's Constitutional Court previously deemed Move Forward's actions as "abrasive" and warned that they could undermine the nation's rule, thereby instructing the party to cease their efforts. Pita Limjaroenrat, the former leader and current MP of Move Forward, has argued that the Election Commission's procedural lapse invalidates the lawsuit, highlighting that no party members were summoned for testimony. Should the court find Move Forward guilty, severe consequences loom: the party could be dissolved, and its executive board members, including MPs, might lose their status and be barred from holding any political positions for a decade. This would impact prominent figures like current leader Chaithawat Tulathon, Deputy House Speaker Padipat Santipada, and Pita himself. Pita Limjaroenrat. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Passes Landmark Same-Sex Marriage Law Picture courtesy: MGR onbline 18 June marks a historic day for Thailand as the country's Senate overwhelmingly approves a same-sex marriage bill, making it the first nation in Southeast Asia to recognise same-sex unions. The bill passed with an overwhelming majority vote of 130 to 4, with 18 abstentions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330089-thailand-passes-landmark-same-sex-marriage-law/

18 June marks a historic day for Thailand as the country's Senate overwhelmingly approves a same-sex marriage bill, making it the first nation in Southeast Asia to recognise same-sex unions. The bill passed with an overwhelming majority vote of 130 to 4, with 18 abstentions. This landmark decision culminates years of relentless advocacy by LGBTQ+ activists and allies in Thailand. With this legislation, same-sex couples can marry and enjoy the same legal protections and benefits as heterosexual couples, including inheritance rights, joint property ownership, and access to healthcare and social welfare programmes. The law's passage has been met with widespread jubilation from the LGBTQ+ community and supporters, viewing it as a significant victory for equality and human rights. Many have hailed it as a turning point for Thailand, a country renowned for its vibrant LGBTQ+ culture and general tolerance. Picture courtesy: MGR onbline Amidst the celebrations, the Thai government has also warmly welcomed the bill’s approval, seeing it as a means to promote Thailand as a progressive and inclusive destination for tourists and investors. The country is now preparing to bid for the 2030 World Pride celebrations, further cementing its role as a leader in LGBTQ+ rights in the region. The new law is expected to take effect within 120 days. Once implemented, Thailand will become the third place in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage, following Taiwan's decision in 2019 and Nepal's recent legislation in 2023. This legislative achievement signals a progressive shift in Thailand's approach to human rights and sets a precedent for neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia. As the world watches, Thailand's bold move could inspire a broader recognition of LGBTQ+ rights across the region, highlighting the ongoing journey towards equality and acceptance for all. TOP Picture courtesy: MGR onbline -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin Released on Bail Amid Long-Running Lese Majeste Case Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thaksin Shinawatra, Thailand's former Prime Minister and influential Pheu Thai Party figure, was granted bail today, June 18, over a controversial lese majeste case that could drag on for years. The court set bail at 500,000 baht and confiscated his passports as part of the conditions for his release. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330088-thaksin-released-on-bail-amid-long-running-lese-majeste-case/

Thaksin Shinawatra, Thailand's former Prime Minister and influential Pheu Thai Party figure, was granted bail today, June 18, over a controversial lese majeste case that could drag on for years. The court set bail at 500,000 baht and confiscated his passports as part of the conditions for his release. The lese majeste charge, or Section 112 of the Criminal Code, stems from a 2015 interview in Seoul where Thaksin allegedly implicated the monarchy in the 2006 coup that ousted him. The 75-year-old Thaksin denies the charges, claiming he has been unfairly targeted by the 2014 coup d'etat, led by then-army chief Prayut Chan-o-cha which removed his sister, former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. Authorities believe that Thaksin, now living with his family in Bangkok, is unlikely to flee the country again. The first court hearing is scheduled for August 19, and the legal battle could stretch over several years before any verdict is reached. This comes after Thaksin’s return to Thailand last August, ending 17 years of self-imposed exile. He had left the country in 2008 to evade a series of charges, for which he was sentenced in absentia to eight years in prison. Initially set for eight years of incarceration, his sentence was reduced to one year following a royal pardon. Instead of serving time in prison, however, Thaksin has been residing at Police Hospital for six months, citing critical health issues—a claim many believe to be fabricated to avoid jail time. Meanwhile, the political landscape remains complicated. Thaksin has been accused of influencing Pheu Thai's coalition arrangement and the allocation of cabinet portfolios from his hospital bed. Real estate tycoon Srettha Thavisin, closely linked to Yingluck, was appointed Prime Minister, raising speculation about a backdoor deal crafted by Thaksin and other established powers. Yingluck, also in self-exile since the 2014 coup, may return to Thailand next year, with Thaksin indicating she could be present for the Songkran festival in their home province of Chiang Mai. The unfolding legal saga and its implications are sure to keep Thailand's political landscape in flux for some time. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 19 June 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1330087-thailand-live-wednesday-19-june/

Hearing on Petition Against PM Srettha Slated for July 10 by Charter Court Srettha Thavisin. File photo The Charter Court has scheduled July 10 as the initial hearing date for a petition filed by 40 previous senators. They accuse Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin of breaching the Constitution by appointing Phichit Chuenban to the role of PM Office Minister, even after he served prison time. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330080-hearing-on-petition-against-pm-srettha-slated-for-july-10-by-charter-court/

A 39-year-old man from India has been arrested for smuggling after authorities discovered 5.7 kilograms of cocaine in his luggage upon his arrival at Don Mueang Airport from Laos. The drugs are estimated to be worth about 17 million baht. Indian man arrested for cocaine possession at Don Mueang airport Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330066-passenger-arrested-for-cocaine-possession-at-don-mueang-airport/

UPDATE: Urgent: Thaksin Released On Bail In Lese Majeste Case by TNR Staff FORMER prime minister and de facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra was released on bail by the Criminal Court at 10.45 a.m. today (June 18) in a lese majeste lawsuit filed against him, Naewna newspaper said. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330029-thaksin-appears-in-criminal-court-to-face-formal-lese-majeste-charges/?do=findComment&comment=18999691

Urgent: Thaksin Released On Bail In Lese Majeste Case by TNR Staff FORMER prime minister and de facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra was released on bail by the Criminal Court at 10.45 a.m. today (June 18) in a lese majeste lawsuit filed against him, Naewna newspaper said. Early this morning Thaksin and his entourage had left his Chan Song Lah residence in a grey Mercedes Benz sedan and went to the Attorney-General’s Office on Ratchadapisek road, after prosecutors moved to file a case against him on lese majeste, also known Section 112 of the Criminal Code, charges and allegedly violating the Computer Crimes Act. He then went to the Criminal Court and to avoid the big media contingent used the rear entrance. Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-06-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

'Thaksin' received bail in the amount of 5 hundred thousand baht in the case of Section 112-Computer Act. Denies all accusations and asks to fight the case. Source: Facebook

Finance Minister Blocks Mobile Phones from Digital Wallet Funds File photo In a move to ensure the digital wallet scheme benefits the local economy, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat has urged the Commerce Ministry to reassess its decision to permit recipients of the 10,000-baht payout from the scheme to use the funds on mobile phones. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330037-finance-minister-blocks-mobile-phones-from-digital-wallet-funds/

In a move to ensure the digital wallet scheme benefits the local economy, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat has urged the Commerce Ministry to reassess its decision to permit recipients of the 10,000-baht payout from the scheme to use the funds on mobile phones. This decision comes amid concerns that allowing such a purchase would not effectively stimulate domestic spending as most mobile phones are either imported or contain foreign components. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin echoed these concerns, emphasising that spending the payout on imported mobile phones could thwart the scheme’s primary goal of bolstering the local economy. Julapun, who chairs the committee overseeing the digital wallet initiative, disclosed that these issues were discussed in detail during a recent meeting involving the Finance and Commerce ministries and other state agencies. The meeting aimed to finalise the list of goods that can be purchased using the digital cash. The digital wallet scheme is a cornerstone policy of the Pheu Thai Party-led government, designed to revive the ailing economy. The scheme promises 10,000 baht in digital money to any citizen aged 16 or older, provided their annual income does not exceed 840,000 baht. The project is expected to cost the state around 500 billion baht. To ensure adequate funding for this initiative, the Cabinet has approved a Budget Bureau proposal to raise the budget deficit for the 2024 fiscal year by 112 billion baht. With this increase, the total budget for the next fiscal year will be 3.48 trillion baht, representing a 13.1% rise from the previous year. Despite the significant financial outlay, proponents argue that the scheme aligns with the government’s medium-term financial plan. The Finance Ministry is keen to reevaluate which products can be purchased using the digital funds. At present, the inclusion of mobile phones remains a contentious issue, with further deliberations expected. The final decision will critically impact how the funds are utilised and whether they achieve the intended economic stimulus. File photo -- 2024-06-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Police Arrest 126 in Euro 2024 Betting Operation Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Police arrested 126 individuals for betting on the 2024 UEFA European Football Championships (Euro 2024) matches over the weekend, the Royal Thai Police (RTP) confirmed yesterday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330033-thai-police-arrest-126-in-euro-2024-betting-operation/

Police arrested 126 individuals for betting on the 2024 UEFA European Football Championships (Euro 2024) matches over the weekend, the Royal Thai Police (RTP) confirmed yesterday. Of those arrested, six were detained for facilitating the betting activities, while 117 were apprehended for participating in illegal betting. The remaining individuals, according to assistant national police chief Police Lieutenant General Akkaradej Pimolsri, were involved in distributing betting tickets to gamblers. Many of the arrests occurred in nightclubs and other venues showing live broadcasts of the matches, where patrons were caught betting on the results. Police seized approximately 150 betting tickets and 11,000 baht in cash as evidence. “Following these crackdowns, police stations nationwide have been instructed to intensify their efforts to suppress football gambling, including online betting rings,” said Police Lieutenant General Akkaradej. Entertainment venues showing live broadcasts of the Euro 2024 matches will face increased scrutiny. Authorities are urging the public to report football gambling activities via the police’s 191 or 1599 hotline numbers, which are available 24/7. A recent survey by the Centre for Gambling Studies at Chulalongkorn University revealed that nearly three million young people had engaged in some form of online gambling over the past year, leading to a combined debt exceeding 770 million baht. Conducted between January 20 and February 24 of last year, the survey utilised various methods, including face-to-face interviews, and involved 5,010 participants aged 15 to 25 across 19 provinces. “The results highlight a significant issue among the youth as young people accrue substantial debts through online gambling,” added the study’s authors. Thai authorities are doubling down on measures to prevent illegal betting, particularly as the excitement builds for Euro 2024. This arrest spree is likely the beginning of a broader crackdown set to last throughout the tournament. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-06-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin appears in Criminal Court to face formal lese majeste charges Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Thailand's ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has reported to Bangkok's Ratchadaphisek Criminal Court today to be formally indicted with charges of lese majeste and violating the Computer Crime Act. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330029-thaksin-appears-in-criminal-court-to-face-formal-lese-majeste-charges/

Thailand's ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has reported to Bangkok's Ratchadaphisek Criminal Court today to be formally indicted with charges of lese majeste and violating the Computer Crime Act. The charges have been filed by public prosecutors, marking a significant moment in the controversial political figure's ongoing legal battles. Thaksin left his Chan Song La residence this morning in a chauffeured Mercedes Benz, offering a brief wave to the assembled media through his car window. His personal lawyer, Winyat Chartmontri, attended the Office of the Attorney-General (OAG) on his behalf to acknowledge the lese majeste charge and later joined him at the court. Arriving at the court through the back gate at about 8:48 am, Thaksin’s arrival was closely monitored by a sizable group of journalists and photographers. Many of his red-shirt supporters gathered in the court's compound to show their solidarity, with more expected to join as the day progresses. The legal procedures require Thaksin to be formally indicted before the court's judges. Following the indictment, his lawyer will then submit a bail application. If the application is denied, Thaksin will be remanded to the Bangkok Remand Prison until trial. Conversely, if bail is granted, he will be released. Winyat assured the media at the OAG that Thaksin remains unperturbed about the court's decision on his bail application, expressing confidence and readiness for the impending trial. The lese majeste charge against Thaksin stems from a 2015 interview with a South Korean newspaper, during which he accused privy councillors of endorsing the 2014 coup that deposed the government of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. The indictment raises the stakes in Thaksin's complex legal and political journey, drawing significant public and media attention. Picture courtesy: Thai PBS -- 2024-06-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Heavy Rains and High Waves Forecast in 39 Provinces Thailand's Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a major weather warning, forecasting heavy rains in 39 provinces, including Bangkok. High waves are also expected in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, posing risks for local fishermen and coastal areas. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330027-heavy-rains-and-high-waves-forecast-in-39-provinces/

Thailand's Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a major weather warning, forecasting heavy rains in 39 provinces, including Bangkok. High waves are also expected in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, posing risks for local fishermen and coastal areas. The situation is due to an active southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea, Gulf of Thailand, and a low-pressure zone near Vietnam's coast. This combination is likely to result in significant thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, particularly impacting eastern and western parts of southern Thailand. Thunderstorms and Temperatures Across Regions The upper Andaman Sea will witness waves reaching heights of 1 to 2 metres, potentially exceeding 2 metres in stormy areas. Fishermen are advised to exercise extreme caution. Northern Thailand Expect thunderstorms in 40% of the region, impacting provinces such as Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai. Temperatures will range from 24 to 37 degrees Celsius, with a southwest wind blowing at 10-20 km/h. Northeastern Thailand About 30% of the area will experience storms, notably in Nong Khai, Udon Thani, and Sakon Nakhon. Minimum temperatures will hover between 24 to 28 degrees Celsius, while the maximum could hit 39 degrees, with similar wind conditions as the north. Central Thailand Thunderstorms will affect 40% of this region, focusing on provinces like Nakhon Sawan and Kanchanaburi. Expect temperatures from 23 to 38 degrees Celsius and a southwest wind at 10-20 km/h. Eastern and Southern Regions In the east, 40% of the areas, including Rayong and Trat, will face storms with heavy rainfall in some places. Southern regions will have varied impacts: the east coast will see storms in 40% of areas like Surat Thani, while the west coast will be hit harder, with 60% affected, particularly in Ranong and Phuket. Bangkok and Surroundings The capital will experience thunderstorms in 40% of its area. Temperatures will be between 23 to 38 degrees Celsius, affected by a southwest wind at 10-20 km/h. As the country braces for these adverse weather conditions, residents are urged to stay updated and exercise caution, particularly in flood-prone areas. -- 2024-06-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Political Ally Predicts Court Will Dismiss Move Forward Party Case File photo. Source: Wikimedia The Progressive Movement (PM), a key ally of the Move Forward Party (MFP), publicly expressed confidence that the Constitutional Court will dismiss the case against the MFP. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330026-political-ally-predicts-court-will-dismiss-move-forward-party-case/

The Progressive Movement (PM), a key ally of the Move Forward Party (MFP), publicly expressed confidence that the Constitutional Court will dismiss the case against the MFP. Piyabutr Saengkanokkul, PM’s Secretary-General, shared his views on Facebook ahead of the court proceedings, accusing the Election Commission (EC) of failing to adhere to Section 93 of the political parties’ organic law. According to Piyabutr, Thailand's EC bypassed essential legal procedures necessary for a legitimate petition, specifically omitting detailed grounds for dissolution and denying the MFP the chance to mount a defence. “The EC’s failure to comply will result in the petition being considered illegitimate,” Piyabutr declared. He highlighted that the EC's petition to dissolve the MFP stemmed from an earlier Constitutional Court ruling on January 31. The court had concluded that the MFP's attempt to amend Section 112 of the Criminal Code, concerning lese majeste, indicated an intention to undermine the constitutional monarchy. Piyabutr, formerly an associate professor of law at Thammasat University, argued, “Had the EC strictly performed its duty under Section 93, the MFP would have had the chance to defend itself against the petition during the EC’s fact-finding investigation.” In response, the EC maintained that it had followed proper protocols, a stance the MFP strongly disputes. The MFP insists that the EC mishandled the investigation and court petition. Adding to the controversy, political activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana plans to petition the court to probe alleged interference by the Move Forward Party’s Chief Adviser, Pita Limjaroenrat. Ruangkrai’s allegation stems from Pita’s public commentary on June 9 regarding the MFP’s detailed 70-page defence submitted to the court, which he claims aims to mislead the public and influence court procedure. As the court date looms, both sides await a resolution to this high-stakes political drama which could significantly impact the political landscape. File photo. Source: Wikimedia -- 2024-06-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Referendum bill poised to clear first hurdle in the House File photo courtesy: Wikimedia The government-sponsored referendum bill, aimed at revising the Referendum Act 2021 as part of the charter rewrite process, is poised to clear the initial House test, says Chart Thai Pattana Party list-MP Nikorn Chamnong. Nikorn, who heads a sub-committee on the charter referendum, revealed that the bill is ready for House deliberation following discussions with opposition whips. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330022-referendum-bill-poised-to-clear-first-hurdle-in-the-house/

The government-sponsored referendum bill, aimed at revising the Referendum Act 2021 as part of the charter rewrite process, is poised to clear the initial House test, says Chart Thai Pattana Party list-MP Nikorn Chamnong. Nikorn, who heads a sub-committee on the charter referendum, revealed that the bill is ready for House deliberation following discussions with opposition whips. Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, who leads a government panel on public vote requirements for charter changes, will present the bill to the House of Representatives today. This bill had earlier been posted on the PM's Office website for public feedback before undergoing refinements and Cabinet approval. Nikorn expressed optimism that the bill would pass smoothly, along with three other pending referendum bills with similar principles proposed by the ruling Pheu Thai Party, the main opposition Move Forward Party (MFP), and the Bhumjaithai Party. Pakornwut Udompipatsakul, the chief opposition whip, noted that the government-sponsored bill is expected to be accepted alongside the others, which will then be consolidated during the scrutiny stage by a special House committee. Nikorn stated that the amendment aims to enhance current referendum laws, making them comprehensive enough to apply beyond just the constitution. The bill seeks to abolish the double majority rule, criticised for making it difficult to pass essential laws. This rule requires over 50% of eligible voters' participation and the majority of those voting to approve a new charter. Additionally, the bill proposes holding referendums alongside national elections to save time and expenses and allowing voting by post or electronic means. Nikorn anticipates that amending the referendum law and its subsequent screening by a new Senate will take no more than six months. File photo courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-06-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Auto Parts Makers Urged to Enter Medical Devices Market Picture courtesy Polar Seal The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is urging local auto parts manufacturers to adapt to the technological disruption caused by electric vehicles (EVs) and transition to producing medical devices, which are projected to have a promising future. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330021-thai-auto-parts-makers-urged-to-enter-medical-devices-market/

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is urging local auto parts manufacturers to adapt to the technological disruption caused by electric vehicles (EVs) and transition to producing medical devices, which are projected to have a promising future. According to the FTI, auto parts makers accustomed to internal combustion engines are finding it difficult to adapt to electric mobility technology, as many of their products are no longer needed by EV makers. FTI Vice-Chairman Isares Rattanadilok Na Phuket sees this shift as an opportunity to stimulate the economy in different sectors. “We will discuss this shift with the government and hope to create new product champions in the medical field. This can become another effort to stimulate the economy.” A cluster under FTI Mobility-ONE, a new unit within the federation, advocates auto parts producers to pivot to manufacturing medical products. These products include both single-use devices like diagnostic test kits and durable items such as wheelchairs and hospital beds. This cluster, known as CFM-ONE, was established last year to support the development of Thailand’s automotive industry and assist car and auto parts companies in overcoming business challenges. The FTI includes up to 1,700 auto parts manufacturers, most of which are small or medium-sized original equipment manufacturers categorised as tier 2 and tier 3 in the auto parts supply chain. Tier 1 producers are typically subsidiaries of global car companies. Second and third-tier manufacturers, experienced in plastic stamping and processes involving rubber and electronics, have the potential to transition to producing medical devices. Krungsri Research predicts robust growth for Thai medical device manufacturers from 2023 to 2025. The value of goods distributed domestically and internationally is expected to increase by an annual average of 5.5 to 7.0% and 6.5 to 7.5%, respectively. Several factors will drive market growth, including an ageing society and the corresponding rise in illness rates, the threat of newly emerging diseases, increased interest in preventive healthcare post-pandemic, and growing demand for medical tourism. Wellness and medical tourism is one of the government’s 12 targeted S-curve industries with significant growth potential. According to Krungsri Research, Thailand is globally recognised for its high quality of care and low costs. CFM-ONE has previously stated its intention to collaborate with global car manufacturers to assist local auto parts makers who wish to remain in the automotive industry in transitioning to producing parts for electric vehicles. Picture courtesy Polar Seal -- 2024-06-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe