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Pattaya Mayor Strengthens Ties with Irish Tourism Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail In a significant push to boost international tourism, Mayor Poramet Ngampichet welcomed H.E. Patrick Bourne, Ambassador of Ireland to the Kingdom of Thailand, and his delegation. The high-profile visit centred on strengthening tourism ties and implementing measures to support Irish tourists in Pattaya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329928-pattaya-mayor-strengthens-ties-with-irish-tourism/

In a significant push to boost international tourism, Mayor Poramet Ngampichet welcomed H.E. Patrick Bourne, Ambassador of Ireland to the Kingdom of Thailand, and his delegation. The high-profile visit centred on strengthening tourism ties and implementing measures to support Irish tourists in Pattaya. During the meeting, Mayor Poramet expressed his delight and honour in hosting Ambassador Bourne. He emphasised the importance of knowledge exchange and collaboration in enhancing the tourism experience. Banlue Kullavanijaya, President of Pattaya City Council, and Poomiphat Kamolnart, Secretary to the Mayor, also joined the discussions. Key topics included various tourism aspects, focusing especially on ensuring visitors' safety and well-being. Mayor Poramet reassured the Irish delegation of Pattaya City’s unwavering commitment to providing high-quality services and a secure environment for tourists. He highlighted the city’s ongoing collaboration with different sectors to bolster tourists’ confidence and ensure their convenience and safety during their stay. “Pattaya City is dedicated to creating a secure and enjoyable environment for all visitors. Our collaboration with different sectors guarantees that tourists from Ireland and other countries feel welcome and protected while exploring the city. This visit signifies a step forward in strengthening the relationship between Pattaya and Ireland, paving the way for increased tourism and cultural exchange between our regions,” he stated. Ambassador Bourne reciprocated the enthusiasm, acknowledging the warm reception and the potential for a flourishing partnership. He noted that such collaborations could significantly enhance the travel experience for Irish tourists and foster greater understanding between the two cultures. This diplomatic visit is seen as a strategic move to not only attract more tourists from Ireland but also to build a more profound connection between Pattaya and Irish communities. It underscores a shared commitment to mutual growth and cultural exchange, setting the stage for a brighter, more interconnected future for both regions. Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Drug Bust at Newly Opened NASA Pub in Chonburi Picture courtesy: Amarin TV An early morning raid on the newly-opened NASA pub in Chonburi resulted in the arrest of 157 revellers for drug use, according to reports. Simultaneously, authorities found numerous sachets of narcotics discarded on the floor, Amarin TV revealed. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329927-drug-bust-at-newly-opened-nasa-pub-in-chonburi/

Picture courtesy: Amarin TV An early morning raid on the newly-opened NASA pub in Chonburi resulted in the arrest of 157 revellers for drug use, according to reports. Simultaneously, authorities found numerous sachets of narcotics discarded on the floor, Amarin TV revealed. The raid commenced at 1 a.m. today, June 15, and was spearheaded by a team from the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA), alongside local and narcotics police. They executed the operation following a warrant issued by the court. During the raid, officials encountered over 500 party-goers. Alarmingly, the majority attempted to flee the scene but were unsuccessful. Subsequent drug tests uncovered that 157 individuals tested positive for drug use, including eight minors. Additionally, police discovered and collected 77 discarded bags of drugs and e-cigarettes on the premises. Further checks revealed that four of the attendees were already wanted for existing drug-related offences. The NASA pub, which had recently opened, had already become a popular venue, frequented by celebrities and politicians. The bust was mainly triggered by a tip-off from an informant who had previously been detained during a raid at Dirty pub in Pattaya, now closed for five years. The pub’s management faces serious charges including operating without a licence, selling alcohol beyond the permitted hours, and allowing entry to underage individuals. These violations have further spotlighted the increasing trend of illegal activities in newly emerging entertainment spots within the region. The police and local authorities have vowed to continue their efforts in cracking down on such establishments to ensure that public health and safety are maintained. The recent raid on NASA pub serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing challenges authorities face in regulating entertainment venues. -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Bay Water Turns Black Due to Wastewater Discharge Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A startling sight of blackened seawater in Pattaya Bay has alarmed residents and tourists, yet city officials have quickly clarified the source of the pollution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329926-pattaya-bay-water-turns-black-due-to-wastewater-discharge/

A startling sight of blackened seawater in Pattaya Bay has alarmed residents and tourists, yet city officials have quickly clarified the source of the pollution. The unusual discolouration, initially feared to be an oil spill, was confirmed to be a result of wastewater discharge from a local sewage treatment plant. Over the past weekend, videos surfaced showing boats navigating through darkened water, sparking concerns about a potential oil spill. The immediate suspicion was that the slicks were related to three oil-smuggling vessels reported missing from a Marine Police pier in Sattahip, only days prior. However, upon thorough inspection, the real cause was determined to be far less sinister but equally concerning. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Deputy Mayor of Pattaya City, Manoch Nongyai, addressed the issue with reporters, clarifying that the pollution originated from the Bali Hai Pier area. The root of the problem lay in the city’s sewage treatment infrastructure. A sewer pipeline had abruptly collapsed, necessitating the temporary shutdown of the treatment plant for urgent repairs. The plant remained offline from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. for these emergency fixes. During this downtime, untreated wastewater overflowed into the bay, leading to the noticeable contamination. Nongyai reassured the public that the treatment plant resumed its normal operations soon after the repairs were completed, and measures are now in place to prevent such incidents from recurring. While the immediate crisis has been managed, the event highlights an ongoing issue regarding sewage management in Pattaya. The city is a major tourist destination, with millions visiting each year, thus clean and safe waters are a top priority. The authorities are now focused on bolstering the sewage system's resilience to prevent future mishaps. Residents and visitors alike will be monitoring the authorities' next steps closely, ensuring that the pristine image of Pattaya Bay is quickly restored and maintained. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin's Indictment Could be Delayed Again Due to Hospitalisation File photo courtesy: Siam Rath Warong Dechgitvigrom, chairman of the Thai Pakdee Party, has suggested that former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra might use illness as a reason to avoid facing indictment in a lese majeste case. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329925-thaksins-indictment-could-be-delayed-again-due-to-hospitalisation/

Warong Dechgitvigrom, chairman of the Thai Pakdee Party, has suggested that former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra might use illness as a reason to avoid facing indictment in a lese majeste case. According to Warong's Facebook post on Sunday, he received information from a reliable source that Thaksin was hospitalized on Saturday night. Warong speculated that Thaksin's hospital stay could serve as grounds for him not reporting to public prosecutors on Tuesday, when he is scheduled to appear in the Criminal Court for arraignment in the lese majeste case. The Office of the Attorney-General has ordered Thaksin to appear in court on Tuesday over alleged remarks made in a 2015 interview with a South Korean newspaper in Seoul. Warong stated, "I received information from a reliable source that Thaksin was hospitalized last night. Therefore, I wish to inform the public. The source informed me this morning that Thaksin was hospitalized last night [Saturday]. It remains unclear how long he will remain in the hospital, but I believe this is related to his impending indictment on June 18." On May 29, Thaksin failed to report to prosecutors, citing a Covid-19 infection, which led the attorney-general to postpone his indictment to June 18. "Although the appointment is scheduled for June 18, he has been hospitalized. This indicates that he intends to avoid indictment and will certainly not appear, citing his hospitalization," alleged Warong. File photo courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Poised to Make History with Marriage Equality Bill File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand is on the verge of a momentous milestone with the impending approval of the Marriage Equality Bill. This legislation, which is set for its final round of Senate voting later this month, has the potential to make Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to recognise and uphold marriage equality. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329924-thailand-poised-to-make-history-with-marriage-equality-bill/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand is on the verge of a momentous milestone with the impending approval of the Marriage Equality Bill. This legislation, which is set for its final round of Senate voting later this month, has the potential to make Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to recognise and uphold marriage equality. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has long championed the cause, promising that Thailand would become a safe haven for the LGBTQ+ community. The bill seeks to amend the existing marriage laws, ensuring that same-sex couples enjoy the same rights and protections as heterosexual couples. The journey to this moment began in 2001 with a proposed law by Interior Minister Purachai Piamsomboon. Despite initial setbacks, including rejection from then-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, the movement gained momentum in 2019 and has continued to progress since. By 2022, both civil partnership and marriage equality bills were approved by the House of Representatives, only to be halted by the dissolution of parliament ahead of last year's general election. In December, four marriage equality bills were consolidated into a single, comprehensive proposal by a House committee. This consolidated bill passed the House on March 27 and passed its first Senate reading on April 2. Currently, it is under review by a 27-member committee of senators, civil society members, and ministers. A final Senate vote is slated for June 18. If approved, the law will grant same-sex couples a wide range of rights, including adoption, estate management, and access to state welfare benefits. The bill also introduces gender-neutral terminology and will apply to foreign LGBTQ+ individuals seeking to register their marriage in Thailand. Once ratified, the bill will take effect 120 days after its publication in the Royal Gazette. This landmark legislation is expected to bolster Thailand's reputation as a progressive nation and a global supporter of LGBTQ+ rights. There are, however, calls for further amendments to ensure inclusivity, such as revisiting terms related to parental roles and addressing the recognition of gender identity. Despite these pending adjustments, the overarching impact of the bill remains a significant step forward for equality in Thailand. -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Tourism Industry Slumps: Urgent Reforms Needed Picture courtesy: Kapook Thailand's tourism industry has hit a significant roadblock, plummeting 11 places in the latest World Economic Forum (WEF) Travel and Tourism Development Index, a call for urgent reforms and innovation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329923-thailand-tourism-industry-slumps-urgent-reforms-needed/

Picture courtesy: Kapook Thailand's tourism industry has hit a significant roadblock, plummeting 11 places in the latest World Economic Forum (WEF) Travel and Tourism Development Index, a call for urgent reforms and innovation. Thailand, which recorded a modest 1.5% growth in the first quarter of 2024, saw its position drop from 36th to 47th in the WEF index, sending ripples through the country's travel and hospitality sectors. Industry leaders are now urging immediate and comprehensive action to address the decline. The WEF index is a comprehensive assessment of a nation's travel and tourism industry, examining sustainability, socioeconomic, and environmental factors. It consists of five pillars: Business Environment, Safety and Security, Health and Hygiene, Human Resources and Labour Market, and ICT Readiness. Sandy Liw, General Manager of InterContinental Khao Yai Resort, underscored the need for infrastructure improvements, especially in lesser-known areas. "The government should consider upgrading and expanding transportation infrastructure, including airports, roads, and public transit systems, to improve accessibility and convenience for tourists. Remote areas like Khao Yai, a beautiful yet underexplored destination, would benefit greatly from such enhancements." Liw highlighted that new highways or high-speed trains could significantly boost accessibility and tourism in remote areas. Sukamal Mondal, Area General Manager for Amari Bangkok and Shama Properties Bangkok at Onyx Hospitality Group, views the drop in ranking as an urgent call to action. "This report is a wake-up call to enhance our efforts in improving Thailand’s tourism appeal. While it's a setback, it presents an opportunity for stakeholders to collaborate and innovate to regain our standing." Mondal emphasised the importance of basic infrastructure improvements, such as upgrading transportation networks and modernising accommodation facilities. He also advocated for stronger public-private partnerships to tackle existing challenges and foster innovative solutions. Anne Arrowsmith, General Manager at 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai, urged a more strategic approach to regional tourism. "Regional tourism needs more focus, especially in terms of increasing and diversifying international flight arrivals. Chiang Mai, for instance, has seen a surge in hotel supply, but inbound flights haven't yet reached pre-Covid levels." Arrowsmith suggested that hosting major international events could elevate Thailand's profile. "Securing key sporting events could greatly enhance the country's appeal. Just look at what F1 did for Singapore and how Saudi Arabia is boosting its appeal through golf and tennis events." Immediate and targeted action from the government and industry stakeholders is crucial to reviving Thailand's tourism sector and reclaiming its position on the global stage. -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

No Link Found Between Cannabis Decriminalisation and Psychiatric Cases File photo courtesy: Daily News Professor Panthep Puapongphan, Dean of the College of Oriental Medicine at Rangsit University, addressed recent concerns regarding the alleged increase in psychiatric patients following the decriminalisation of cannabis on June 9, 2022. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329922-no-link-found-between-cannabis-decriminalisation-and-psychiatric-cases/

File photo courtesy: Daily News Professor Panthep Puapongphan, Dean of the College of Oriental Medicine at Rangsit University, addressed recent concerns regarding the alleged increase in psychiatric patients following the decriminalisation of cannabis on June 9, 2022. His comments challenged claims that this legal change has led to a surge in psychiatric issues. Prof. Panthep explained that comparing psychiatric patient numbers post-decriminalisation with those from the lockdown year of 2021 is misleading. The Covid-19 pandemic naturally caused fluctuations in psychiatric patient numbers and hospital visits, independent of cannabis legislation. The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) supports this view. Their data shows that the number of people receiving psychiatric services in 2023 (2.9 million) is similar to pre-Covid levels in 2019 (2.8 million) and even lower than in 2018. This evidence disputes the notion that a rise in psychiatric patients is directly linked to cannabis decriminalisation. Prof. Panthep also highlighted a decrease in the proportion of psychiatric patients related to methamphetamine and other drugs since cannabis was decriminalised. According to the Ministry of Public Health, drug rehabilitation cases have consistently dropped from 2021 to 2024, averaging a reduction of 26,705 cases each year. These trends challenge the narrative that cannabis decriminalisation has exacerbated psychiatric issues. “The data clearly shows that the number of psychiatric patients has not increased due to cannabis decriminalisation. In fact, we see a reduction in cases related to other, more harmful substances.” Effective law enforcement and thoughtful regulation, rather than reclassifying cannabis as an illegal narcotic, are crucial for addressing substance abuse problems, emphasised Prof. Panthep. He believes that reverting cannabis to an illegal status would not tackle the root causes of substance abuse and could potentially miss out on the benefits of regulated cannabis use. “We need to focus on effective policies and regulations that manage cannabis use responsibly, rather than reverting to outdated classifications. This approach can help us better tackle substance abuse issues.” -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian Man Arrested in Phuket Over 50 Stolen Coral Rocks Picture courtesy: MGR online Police in Phuket have detained a Russian man accused of stealing more than 50 pieces of coral rock from the sea. The arrest took place yesterday following a coordinated effort between local police and tourist police. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329921-russian-man-arrested-in-phuket-over-50-stolen-coral-rocks/

Police in Phuket have detained a Russian man accused of stealing more than 50 pieces of coral rock from the sea. The arrest took place yesterday following a coordinated effort between local police and tourist police. Officers tracked down 46-year-old Alexsandr Krasilov outside the Siberyak restaurant in Rawai. Krasilov was taken into custody for illegally removing coral rocks from the sea, presumed to be used as decorative features outside the eatery. Authorities have not confirmed whether Krasilov owns or runs the restaurant, nor the specific times and places the coral was taken. Krasilov has been charged under Section 7 of the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act 2019, which outlaws possession of protected wildlife. The arrest involved Lieutenant Colonel Channarong Rodthongdee from the SWAT TAT 3rd Battalion Investigation Division, along with expert fisheries officer Nares Chuphung. Officials from the Phuket Marine Resource Conservation Centre and the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division also took part in the operation. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Macau Casino Company Considers Major Investment in Thailand’s Entertainment Sector File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a move that could revolutionise Thailand's entertainment landscape, MGM China Holdings recently indicated its interest in making a significant investment in the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329920-macau-casino-company considers-major-investment-in-thailand’s-entertainment-sector/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a move that could revolutionise Thailand's entertainment landscape, MGM China Holdings recently indicated its interest in making a significant investment in the country. This potential expansion, revealed by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), comes as part of MGM's broader strategy to attract more Thai tourists to Macau and potentially establish an entertainment complex in Thailand. The announcement followed a high-level meeting between TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool and MGM China Holdings Chairperson Pansy Ho. During the meeting, the parties discussed ways to boost tourism between Thailand and Macau and explored MGM's investing in Thailand’s emerging entertainment sector. “An investment from a global giant like MGM would significantly enhance Thailand’s appeal to international markets,” said Thapanee. “This could particularly attract tourists from China, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.” Thailand is in the process of drafting new laws and regulations to accommodate entertainment complexes, including legal casinos. Thapanee said that discussions with MGM could lead to collaborations that boost Thailand’s tourism competitiveness via innovative attractions and activities. The Thai tourism sector faces a challenging target of generating 2.4 trillion baht over the next seven months to meet its annual goal of 3.5 trillion baht. The sector has collected only 1.1 trillion baht in the first five months of this year, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Iwan Dietschi, Senior Vice-President of Hospitality at MGM China, confirmed Thailand’s importance to MGM's strategy. “Thailand is a top priority market for us, representing the largest group of visitors from Southeast Asia and the fastest growing market,” he said, noting a 30% year-on-year increase in Thai visitors to MGM hotels in 2024. MGM has even stationed a sales representative in Thailand to further develop this market. Meanwhile, MGM China is participating in the Experience Macao Roadshow in Bangkok, organised by the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO). The event, held at CentralWorld, aims to boost Thai tourism to Macau. According to MGTO, Thai tourists were the fifth-largest group of visitors to Macau in the first five months of 2024. Galaxy Entertainment Group (GEG), another major player in Macau, also participated in the roadshow, promoting its luxury hotels to high-spending Thai visitors. Samantha Lyu, Senior Manager for Media Services at GEG, noted a significant recovery in Macau’s tourism driven by Chinese tourists, with GEG reporting a 50% year-on-year revenue growth in the first quarter and plans to open a new office in Bangkok. It remains to be seen how MGM’s potential investments and collaborative efforts could reshape Thailand's tourism and entertainment sectors.

PM Tests Positive for Covid-19, Set to Return Wednesday Srettha Thavisin. FIle photo courtesy: Wikipedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has tested positive for Covid-19 and is advised to rest until next Wednesday, June 19. The Prime Minister's Office confirmed the diagnosis late last night, revealing that Srettha has been feeling unwell since Friday, June 14. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329919-pm-tests-positive-for-covid-19-set-to-return-wednesday/

Srettha Thavisin. FIle photo courtesy: Wikipedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has tested positive for Covid-19 and is advised to rest until next Wednesday, June 19. The Prime Minister's Office confirmed the diagnosis late last night, revealing that Srettha has been feeling unwell since Friday, June 14. Health Concerns and Precautions According to Chai Watcharong, the spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, Srettha consulted a doctor who confirmed the Covid-19 infection. The physician has recommended he rest and isolate to prevent further spread of the virus. Srettha expressed regret over any possible exposure to those he has met and urged them to undergo testing if they exhibit symptoms. Upcoming Constitutional Court Ruling Coincidentally, the Prime Minister faces a crucial court ruling on Tuesday, June 18, regarding an impeachment lawsuit filed by 40 senators. The Constitutional Court might order his suspension, which could prevent him from addressing the House of Representatives on the 3.75 trillion baht 2025 budget legislation scheduled for the following Wednesday. Potential Interim Leadership Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai may serve as acting prime minister if the court orders Srettha's suspension. Known as a close associate of Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra, Phumtham may also have to address the House on the 2025 budget bill if Srettha remains indisposed. Allegations of Constitutional Violations The impeachment case alleges that Srettha violated the constitution and ethical standards by appointing Pichit Chuenban, a former lawyer for Thaksin, as a minister. Chuenban, sentenced to jail in the past for attempted bribery and contempt of court, has since resigned under pressure. Additional Legal Battles on the Horizon The Constitutional Court is also deliberating two other significant cases on June 18. One involves the potential dissolution of the Move Forward party for allegedly undermining national rule by advocating changes to the lese majeste law, Section 112 of the Criminal Code. The other case questions the constitutionality of the triple-tiered election of 200 senators nationwide. These legal battles highlight a critical period for Thailand's political landscape, with the outcomes likely to have significant ramifications. -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

New COVID Sub-variant KP.2 on the Rise in Thailand File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand is witnessing a swift rise in cases of the COVID-19 KP.2 sub-variant, a mutation overtaking the previously prevalent JN.1 strain. Dr Yong Poovorawan, leading the Centre of Excellence in Clinical Virology at Chulalongkorn University, highlighted the situation on his Facebook page earlier today. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329918-new-covid-sub-variant-kp2-on-the-rise-in-thailand/

Thailand is witnessing a swift rise in cases of the COVID-19 KP.2 sub-variant, a mutation overtaking the previously prevalent JN.1 strain. Dr Yong Poovorawan, leading the Centre of Excellence in Clinical Virology at Chulalongkorn University, highlighted the situation on his Facebook page earlier today. “The KP.2 sub-variant, also known as FLi RT, is outcompeting the JN.1 strain, which had been dominant since late last year. While the current vaccines developed against the XBB.1.5 strain show limited effectiveness against this new mutation, it’s crucial not to panic,” Dr Yong commented. Background checks reveal that KP.2, a mutation sprouting from JN.1, is more transmissible and shows an enhanced ability to evade immune responses. Despite these changes, the severity of symptoms remains comparable to previously circulating variants. Dr Yong Poovorawan. File photo: courtesy: Chulalongkorn University What’s causing concern among medical professionals is the rapid pace at which KP.2 is spreading. Dr Yong predicts it will become the dominant variant in the country shortly. “The World Health Organisation (WHO) has already asked vaccine manufacturers to adapt their formulations to tackle the JN.1 variant. However, the virus has swiftly mutated to KP.2, making it challenging for vaccine developers to keep up,” he noted. This rapid evolution underscores the agility of the coronavirus and the ongoing challenge for vaccine developers to adapt. The KP.2 sub-variant’s ability to bypass immunity highlights the pressing need for continuous surveillance and agile vaccine development. As health authorities race to adjust their strategies, the public is advised to maintain standard precautions – wearing masks, practising physical distancing and observing good hygiene. The coming days will be crucial as experts monitor the variant's impact and strategise measures to contain its spread effectively. Stay tuned for further updates and expert insights into this evolving situation. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 17 June 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1329917-thailand-live-monday-17-june-2024/

On June 16, 2024, a tragic incident marred the annual Rocket Festival at Ban Sang Bu Temple in Roi Et Province. The normally joyous event, which attracts numerous locals and visitors to Phon Sai Sawang Subdistrict, Phon Thong District, ended in disaster when a rocket explosion caused significant injuries among the attendees. Explosion strikes annual rocket festival in Roi Et: 30 injured Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329912-explosion-strikes-annual-rocket-festival-in-roi-et-30-injured/

MFP’s support for Pheu Thai sparks coalition speculation by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Move Forward Party (MFP) has recently shown a surprisingly empathetic stance towards the ruling Pheu Thai Party, sparking accusations that their previous antagonism may have been an act. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329844-mfp’s-support-for-pheu-thai-sparks-coalition-speculation/