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Tensions within Thailand's current ruling coalition surfaced today, as the Ruam Thai Sang Chart party, led by former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, expressed discontent over being denied a key defence portfolio in the latest cabinet reshuffle. The party, supposedly miffed by a decision taken largely by Pheu Thai, the core coalition partner, has sparked a fresh bout of infighting amidst Thailand's volatile politics. Sources close to the matter have hinted at the frustrations within the Ruam Thai Sang Chart, the coalition's fourth largest partner. The party had eyed control over the critical defence portfolio which entails jurisdiction over the army, navy, and air force. However, the decision by Pheu Thai, headed by Thaksin Shinawatra, to keep the portfolio within its own ranks led to disgruntlement soaring within Prayut's party ranks. Adding to the volatility, the expected appointment of Nattapon Nakpanich, a close associate of Prayut, as deputy defence minister didn't materialise. This denied the Ruam Thai Sang Chart an anticipated foothold in the ministry's affairs, causing further ire among its members. The friction has seemingly intensified with the abrupt resignation of Krisada Chinavicharana, a former Ruam Thai Sang Chart deputy finance minister. Krisada stepped down in protest after a reshuffle robbing him of five of the six agencies under his purview, another perceived slight to Prayut's faction. These developments hint at a power struggle keeping the coalition partners on their toes. Thaksin's alleged desire to monopolise the finance portfolio with his Pheu Thai party members hints at the underlying tensions rapidly mounting within the coalition. It's crucial to note that Thaksin and Prayut, despite deep-rooted differences, had purportedly struck a "secret deal" that led to the formation of this unusual bedfellow coalition. Reports suggest that a deal allowed Thaksin to escape a royal pardon-curtailed, one-year jail term, raising questions about the integrity of this fragile coalition. With growing disgruntlement and volatile undercurrents, the Thai governmental structure once again teeters on the edge. Allegiances drawn within political circles will undoubtedly enthral and shape Thailand’s politics in the coming weeks. File photo courtesy: Thay Rath -- 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Anutin Joins PM in Pot Stand, Urges Arrests of Foreigners Anutin Charnvirakul. Picture courtesy of Thai Rath In a bold move, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul orders the arrest of foreigners operating cannabis outlets illegally in Thailand. The widely criticised decision follows a government-led initiative to upscale the regulation of recreational marijuana trading in the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327011-anutin-joins-pm-in-pot-stand-urges-arrests-of-foreigners/

Anutin Joins PM in Pot Stand, Urges Arrests of Foreigners In a bold move, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul orders the arrest of foreigners operating cannabis outlets illegally in Thailand. The widely criticised decision follows a government-led initiative to upscale the regulation of recreational marijuana trading in the country. The Minister's proclamation comes in the wake of an edict from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, the controversial call to reclassify cannabis as a banned narcotic. This impending shift could lead to the closure of nearly 8,000 marijuana retail outlets. While Mr Anutin openly supports the introduction of legislation to regulate the industry, his admonition towards foreign nationals involved in illegal cannabis sale has stirred quite a buzz. "It's a tricky situation. We've got a burgeoning cannabis industry on one hand and the potential collateral damage of this ban on the other," shared Moira McKenzie, a long-time expat running an art café in Chiang Mai. A wave of unrest swept the nation following the Prime Minister's Wednesday pronouncement. Many see cannabis as a cornerstone of a progressive, modern Thailand. More so, it has imbued a profound change in Thailand’s conservative culture. The country made history in Asia by legalising medicinal marijuana usage back in 2018, and in 2020, the growth, trade and possession of limited quantities were decriminalised. Mr Anutin himself, in his prior role as Minister of Public Health, played a crucial part in these reforms. Nonetheless, embracing a diplomatic outlook, he stated, "As I am no longer the Minister of Public Health, it behoves me to allow the incumbent to make this decision. But we must offer concise information on why cannabis has more benefits than harm”. This sentiment is highly indicative of the complex state of affairs cannabis regulation has created within Thai politics. Anutins' stance on limiting ownership to Thai nationals only has been clear for some time, aiming to safeguard local traditional practitioners and keep the benefits within national borders. He stood firm on this, calling for a systemic sweep and arrest of international operatives. While medical bodies have warned about the adverse effects of recreational cannabis use, pro-cannabis lobbyists have hit back. In particular, the Cannabis Future Network is threatening protests and legal action against the government's perceived efforts to establish a cannabis monopoly. They are demanding scientific proof of cannabis causing harm to mental health. Growing public dissatisfaction and the legalisation advocates' outcry against the government might fuel a significant shift in Thailand's political alliance, ultimately shaping the country's stance on cannabis. Anutin Charnvirakul. Picture courtesy of Thai Rath -- 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Airways Confronts Social Media Storm Over Faulty Seats File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In response to a deluge of grievances on social media, Thai Airways has acknowledged the presence of malfunctioning seats on eight of its aircraft. They promise to have it sorted by July this year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327010-thai-airways-confronts-social-media-storm-over-faulty-seats/

In response to a deluge of grievances on social media, Thai Airways has acknowledged the presence of malfunctioning seats on eight of its aircraft. They promise to have it sorted by July this year. Representatives from Thailand's flagship carrier addressed the issue at a press conference earlier today. This comes on the back of a number of passengers taking to social media to complain about defective reclining seats on certain Thai Airways' flights. Chai Eamsiri, Thai Airways' Chief Executive Officer, confirmed that the faulty seats are aboard four of the Airbus A350s and four Boeing 777-200ERs. Amid assurances that the company has been proactive about resolving the issue, he revealed that on-going discussions with the plane manufacturers, Airbus and Boeing, are underway. Given that multiple airlines operate the same fleet, securing service slots and spare parts is proving time-consuming. In an immediate measure to ensure passenger comfort, Thai Airways are reassigning the affected aircraft to shorter routes with lighter passenger loads. This will allow them to isolate the faulty seats until the necessary repairs are executed. When queried about the delay in addressing the issue, the airline's management confessed to an initial ignorance about the exact planes plagued by the problem. Looking ahead, Eamsiri stated that if passengers discover more defective seats, on-site engineers will attempt immediate repairs. However, if these prove unfixable and no alternative seating is available, passengers will be eligible for compensation courtesy of Thai Airways. This move by Thai Airways to swiftly acknowledge and confront the defective seat issue is crucial in an era when social media can heavily influence a brand's reputation. For its legion of flyers, the promise of quick resolution offers some comfort amid the turbulence. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 11 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1327009-thailand-live-saturday-11-may-2024/

Future of Thai Cannabis at Stake: Activists Defend against Reclassification Proposal File photo for reference only. In a recent dispute that pits public health against political agendas, calls to reconsider the reclassification of cannabis as a type 5 narcotic illegal drug have emerged. These pleas come in response to Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's proposal to reinstate cannabis as a controlled substance. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326971-future-of-thai-cannabis-at-stake-activists-defend-against-reclassification-proposal/

Deputy PM sets sights on taking down influential figures in Phuket Photo courtesy of The Thaiger The Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister of Thailand, Anutin Charnvirakul, has launched a campaign to curb the influence of powerful Thai and foreign figures in Phuket. The announcement of this initiative was made to 550 officers at the Phuket Provincial Police Station, targeting criminal networks backed by these influential figures. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326982-deputy-pm-sets-sights-on-taking-down-influential-figures-in-phuket/

On the morning of May 9th, 2024, at 10 am, local law enforcement in Mueang Chachoengsao, Chachoengsao, were alerted about a fire at a large private marijuana warehouse. Huge Fire Breaks Out at Marijuana Farm Warehouse in Chachoengsao, No Casualties Reported Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326989-huge-fire-breaks-out-at-marijuana-farm-warehouse-in-chachoengsao-no-casualties-reported/ Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News

British Man Arrested in Bangkok Over Defamation Claims by Phuket Restaurant Picture courtesy: Khaosod A 21-years-old British man, known as Alexander, has been arrested in Bangkok for allegedly defaming a restaurant in Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326955-british-man-arrested-in-bangkok-over-defamation-claims-by-phuket-restaurant/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod A 21-years-old British man, known as Alexander, has been arrested in Bangkok for allegedly defaming a restaurant in Phuket. Alexander was taken into custody on May 9 by Crime Suppression Division officers from his residence near Wat Phraya Krai, Charoen Krung Road, following an arrest warrant issued by the Phuket Provincial Court last year. The charges revolve around "importing false information into a computer system to cause public damage". This was after a disagreement with an Italian restaurant owner over access rights to his accommodation in Phuket. Despite benefiting from the restaurant offering a convenient access passage, Alexander was asked to stop using it as the cost of maintaining the route shaped the restaurant's decision to reserve it for their customers only. This led to a conflict between Alexander and the restaurant. Later, the restaurant experienced a sharp decline in its Google customer review rating, dropping from 4.9 to 3.1. The restaurant attributed this fall to an influx of one-star reviews, allegedly posted by Alexander and his associates containing inaccurate and damaging statements about the restaurant. Upon discovering this, the restaurant owner lodged a complaint at Sakhu Police Station. After gathering evidence, the police issued an arrest warrant for Alexander, but he had meanwhile fled to Bangkok. He was recently detected and detained there, and is reportedly denying the charges against him. He has been transported back to Sakhu Police Station in Phuket for prosecution. -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fatal Accident in Chiang Mai Claims Five Lives Including Pregnant Woman Picture courtesy: Thai Rath A tragic car crash in Chiang Mai province led to the death of five people, including a pregnant woman carrying her unborn child. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326953-fatal-accident-in-chiang-mai-claims-five-lives-including-pregnant-woman/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath A tragic car crash in Chiang Mai province led to the death of five people, including a pregnant woman carrying her unborn child. The accident took place on Chiang Mai-Phrao Road on May 9. Involved vehicles were a hospital ambulance and a pickup truck, carrying four and six individuals respectively. The accident was reported to the Chiang Mai Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office around 5.20pm, after which authorities and rescue teams were immediately dispatched. Upon arrival, two highly damaged vehicles were found near a forest, with injured occupants. These injured individuals were immediately transferred to nearby hospitals while others had tragically died on the spot. The medical worker and ambulance driver were amongst the injured. The latter being severely hurt while seated and needed to be extricated using special tools. The medical worker reportedly endured limb deformities from the incident. Among the deceased are three people from the pickup truck and the pregnant woman with her fetus. The ambulance was transporting the pregnant lady to a hospital in Mueang district for childbirth when the accident happened. Initial reports suggest the pickup driver lost control on the wet road causing the disastrous collision. An official investigation is currently underway to verify the exact cause of the accident. -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Confirms 13 Cases of New Covid FliRT Sub-variants Picture credit: Thai Rath The constant evolution of the Covid-19 virus has led to the discovery of 13 cases of two new sub-variants of the JN.1 strain, known as KP.2 and KP.3, from the FliRT group, in Thailand. The head of the Department of Medical Sciences, Dr. Yongyuth Thammawut, revealed this news recently. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326952-thailand-confirms-13-cases-of-new-covid-flirt-sub-variants/

Picture credit: Thai Rath The constant evolution of the Covid-19 virus has led to the discovery of 13 cases of two new sub-variants of the JN.1 strain, known as KP.2 and KP.3, from the FliRT group, in Thailand. The head of the Department of Medical Sciences, Dr. Yongyuth Thammawut, revealed this news recently. These newly identified subvariants, part of a larger group that includes KP.1.1 and KS.1, demonstrate enhanced transmissibility and immunity resistance. Of these, nine cases of KP.2 have been reported in health zones 8, 10 and 13, whereas four cases of KP.3 were found in zones 4 and 13. Out of a total of 503 identified cases of JN.1 and its progeny, KP.2 makes up 1.79% and KP.3 accounts for 0.79%. Two hybrid versions, XDK and XDR, emerging from JN.1 and other variants, have also been discovered in health zones 1 and 11 respectively. The JN.1 variant and its offshoots, which have more than 30 spike protein mutations, are now primarily spreading in Thailand, resisting immunity while enhancing infectivity. This variant is a sub-variant of the globally spread BA.2.86, found in over 116 countries. Despite this, Dr. Yongyuth assures that the Department of Medical Sciences and associated laboratories are vigilantly monitoring Covid variants' mutations. A slight uptick in Covid cases over the past two weeks is deemed expected, as the disease is now endemic. He urged the public to follow health measures, such as wearing face masks in crowded areas and frequent hand washing, rather than panic. -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Doubts Over Thai Senatorial Election Raised Amid Possible Manipulation File photo for reference only. The upcoming Thai senatorial election has raised suspicion of potential manipulation. Concerns about the legitimacy of the voting results were voiced during a panel discussion by Associate Professor Prinya Thaewanarumitkul from Thammasat University’s Faculty of Law, predicting that the July 2 deadline for the Election Commission’s (EC) results is unlikely to be met. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326950-doubts-over-thai-senatorial-election-raised-amid-possible-manipulation/

File photo for reference only. The upcoming Thai senatorial election has raised suspicion of potential manipulation. Concerns about the legitimacy of the voting results were voiced during a panel discussion by Associate Professor Prinya Thaewanarumitkul from Thammasat University’s Faculty of Law, predicting that the July 2 deadline for the Election Commission’s (EC) results is unlikely to be met. This skepticism is due to the convoluted six-round voting process across district, provincial, and national levels. Criticism has also been directed at the EC’s stringent regulations on candidate introductions, as they possibly obscure transparency. Similarly, Ratchaphong Jamjirachaiyakul from human rights group iLaw, warns that these restrictions could increase chances of vote-rigging. Even outgoing Senator Seri Suwanphanon acknowledges the possible threat of election manipulation. In line with these allegations, the EC is investigating potential manipulation in the election process, specifically regarding a website that urges individuals to register as a group for the Senate election. Law-breakers face potential legal repercussions. Picture courtesy: Thairath Furthermore, the EC has advised potential candidates against sharing personal information and political viewpoints online, making clear that this includes social media platforms. Progressive Movement head, Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, has previously encouraged his followers to present themselves as Senate election candidates to prevent members close to the existing government from being selected. Amid these claims, the EC is investigating Thanathorn's website, www.senate67.com which currently accommodates 1,278 registered individuals. The elections at district, provincial, and national levels are scheduled for June, with the results expected on July 2. Approximately 100,000 individuals are predicted to participate in the Senate poll. -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pregnant Woman Alleges Sexual Assault by Thai Doctor Credit: Photo via YouTube ThaiRath A Thai doctor has been accused of sexually assaulting a pregnant woman during a prenatal consultation at a clinic in Samut Prakarn province, near Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326949-pregnant-woman-alleges-sexual-assault-by-thai-doctor/

Credit: Photo via YouTube ThaiRath A Thai doctor has been accused of sexually assaulting a pregnant woman during a prenatal consultation at a clinic in Samut Prakarn province, near Bangkok. The 25-year-old expectant mother, identified as Bee, and her 28-year-old husband have enlisted the support of non-profit group Saimai Survive, to help seek justice. During her visit to the clinic on April 27th, Bee alleges that the doctor, whose name has not been disclosed, instructed her to unbutton her trousers, before improperly touching her and posing inappropriate questions about her sex life. Bee's husband was unable to accompany her to the appointment due to work commitments. In her recount of the affair to Saimai Survive and the press on May 9, Bee detailed how the doctor, sans gloves, performed a second vaginal examination, with inappropriate touching and questionable justification. Post examination, the doctor suggested Bee looked tired and advised her to take saline before leaving. Subjected to inappropriate breast-touching, Bee was left confused when the doctor claimed his actions necessary for evaluating natural fertility and breast milk production. Advised to return for a milk duct check-up on May 25, Bee sought advice from friends, including pregnant and nurse acquaintances, who agreed the doctor's actions were highly unconventional and improper. Bee and her husband have now turned to Saimai Survive, both to take legal action against the doctor and to raise awareness about the potential for sexual misconduct during medical examinations. While a police report has not yet been filed, efforts are on to bring the concerned doctor to account. -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

BTS Skytrain Responds to Assault Allegations, Ensures Timely Action Picture courtesy: Wikimedia The company operating Bangkok's Skytrain services, Bangkok Mass Transit System Plc (BTSC), recently denied claims of slow reaction to an assault on a woman at Kheha station. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326948-bts-skytrain-responds-to-assault-allegations-ensures-timely-action/

Picture courtesy: Wikimedia The company operating Bangkok's Skytrain services, Bangkok Mass Transit System Plc (BTSC), recently denied claims of slow reaction to an assault on a woman at Kheha station. Sumit Srisantum, BTSC Chief Operating Officer, stated that their security team promptly responded to an alert about a misbehaving suspect known as Suthat. The suspect was first spotted at 9.38am, and the alleged assault occurred only 33 seconds later. By 9.39am, less than a minute after the incident, security officers were on the scene, but the suspect managed to escape. A guard returned to the scene at 9.40am to help the victim and report the crime to the police. The suspect was apprehended within hours of the press conference later that day. Approximately 4,500 CCTV cameras across 60 stations assisted in the speedy arrest. The 26-year-old suspect confessed to being intoxicated during the incident. The victim, who works nearby, stated that despite calling for help, aid only arrived once another passenger scared off her attacker. Further developments saw the victim and her family meeting with Police Colonel Nopphadon Changruean to discuss the case. The incident has left the victim feeling scared of going out alone and weakened her trust in the city's Skytrain system. -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Worker's Heroic Act Ends Tragically in Map Ta Phut Fire Picture courtesy: Facebook ZOOM Rayong ซูมระยอง A 36-year-old employee's heroic attempt to shut a tank valve before a gasoline explosion cost him his life at a fire in Map Ta Phut, Rayong province. The incident led to several injuries, with the fire battled for over eight hours. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326945-workers-heroic-act-ends-tragically-in-map-ta-phut-fire/

Picture courtesy: Facebook ZOOM Rayong ซูมระยอง A 36-year-old employee's heroic attempt to shut a tank valve before a gasoline explosion cost him his life at a fire in Map Ta Phut, Rayong province. The incident led to several injuries, with the fire battled for over eight hours. The fire broke out during maintenance work on a solvent tank. Four employees, including the deceased Nopporn Ruammah, were assessing the level of a chemical named Cynoplus when an explosion occurred following a smoke signal. Kalchai Thepwarachai, Deputy Governor of Rayong, and top officials from the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand and the SCG, Cement Thai holdings Co., Ltd., addressed the incident, which took place around 10:45 am on May 9. The four employees were inspecting an 8,000 cubic metre tank that contained Cynoplus. While the cause of the explosion is yet unclear, it led to one death and three injuries. Two firefighters were also hurt during the response. The fire reignited due to residual heat after initially being put out at noon but was finally contained by 6 pm. Company CEO Tharmsak Sethaudom assured that the chemical tanks' temperature is being watched to avoid a relapse and voiced the company's commitment towards a thorough investigation and ensuring community safety. The company also promised support for the deceased employee's family, including funding his children's education up to degree level and covering medical expenses for injured employees and firefighters. Residents, initially evacuated to a nearby school, have begun returning home. Local areas have been declared as disaster zones to ensure effective emergency assistance. -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Austrian Man Detained for Overstaying Visa by 920 Days Picture courtesy: maharasadorn Immigration police have arrested an Austrian national in Buriram for overstaying his visa by a whopping 920 days. The arrest was presided over by police commander Piyanan Totosakulwong, deputy police commander Manuwat Gosanan, and led by investigator Wisut Suwanphaisit. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326944-austrian-man-detained-for-overstaying-visa-by-920-days/

Picture courtesy: maharasadorn Immigration police have arrested an Austrian national in Buriram for overstaying his visa by a whopping 920 days. The arrest was presided over by police commander Piyanan Totosakulwong, deputy police commander Manuwat Gosanan, and led by investigator Wisut Suwanphaisit. The suspect identified as Mr Harald, aged 48, was charged with residing in the Kingdom of Thailand without a valid visa as per section 81 of the Immigration Act, 1979. This arrest comes as a step towards strengthening policy under the leadership of Police Major General Itthipol Itthisaratchai, particularly aimed at high-risk immigrants and suspicious individuals. The investigation was initiated based on local residents' tips about the harmful and destructive behavior of an alien, identified as Mr Harald. The suspect, who is suspected of being mentally unstable and a threat to society, did not have a fixed address and frequently stayed in hotels. On 8th May 2567 BE (2024 CE), he was found residing in room 210 of a certain resort in Isan, Buriram. Upon arrival, the arresting team identified themselves as immigration officers and asked to inspect his passport, which he was unable to present. However, he showed them a duplicate on his mobile phone which confirmed his entry into Thailand on 9th February 2560 BE (2017 CE) and his permission to stay till 31st October 2564 BE (2021 CE). Consequently, Mr Harald was informed of his charge of overstaying by 920 days, which he admitted. After legal processing at Buriram police station, he was told that, after his case was completed, he would be deported and blacklisted from entering Thailand for ten years. -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe