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Grilling it illegally: Immigration cops catch foreign ‘meat’ deliverers by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of tvpoolonline Immigration police in Samut Prakan arrested three foreign nationals operating an illegal grilled pork delivery business. The suspects were caught preparing pork, vegetables, and dipping sauces for delivery to customers, violating laws prohibiting foreigners from competing with Thai workers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339035-grilling-it-illegally-immigration-cops-catch-foreign-‘meat’-deliverers/

Immigration police in Samut Prakan arrested three foreign nationals operating an illegal grilled pork delivery business. The suspects were caught preparing pork, vegetables, and dipping sauces for delivery to customers, violating laws prohibiting foreigners from competing with Thai workers. Yesterday, September 24, Police Colonel Sumet Janwongpitak, the superintendent of the Samut Prakan Immigration Office, led a team to inspect a property in Bang Phli Yai, Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan. The property had been reported for noise disturbances at night and suspected illegal activities. It was found that three foreign individuals were running a grilled pork delivery service without proper work permits. The inspection revealed the suspects matched the descriptions provided by the informants. They were in the process of preparing various items for their grilled pork business, including pork, vegetables, dipping sauces, charcoal, and grilling equipment. These items were being prepared for home deliveries to customers who had placed orders, reported KhaoSod. The business was being run out of a rented two-storey house. The ground floor was used for preparation and storage, with blue ice boxes containing pork and vegetables. The upper floor served as living quarters for the suspects. Police arrested the three individuals and charged them with violating the Immigration Act of 1979 and the Foreign Workers Management Decree. In related news, an Indian restaurant in South Pattaya found itself at the centre of a legal storm after immigration officers discovered the owner was employing foreign workers without valid work permits. The shocking revelation came to light during a surprise inspection led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Weerachai Thinkamut and Pol. Lt. Pramot Fuengfung, which unveiled serious legal violations. During the raid, the officers uncovered a concerning situation at the bustling eatery. Several Indian employees were visibly alarmed as their documents were scrutinised, only for it to be confirmed that none of them held valid work permits. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of tvpoolonline Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-25

Marriage equality approved, LGBTQA+ couples to wed in 120 days by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ บางกอก ไพรด์ King Rama X yesterday approved the Marriage Equality Bill allowing LGBTQA+ couples in Thailand to officially marry in 120 days after the approval. The movement to allow LGBTQA+ couples to legally register their marriages in Thailand began 23 years ago, in 2001, when former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was in office. However, Thai society had not yet widely recognised the LGBTQA+ community at that time, leading to the idea being quickly abandoned. Numerous efforts have since been made by both LGBTQA+ members and various political organisations. In 2022, Thanyawat Kamonwongwat, an MP from the now-dissolved Move Forward Party (MFP), submitted the draft for a same-sex marriage bill. Discussion and consideration of the bill were delayed for an extended period. In the interim, the government introduced the Partnership Act, which allowed LGBTQA+ couples to register their partnerships. However, the Act did not fully address their needs, as it did not grant the same rights as those afforded to male-female couples. Finally, the Marriage Equality Bill was approved by both MPs and senators on June 18 of this year. It was then forwarded to the Cabinet for royal endorsement, and King Rama X officially approved the Act yesterday, September 24, as announced in the Royal Gazette. The same-sex marriage law will come into effect 120 days after this announcement. As a result, LGBTQA+ individuals will be able to officially register their marriages next year. Following the official approval, former PM, Srettha Thavisin, expressed his appreciation on his personal Twitter account yesterday. “Another important step for Thai society. The marriage equality law has been passed. Equality is tangible in Thai society. Gender diversity will finally be fully accepted. Congratulations!” PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra also extended her congratulations to the LGBTQA+ community in Thailand, sharing on her Twitter account. “To all the love… Congratulations to everyone in love. #LoveWins Thank you for the support from all sectors. Everyone fought together for this! #MarriageEquality.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-25

Heavy Flooding in Pai: Two Israeli Tourists Rescued from Resort Picture courtesy: 3PlusNEWS Heavy rainfall in Pai District, Mae Hong Son Province, caused the Pai River to overflow, flooding several areas and resorts. Two Israeli tourists were trapped in a resort but were successfully rescued by local authorities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339030-heavy-flooding-in-pai-two-israeli-tourists-rescued-from-resort/

Heavy rainfall in Pai District, Mae Hong Son Province, caused the Pai River to overflow, flooding several areas and resorts. Two Israeli tourists were trapped in a resort but were successfully rescued by local authorities. On September 25, 2024, at 6:00 a.m., the Pai District Chief reported that two Israeli tourists were stranded at riverside resorts due to the flooding. Under the direction of Mae Hong Son's Governor, rescue teams monitored the rainfall and river levels throughout the night. The floodwaters affected several villages, including Pong Village and Mae Yen Village. Rescue operations, led by local officials, quickly evacuated both residents and tourists to safe locations, including temples and the Pai District meeting hall. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries or casualties, reported 3plus news. By 6:00 a.m., water levels in the Pai River had started to recede, and the situation was expected to return to normal if no further rainfall occurred. Police and local authorities remain on high alert, continuing to monitor the river and assist those affected. Temporary accommodations, food, and clothing were provided to those displaced by the floods. The situation is being closely managed to prevent further incidents, especially if water levels rise again. Earlier warnings of severe flooding had been issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources, prompting officials to prepare for the crisis. Picture courtesy: 3PlusNEWS -- 2024-09-25

I’m hiring it: McDonald’s Thailand adds Texas Chicken crew to menu by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod McDonald’s Thailand is welcoming employees from Texas Chicken, which is set to close at the end of this month. Yesterday, September 23, McDonald’s Thailand’s Recruitment Facebook page posted a message specifically inviting Texas Chicken employees to apply for positions at McDonald’s, which operates over 230 branches across the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339029-i’m-hiring-it-mcdonald’s-thailand-adds-texas-chicken-crew-to-menu/

McDonald’s Thailand is welcoming employees from Texas Chicken, which is set to close at the end of this month. Yesterday, September 23, McDonald’s Thailand’s Recruitment Facebook page posted a message specifically inviting Texas Chicken employees to apply for positions at McDonald’s, which operates over 230 branches across the country. “To our friends at Texas Chicken, we are saddened to hear that Texas Chicken will cease its operations in Thailand. We want to offer our support and let you know that McDonald’s, a global restaurant brand, has plenty of opportunities available for everyone. “The skills you have can help you grow steadily with us. Bring your abilities to McDonald’s, and we will always welcome you. Join us in creating wonderful moments for our customers, no matter what position you hold. Come talk to us, we are waiting for you… From all of us at McDonald’s Thailand.” Texas Chicken employees facing the closure of their workplace are encouraged to consider the opportunities McDonald’s offers. This support from McDonald’s comes as a significant gesture to those who might be worried about their employment future following the shutdown of Texas Chicken at the end of this month. Texas Chicken employees are encouraged to reach out to McDonald’s for discussions about potential positions, reported KhaoSod. ORIGINAL STORY: Cluck’s up: Texas Chicken to fly the coop in Thailand after 9 years In a shock announcement, Texas Chicken has revealed that it will be shuttering all its outlets in Thailand by the end of this month, ending a nine-year run that has left fans of the crispy treat crestfallen. The bombshell was dropped on their official Facebook page, and there was no explanation for the abrupt exit. “It’s time to say goodbye to Texas Chicken after nine years of tasty memories,” the statement read, leaving fried chicken lovers devastated. Known as Church’s Texas Chicken in the States, this American fast food giant first spread its wings in San Antonio, Texas, before roosting its headquarters in Atlanta. Here in Thailand, it was the PTT Oil and Retail Business Plc (OR) that brought the beloved brand to the nation’s petrol stations, expanding its reach to community malls and beyond. The fast food chain was an integral part of OR’s strategy to diversify from its core oil business and into the ever-popular culinary market, reported Bangkok Post. Church’s Texas Chicken isn’t just clucking around in Thailand, the franchise boasts a presence in 26 countries worldwide. But alas, for Thai fans, the countdown to the last crunch has begun. So, mark your calendars and grab that final bucket, it’s your last chance to savour the finger-lickin’ goodness before Texas Chicken closes its doors for good in Thailand. The news of Texas Chicken’s closure will be good news to some parents worried about the welfare of their children. Today’s youth in Thailand face a startling reality. Their life expectancy may be shorter than their parents, largely due to health issues stemming from excessive junk food consumption. Over 39 million children under 5 are overweight, fueling a rapid obesity epidemic. A significant contributor is junk food marketing, targeting children who lack the cognitive skills to discern advertising intent. Marketers exploit this vulnerability, spending billions to shape future consumers. Fast food chains alone spent US$5 billion on youth advertising in 2019, according to CyberGhost. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-25

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 25 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339026-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-25-september-2024/

NEWS - 25-September.mp4 The Marriage Equality Bill has been royally endorsed and published in the Royal Gazette, making Thailand the third country in Asia, after Taiwan and Nepal, to legalize same-sex marriage. The new law will come into effect after 120 days on January 22nd. The founder of Bangkok Pride announced plans to host a large-scale wedding ceremony in Bangkok on that day, with over a thousand LGBTQ couples expected to participate. The first 3 million needy and disabled people — out of a total of 14.5 million — should have received their 10,000-baht handout under the government’s digital wallet scheme which takes effect today, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was due to take part in the official launch this morning. The prime minister emphasized today that the government's top priority is addressing the flood crisis, aiding victims, and rehabilitating communities in the north. . communities in Mae Sai and Chiang Rai, have been severely impacted, experiencing the worst flooding in 30 years. The government has suspended electricity fees for flood-affected residents in affected areas for this month. The cost of damage from the floods in the region is estimated at about 3 billion baht. The new cell emergency broadcast system, enabling weather warnings to reach all mobile devices in a target area, will be operational by the second quarter of next year. Testing will begin early next year. The English Premier League has launched an anti-piracy campaign in Thailand as the new football season begins. Along with Indonesia, Thailand is part of the initiative to protect Premier League broadcast rights and promote legal viewing. An estimated 38.7 million people in Thailand watch Premier League matches through legal channels. Across the region Singapore's former Transport Minister Iswaran yesterday pleaded guilty to receiving gifts while in office, in the first case of graft involving a minister. He was charged with receiving favours that include tickets to English Premier League soccer matches and to the Singapore Formula 1 Grand Prix, The story has gripped Singapore which prides itself on having a well-paid and efficient bureaucracy and strong governance. Todays Weather Rain across the north and north east Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy, heavy thunderstorms 27C degrees celsius Bangkok: cloudy with thunderstorms 31C Pattaya: Cloudy, 30C Phuket and the south: sunny partly cloudy 30C Hua Hin: Bright, Cloudy with a showers 30C Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-09-25 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5

Thailand's Landmark Move: Same-Sex Marriage Legalised FILE - Participants hold posters celebrating equality in marriage during the Pride Parade in Bangkok, Thailand, Saturday, June 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Thailand has made history by becoming the first country in Southeast Asia to legalise same-sex marriage. His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn signed the law into effect yesterday, as announced in the Royal Gazette, following its passage by parliament in June. This groundbreaking law will officially take effect in 120 days, paving the way for the first same-sex marriages in January. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339024-thailands-landmark-move-same-sex-marriage-legalised/

FILE - Participants hold posters celebrating equality in marriage during the Pride Parade in Bangkok, Thailand, Saturday, June 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Thailand has made history by becoming the first country in Southeast Asia to legalise same-sex marriage. His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn signed the law into effect yesterday, as announced in the Royal Gazette, following its passage by parliament in June. This groundbreaking law will officially take effect in 120 days, paving the way for the first same-sex marriages in January. This monumental decision positions Thailand alongside Taiwan and Nepal, making it the third place in Asia to grant marriage equality. The new legislation uses gender-neutral terms and extends adoption and inheritance rights to same-sex couples, providing them with the same legal status as heterosexual couples. This legislative victory is the culmination of years of activism and advocacy within Thailand's LGBTQ community. While the country is known globally for its tolerance, advocates have faced significant challenges in a society where traditional values still hold sway. Prior attempts to pass equal marriage laws were repeatedly thwarted, and LGBTQ people have continued to face discrimination in various aspects of daily life. According to local media, public opinion has been overwhelmingly supportive of equal marriage rights. However, the struggle for true equality is ongoing. "We've been waiting for a long time," said Apiwat Apiwatsayree, a prominent figure in Thailand’s LGBTQ community, who plans to marry his partner of 17 years, Sappanyoo Panatkool, once the law takes effect, reported AFP. Thailand’s former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who championed this issue before being ousted, played a crucial role in pushing the legislation through parliament. His successor, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, assumes office with the legacy of this landmark law, presenting a new chapter in Thailand's commitment to human rights. As Thailand prepares for 2024, the promise of equality and acceptance brings a fresh start for couples long awaiting their chance to legally marry, marking a significant step forward in the global fight for LGBTQ rights. -- 2024-09-25

Thailand promotes products with Piccadilly Circus campaign by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce has launched the Think Thailand Next Level branding campaign to promote Thai products and services. The event, led by Pichai Naripthaphan, took place at Piccadilly Circus in London, aiming to elevate Thailand’s image globally. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339022-thailand-promotes-products-with-piccadilly-circus-campaign/

Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce has launched the Think Thailand Next Level branding campaign to promote Thai products and services. The event, led by Pichai Naripthaphan, took place at Piccadilly Circus in London, aiming to elevate Thailand’s image globally. The campaign’s launch featured a gigantic digital billboard at Piccadilly Circus, a prominent public space and a central hub in London. This location is strategically chosen for its ability to reach approximately 2.08 million people weekly, including tourists, residents, and business professionals. Additionally, the campaign extends to advertisements on London buses, reaching around 2.5 million people monthly. The United Kingdom is considered one of Thailand’s top 10 strategic markets for enhancing the international perception of Thai products and services. London, often regarded as the capital of Europe, provides a significant platform for engaging an English-speaking audience. Pichai emphasised that this initiative would boost recognition and trust in Thai goods and services among UK consumers, tourists, importers, businesspeople, and the media. Piccadilly Circus, established in 1822, is a renowned cultural landmark in London, situated at the intersection of major streets like Regent Street and Piccadilly. This circular public space connects several key roads, drawing tourists from around the world throughout the year. The digital billboard, known as Piccadilly Lights, is Europe’s largest digital advertising screen. Global brands such as Coca-Cola, Hyundai, Samsung, and L’Oréal frequently advertise here, with the screen capable of displaying six different advertisements simultaneously. London’s bus network, one of the world’s largest, features over 9,300 buses operating on 700 routes. Annually, more than 2 billion passenger journeys are made using this extensive public transport system. During the campaign’s launch, Pichai, along with Commerce Ministry executives, influencers, and local journalists, boarded an open-top London Routemaster Bus from Selfridges to Piccadilly Lights. This journey aimed to promote Thailand’s new branding campaign and garnered significant attention from the public and tourists. The initiative is expected to enhance the image of Thai products and services in line with its objectives, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-25

Thailand Delays Automated Entry System for Foreign Tourists File photo for reference only Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Monday that the launch of the nation's highly anticipated automated entry system for foreign tourists has been postponed. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339015-thailand-delays-automated-entry-system-for-foreign-tourists/

Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Monday that the launch of the nation's highly anticipated automated entry system for foreign tourists has been postponed. Initially scheduled to roll out in December 2024, the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system's debut has yet to be determined due to ongoing coordination with relevant agencies. The ETA system aims to simplify immigration processes for international visitors by allowing tourists from 93 visa-exempt countries to register online before arriving in Thailand. These travellers would then receive a QR code upon registration, enabling them to pass through automated immigration gates effortlessly. The ETA system is part of Thailand's broader strategy to transition towards a fully electronic visa system. Despite the delay, the Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to implementing the ETA system. It stated that it is currently working closely with other government agencies to finalise the necessary details and ensure the system operates smoothly upon its eventual launch. The postponement comes as Thailand continues to recover from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, with tourism being a critical sector for the nation's economy. Streamlining entry procedures through tools like the ETA system is seen as crucial for attracting more visitors and boosting tourism revenue, reported The Nation. For now, travellers planning a trip to Thailand should stay informed by keeping an eye on updates from the Foreign Ministry and the Immigration Bureau. These agencies will provide the latest information on the ETA system's new launch date and any interim travel procedures that might be in place. In summary, while the introduction of Thailand's ETA system is delayed, its importance in facilitating smoother and faster entry for foreign tourists remains clear. The Thai government continues to work diligently to bring this system online, aiming to enhance the overall travel experience for millions of international visitors annually. TOP File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-25

10,000-Baht Grant for Over 30 Million People Unlikely This Year Picture courtesy: Kasikorn It is unlikely that over 30 million Thai citizens will receive a 10,000-baht grant under the second phase of the Pheu Thai-led populist handout scheme this year, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat stated yesterday (Sep. 24). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339011-10000-baht-grant-for-over-30-million-people-unlikely-this-year/

It is unlikely that over 30 million Thai citizens will receive a 10,000-baht grant under the second phase of the Pheu Thai-led populist handout scheme this year, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat stated yesterday (Sep. 24). Out of approximately 45 million Thais, around 14.5 million will start receiving the funds through their state welfare cards today (Sep. 25), with the remaining 30 million expected to wait until next year, according to Julapun. Among the 14.5 million recipients classified as "fragile," three million will get the 10,000-baht handout tomorrow, with others following daily, the deputy minister added. However, the second phase of the government's delayed handout, intended for over 30 million people, is unlikely to roll out in the fourth quarter of this year, which starts next month, Julapun noted. It is still uncertain whether the second phase will include the 10,000-baht digital wallet handout, as initially promised by the Pheu Thai party, the core of the coalition government, under the 2025 budget. Picture courtesy: Kasikorn -- 2024-09-25

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 25 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1339010-thailand-live-wednesday-25-september-2024/

Chaos at the Police Station Drunken Belgian Man Defecates and Dances in Underwear A 23-year-old Belgian man caused havoc at the Pak Kret Police Station after being detained for erratic behavior on a Bangkok expressway. The incident saw him engage in a series of disruptive acts, including defecating on the station floor and stripping down to his underwear to mock officers. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1338980-chaos-at-the-police-station-drunken-belgian-man-defecates-and-dances-in-underwear/

A 67-year-old woman was fatally attacked by a Pit Bull while cycling near her home in Chiang Rak Noi, Sam Khok District. The woman was found with severe bite wounds over most of her body. Despite efforts by emergency responders to revive her, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Pit Bull Attacks and Kills 67-Year-Old Woman Cycling in Pathum Thani Full Story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1339000-pit-bull-attacks-kills-67-year-old-woman-cycling-in-pathum-thani/

Activisit questions Paetongtarn’s resignation from family firms by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Political activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana has pressed the Election Commission (EC) to investigate whether Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra properly resigned from executive positions in 20 family-owned companies before her election. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338955-activisit-questions-paetongtarn’s-resignation-from-family-firms/

Political activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana has pressed the Election Commission (EC) to investigate whether Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra properly resigned from executive positions in 20 family-owned companies before her election. Ruangkrai questioned if Paetongtarn adhered to the Department of Business Development’s procedures when stepping down from roles in firms associated with her family. Failure to resign appropriately would violate Section 187 of the constitution, which prohibits ministers from holding over 5% of shares in a commercial firm or being employed by a private company. Ruangkrai also examined Deputy Interior Minister Sabida Thaised’s resignation from her executive post and shareholdings in a private firm following her appointment. He noted that Sabida, daughter of former Deputy Interior Minister Chada Thaised, appeared to have complied with the stipulated procedures, raising further questions about Paetongtarn’s case. Ruangkrai emphasised he was merely exercising his rights under Sections 41 and 50 of the constitution and respected the decisions made by independent public agencies. Last month, Ruangkrai petitioned the poll agency to investigate the prime minister’s status, questioning the date of the 38 year old PM’s resignation from the family companies. Paetongtarn was elected prime minister by the House of Representatives on August 16, succeeding Srettha Thavisin, who was dismissed from office by Thailand's Constitutional Court. In his petition, Ruangkrai asked the EC whether Paetongtarn had resigned from all executive roles in the family’s companies by August 15, and why those resignations were registered on August 19, three days post-election. Ruangkrai claimed Paetongtarn authorised a close aide to handle the resignation documents on August 15, just a day after the Constitutional Court dismissed Srettha from office. The documents were submitted to the Department of Business Development on August 19, reported Bangkok Post. “Paetongtarn gave her aide the authority to do this just one day after the Constitutional Court ruled to dismiss Srettha from office.” by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-24

Lawyer Warns Entire Paetongtarn Cabinet Faces Impeachment Risk Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, left, talks to Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra before making the policy statement at parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Paetongtarn appeared Parliament for the first time to lay out how her government envisions to improve the country. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) A lawyer has sounded the alarm that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's entire cabinet could face impeachment following a complaint regarding an incomplete policy statement delivered in Parliament on September 12. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338950-lawyer-warns-entire-paetongtarn-cabinet-faces-impeachment-risk/

Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, left, talks to Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra before making the policy statement at parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Paetongtarn appeared Parliament for the first time to lay out how her government envisions to improve the country. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) A lawyer has sounded the alarm that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's entire cabinet could face impeachment following a complaint regarding an incomplete policy statement delivered in Parliament on September 12. The warning was issued in a Facebook post by Mr. Paisarn Puechmongkol, a former assistant to Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan, and was reported by Naewna newspaper. The complaint alleges that the policy statement contravened Article 162 of the Constitution by failing to specify the sources of revenue to cover the proposed expenses. This shortfall, according to Paisarn, could potentially trigger impeachment proceedings by the Constitutional Court against all cabinet members. Paisarn described the current mood as panicked, with no clear decision yet on how to address the issue. He warned that if the policy statement is not amended to comply with constitutional requirements, the entire cabinet risks impeachment. The Ombudsman has a 60-day window to file a petition to Thailand's Constitutional Court, should this remain unresolved. Opinions are divided on how to move forward. Some believe the government should call another parliamentary session to amend the policy statement and align it with Article 162. Others argue that making such amendments would cause a loss of face and that the violation is not severe enough to result in impeachment. Paisarn described the situation as chaotic, noting that both domestic and international observers are questioning the longevity of the current government due to the constitutional controversy. Addressing the legal implications, Paisarn highlighted a critical oversight: it remains unclear whether a legal team has been appointed to tackle the issue and what actions, if any, are being taken to resolve it. This unresolved legal vulnerability continues to cast a shadow over the stability of Prime Minister Paetongtarn's cabinet. -- 2024-09-24

Freelancers in the frame: Thailand mulls welfare for all, even in the sex trade by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The government is contemplating extending welfare protections to freelance workers, including those in the sex industry, akin to those available to employees registered with the Social Security Fund (SSF), contingent on their payment of income taxes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338947-freelancers-in-the-frame-thailand-mulls-welfare-for-all-even-in-the-sex-trade/