webfact

A barber in the central province of Ayutthaya went viral on Thai social media for charging customers based on the size of their penis, rather than the length of their hair. Thai barber goes viral for pricing list based on penis size Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337811-size-matters-thai-barber-goes-viral-for-pricing-list-based-on-penis-size-video/ Photo via Channel 7

3 Thai police face sack for mistaking woman as drug suspect by Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek Three police officers in the northern province of Chiang Rai may face dismissal after mistakenly identifying a Thai woman as a drug suspect and attempting to arrest her, leading to a violent high-speed chase. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337783-3-thai-police-face-sack-for-mistaking-woman-as-drug-suspect/

Three police officers in the northern province of Chiang Rai may face dismissal after mistakenly identifying a Thai woman as a drug suspect and attempting to arrest her, leading to a violent high-speed chase. The 22 year old Thai woman filed a complaint with Mae Yao Police Station, stating that a group of men tried to abduct her on the night of September 2. The men, travelling in a white SUV, cut her off while she was riding her motorcycle home. One of the men exited the vehicle and tried to apprehend her but she managed to flee on her motorcycle. A high-speed chase ensued but the woman was eventually assisted by locals in the area. She maintained that she had no prior conflicts with anyone. The woman suspected that the group were police officers who mistook her for a criminal and attempted to arrest her. Her suspicions were confirmed when three police officers turned themselves in on September 9. One of the officers is a Police Senior Sergeant Major from Chiang Rung Police Station. He was formerly an investigating officer with the Chiang Rai Provincial Police. The officer explained that he and his two colleagues were tracking a drug suspect and mistaking the woman for the target. CCTV footage showed them following the woman and cutting her off. They decided to abort the operation and leave the scene when they saw locals helping the woman, as they did not want the public to become aware of their covert operation. The three officers also admitted to crashing their SUV into a parked car during the chase. The Commander of the Chiang Rai Provincial Police, Manop Saenakun, told the media that the officers must be punished severely as their actions were considered to be outside the scope of their duties. Manop stated that the three could face dismissal if Mae Yao Police Station officers find that their actions violated any serious laws. Channel 7 reported that the police officers in question attempted to offer the victim 100,000 baht to settle the case but the victim rejected the offer and insisted on pursuing the matter to the fullest extent. ORIGINAL STORY: Thai woman survives attempted kidnapping in Chiang Rai (video) A Thai woman issued a warning to other women after a group of men in an SUV stalked and attempted to kidnap her on a road in the northern province of Chiang Rai. The 22 year old woman shared security camera footage when she sought help from a resident in the Mae Yao district of Chiang Rai province. She posted the footage on the news Facebook page, J-moi v+ (เจ๊ม้อย v+), to gather more clues about the suspects and to issue a warning to others, particularly women travelling alone at night. The page shared her video on September 3 with a caption that read, “Women travelling alone at night must be aware of this incident. This woman was on her way home when a group of men attempted to abduct her. She decided to abandon her motorcycle and seek help from a resident. Anyone with useful information about the gang can contact the page.” The video shows the woman leaving her motorcycle and running into a resident’s house. She can be heard saying, “Please help. Those men tried to kidnap me.” ThaiRath shared another video of the incident, showing the white Toyota Fortuner SUV cutting in front of the victim while she was riding her motorcycle. One man then got out of the car and tried to approach the woman. Realising the danger, the woman sped away on her motorcycle. The man returned to the SUV, and the driver immediately chased after her. She shouted for help as she fled, and a resident came to her aid, causing the SUV to speed away from the scene. In an interview with ThaiRath, the victim said the incident took place at around 8pm on Monday, September 2. She explained that she had never had any conflicts with anyone and could not speculate on the gang’s motives. She suggested that the men might have been police officers who mistook her for someone else. The woman revealed that the high-speed chase lasted for only 30 metres before she was helped by residents. The victim stated that she filed a complaint at Mae Yao Police Station, and officers assured her that they would bring the gang to justice soon. by Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-10 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Heavy rain set to flood Ang Thong and Ayutthaya this week by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Heavy rain is expected to drench the Bangkok area this week, with imminent flooding forecasted for Ang Thong and Ayutthaya provinces. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337776-heavy-rain-set-to-flood-ang-thong-and-ayutthaya-this-week/

Heavy rain is expected to drench the Bangkok area this week, with imminent flooding forecasted for Ang Thong and Ayutthaya provinces. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) predicted rain for more than half of Greater Bangkok throughout the week, with particularly intense downpours anticipated on Sunday. The Hydro-Informatics Institute reported overflows from two main canals in Ayutthaya province. The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department issued warnings for potential floods in parts of Ang Thong and most areas of neighbouring Ayutthaya within the next 24 hours. The Chao Phraya River’s flow was recorded at 1,498 cubic metres per second on Sunday, September 8, according to the institute’s measurements. The Royal Irrigation Department stated that the water flow rate is still controllable. They noted that the Chao Phraya Barrage dam released 2,700 cubic metres per second during the significant flood of 2011. Meanwhile, former super typhoon Yagi has been downgraded to a low-pressure system after wreaking havoc and causing fatalities in the Philippines, Vietnam, and southern China, reported Bangkok Post. In related news, East Pattaya residents are once again feeling the brunt of the relentless rains. Mayor Poramet Ngamphichet and his team swooped into Chok Nimit 2 Village in Soi Boon Sampan 2, Khao Noi Community on Thursday, September 5, to assess the aftermath of severe flooding triggered by heavy rainfall on September 3. Ten households, submerged by the rising waters, received crucial survival kits and financial aid of 2,000 baht each. The Mayor acknowledged the area’s long-standing flood problems, owing to its low-lying nature. In other news, residents of Phayao province faced significant flooding, impacting homes, roads, and temples in the Ban Fang Min and Ban Mae Tam Muang Chum areas. Amidst the chaos, a well-meaning individual delivered 400 food and water packages, only to trigger a controversy due to miscommunication. The flood-stricken communities of Ban Fang Min, Moo 4, Dok Kham Tai subdistrict, Dok Kham Tai district, and Ban Mae Tam Muang Chum, Mae Tam subdistrict, Mueang district, were severely affected by flooding on September 4. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-10 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Anutin Backs Cannabis and Entertainment Complex Policies File photo courtesy: Sanook On 9th September, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, affirmed his support for the continuation of cannabis policies and the development of entertainment complexes, despite past reservations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337773-anutin-backs-cannabis-and-entertainment-complex-policies/

File photo courtesy: Sanook On 9th September, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, affirmed his support for the continuation of cannabis policies and the development of entertainment complexes, despite past reservations. Anutin, who leads the Bhumjaithai Party, spoke following a special Cabinet meeting aimed at setting government policies before presenting them to Parliament. In his remarks, Anutin emphasised the need for a stringent Cannabis Control Act to regulate the medical use of cannabis. He stated that discussions had taken place with former Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and relevant agencies to ensure focused regulation. "Our emphasis is solely on medical use," Anutin confirmed, stressing the importance of clarity and control in cannabis policies. Turning to the subject of entertainment complexes, Anutin threw his weight behind them, citing their potential to attract tourists, generate revenue, and create jobs. While he acknowledged that existing laws might need amending to facilitate these developments, he skirted around directly addressing his party's past opposition to gambling legislation. "We support projects that benefit the public and adhere to legal and moral standards," Anutin said, focusing on the broader benefits to Thailand's economy. Anutin also responded to questions about what appeared to be a shift in the party's stance on gambling laws. He refuted claims of a reversal, clarifying that the Bhumjaithai Party’s priority is to ensure any new policy benefits the national economy and aligns with ethical norms. He elaborated that the concept of an entertainment complex encompasses more than just casinos, including shopping malls, food centres, amusement parks, and concert venues to boost tourism. The conversation around these policies gained momentum after Chaichanok Chidchob, Secretary-General of the Bhumjaithai Party, previously voiced opposition on 13th August. Chaichanok had cited concerns about the impact on illegal gambling, unclear benefits to the state, and inadequate provisions for Thai workers. However, the endorsement of the project by Thaksin Shinawatra and its inclusion in Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's urgent policy agenda seemingly tipped the scales. Taking a unified stance, Anutin's recent statements align with the broader push to capitalise on tourism and economic growth through these projects. While challenges remain in balancing ethical concerns with economic ambitions, Anutin appears committed to steering the policies in a direction that garners wide-reaching benefits. -- 2024-09-10 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Police Officer Allegedly Demands Bribe and Sexual Favors from Arrested Student Picture via Thai Rath A disturbing case of police misconduct has come to light as a 22-year-old university student accused an officer from Thanyaburi Police Station in Pathum Thani, near Bangkok, of demanding a 10,000 baht bribe and sexual favours following her arrest for drunk driving. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337770-thai-police-officer-allegedly-demands-bribe-and-sexual-favors-from-arrested-student/

Picture via Thai Rath A disturbing case of police misconduct has come to light as a 22-year-old university student accused an officer from Thanyaburi Police Station in Pathum Thani, near Bangkok, of demanding a 10,000 baht bribe and sexual favours following her arrest for drunk driving. The female student reached out to the Pavena Foundation for Children and Women, detailing her harrowing experience. She and Pavena Hongsakul, the foundation’s founder, revealed that the officer involved held the rank of police lance corporal and was stationed at Thanyaburi Police Station. The ordeal began when the student collided with a sedan at approximately 11 PM on 30th August. While the other driver sought medical attention, she accompanied the police to the station, where the lance corporal conducted a breathalyser test revealing a blood alcohol level of 103 milligrammes percent. Admitting to having drunk with friends, she was then taken to a room without CCTV coverage. The officer allegedly offered to suppress her test results in exchange for 10,000 baht, leveraging the threat of imprisonment and a 20,000 baht fine. Frightened, she agreed. She was made to sign two documents, one real and one falsified, and was required to provide her home address and phone number. Later, the officer met her at an entertainment venue, encouraged her to drink, and coerced her into sexual activity in exchange for the genuine test result document. Despite complying, she never received the document. The officer even claimed he had never handed over such documents in past encounters. The student, traumatised and suffering from depression, spent three days in hospital following the incident. The officer's attempts to visit her condo after her discharge pushed her to seek help from the foundation. Superintendent Jirawat Piampinsate of Thanyaburi Police Station stated that the accused officer had a clean record over his two-year tenure. However, the officer has remained silent on the accusations. Jirawat pledged a thorough investigation to ensure justice and promised protection for the student to prevent any further harassment. This case underscores a significant abuse of power and highlights the urgent need for accountability and reform within the police force. -- 2024-09-10 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Hope Thailand Intervenes to Halt Dog Sacrifice Ritual in Nan Photo courtesy: Facebook page of The Hope Thailand Hope Thailand, a non-profit organisation dedicated to preventing cruelty to animals, has intervened to stop a ritualistic dog sacrifice in the northern province of Nan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337769-hope-thailand-intervenes-to-halt-dog-sacrifice-ritual-in-nan/

Photo courtesy: Facebook page of The Hope Thailand Hope Thailand, a non-profit organisation dedicated to preventing cruelty to animals, has intervened to stop a ritualistic dog sacrifice in the northern province of Nan. The disturbing tradition planned in Ban Huai Klaeb, Song Khwae district, was set for 3 PM on Sunday. However, thanks to timely action by Hope Thailand, the event was called off. The turn of events began when a concerned individual, identified only as Krit, uncovered the ritual plans via social media. Alarmed, Krit reached out to Hope Thailand, seeking assistance. The organisation swiftly fact-checked the report, confirming its authenticity. After validating the information, Hope Thailand’s official contacted the village headman, Sawat, urging him to halt the ritual, citing laws against animal cruelty. The official also involved the Livestock Development Office in Nan, arranging for a veterinarian to visit the village and reinforce the message. Responding promptly, the village headman convened a meeting with the village committee. They collectively agreed to “postpone” the ritual, marking a temporary victory for animal rights advocates. However, the situation has placed Krit’s family under significant pressure. The village committee demanded that Krit return from Lampang to explain his actions, causing concern for his and his parents' safety. Hope Thailand has sought help from Nan’s deputy governor, aiming to educate the villagers on the legal implications of such rituals. Hope Thailand’s officials are also planning a visit to Ban Huai Klaeb to discuss the issue further. The goal is to inform and educate the villagers about animal protection laws, fostering a community shift away from cruel practices. This intervention by Hope Thailand not only halted an immediate act of cruelty but also highlighted the importance of legal and moral action in protecting animals. The story underscores the critical role of community education and vigilance in preventing such practices in the future. -- 2024-09-10 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand-China high-speed rail project faces delays October By Pattaya Mail The project, which spans 250.77 km from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima and involves an investment of 179.4 billion baht, has seen some delays, particularly in two remaining contracts. BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Transport Minister, Surapong Piyachote, has announced progress in addressing the delays in the Thailand-China high-speed rail project. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337767-thailand-china-high-speed-rail-project-faces-delays/

The project, which spans 250.77 km from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima and involves an investment of 179.4 billion baht, has seen some delays, particularly in two remaining contracts. BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Transport Minister, Surapong Piyachote, has announced progress in addressing the delays in the Thailand-China high-speed rail project. He is set to discuss the issue with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, with plans to sign the construction contract for the Ayutthaya section by October 2024. The project, which spans 250.77 km from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima and involves an investment of 179.4 billion baht, has seen some delays, particularly in two remaining contracts. One of the key challenges is the impact on the Ayutthaya UNESCO World Heritage site. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has completed the Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) report and submitted it to UNESCO, addressing concerns by adjusting the construction plans, including reducing the height of structures from 19 meters to 17 meters. The route itself remains 1.5 km away from the heritage site, separated by the Pa Sak River, and any decision by UNESCO will not affect the project’s continuation. Two remaining contracts, covering the Ban Pho-Phra Kaew section (13.3 km) and the Bang Sue-Don Mueang section (15.2 km), are expected to move forward. Adjustments have been made to align with other projects, such as the high-speed rail connecting Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports. By Pattaya Mail Full story: PATTAYA MAIL -- 2024-09-10 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Tuesday 10 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337766-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-10-september-2024/

NEWS - 10-September.mp4 Local residents in Sukhothai have asked the government to step in to help resolve the floods in the area, which have been going on for over two months. Many villages have been cut off or badly flooded, More than 50 percent of phitsonulok are said to be flood Police are investigating two suspects accused of operating a fraudulent tour company and overseas employment agency. Authorities have received complaints from 10 victims, with total damages exceeding 20 million baht. So far, 150 victims have been identified, with some losing sums ranging from tens of thousands to millions of baht. The Transport Minister is requesting approval from Prime Minister Paetongtarn to finalize the first phase of the long-delayed Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project. Concerns have been raised over the location of the Ayutthaya Station, which is near a Unesco World Heritage site. A Heritage Impact Assessment of the construction plan has been completed and submitted to Unesco for review. The Transport Ministry has approved a series of projects aimed at enhancing maritime connectivity between krabi and phuket, , the aim is to improve the region's logistics infrastructure and promote tourism, two new piers will be constructed in Phuket and Krabi. The new facilities are expected to significantly reduce travel time and boost economic activity in the area. Completion is expected in 2027. Around the region North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said the country is now implementing a nuclear force construction policy to increase the number of nuclear weapons. He said North Korea must more thoroughly prepare its "nuclear capability and its readiness to use it properly at any given time. Singapore Foreign Minister met top Chinese officials yesterday during a two-day official visit to Beijing, both sides outlined hopes for a further deepening of the relationship. Todays Weather Storm yagi is still just north of thailand bringing torrential rain to Chaing Rai and the far north. Chiang Mai and the north: Rain 27C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thundershowers 33 Pattaya: Cloudy 32 Phuket and the south: Cloudy 31C Hua Hin: Cloudy, 33C. Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, 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 2024-09-10 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Jakrapob Penkair Tipped for Government Spokesperson Role On September 9, reports from Government House indicated that during the first official Cabinet meeting, set for September 17 at 10:00 AM, appointments for political positions, including ministerial secretaries and advisors, will be made. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337765-jakrapob-penkair-tipped-for-government-spokesperson-role/

On September 9, reports from Government House indicated that during the first official Cabinet meeting, set for September 17 at 10:00 AM, appointments for political positions, including ministerial secretaries and advisors, will be made. Many of these positions are expected to be filled by individuals who served under former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's government, although some ministries may see adjustments to ensure appropriateness. Each party is currently reviewing candidates. Among the appointments is the nomination for the role of spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office. Several candidates are under consideration, including Jakrapob Penkair, a former Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office in the government of former Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej, and a former spokesperson in Thaksin Shinawatra's administration. Jakrapob's name is reportedly a leading contender for the position. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-10 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Police Arrest 3 Drug Couriers with 45kg of Ice, 600,000 Meth Pills Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In the evening of September 9, police officers led by Pol. Maj. Gen. Worawit Yanajinda arrested three young drug couriers involved in trafficking methamphetamine and crystal meth (ice) into Bangkok. The suspects, identified as Mr. Nan (30), Mrs. Wannipa (28), and Ms. Jittrawi, also known as "Poo" (29), were apprehended with 600,000 meth pills and 45 kilograms of ice. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337764-police-arrest-3-drug-couriers-with-45kg-of-ice-600000-meth-pills/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In the evening of September 9, police officers led by Pol. Maj. Gen. Worawit Yanajinda arrested three young drug couriers involved in trafficking methamphetamine and crystal meth (ice) into Bangkok. The suspects, identified as Mr. Nan (30), Mrs. Wannipa (28), and Ms. Jittrawi, also known as "Poo" (29), were apprehended with 600,000 meth pills and 45 kilograms of ice. Authorities also seized two cars, a motorcycle, and four mobile phones at the scene, located in Tha It, Pak Kret, Nonthaburi. A second operation was conducted at a residence on Soi Ladprao 101 in Klong Chan, Bangkapi, Bangkok. The arrests were the result of an investigation launched on September 7, after police uncovered a major drug trafficking network. This group had been smuggling drugs into Bangkok and distributing them to youth and other individuals in the Ladprao area. The findings were promptly reported to the senior officers. Pol. Maj. Gen. Worawit then ordered an intensive investigation to track down the culprits. Authorities discovered that Ms. Poo had been transporting drugs from Pathum Thani to central Bangkok, with an escort vehicle driven by Mr. Bom (alias) and accompanied by Ms. May (alias). Their role was to check for police along the route. The police monitored the operation, leading to the arrest of Ms. Jittrawi in Tha It, where the drugs, valued at over 9 million baht, were found hidden in a vehicle. Soon after, Mr. Nan and Mrs. Wannipa, who were driving the escort vehicle, were arrested at a house in Soi Ladprao 101. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath During questioning, the suspects confessed to receiving payments ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 baht for each delivery. The escort drivers earned between 15,000 and 30,000 baht per trip. After each successful delivery, the leader of the operation would instruct them on where to pick up the next drug shipment, often in the outskirts of Bangkok. The group had carried out around four or five deliveries in total. All suspects were charged with possession of Category 1 narcotics (methamphetamine and ice) with intent to sell, a crime that poses significant risks to public safety and national security. Police are continuing their investigation to apprehend the leader of the drug operation, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-09-10 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Man Seeks Help After His 200,000 Baht Motorcycle Gets Stolen By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A 33-year-old Thai man in Pattaya is seeking help to track down thieves who stole his motorcycle worth over 200,000 baht from his residence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337760-pattaya-man-seeks-help-after-his-200000-baht-motorcycle-gets-stolen/

Pattaya — A 33-year-old Thai man in Pattaya is seeking help to track down thieves who stole his motorcycle worth over 200,000 baht from his residence. On September 8th, 2024, Mr. Kamol Hiransiri, 33, complained to The Pattaya News and provided CCTV footage to assist in tracking down the suspects responsible for the theft of his red and white Honda CRF 300 motorcycle. The theft occurred late at night at his home, located in the Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. After the theft, Mr. Kamol filed a complaint with the Nongprue Police Station and handed over the CCTV footage as evidence. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-09-10 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Historian Urges Thaksin To Stop Pulling Strings Behind PM FILE - Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left, hugs his daughter and newly elected Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra before the royal endorsement ceremony appointing Paetongtarn as Thailand's new prime minister at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Historian Attachak Satayanuruk from Chiang Mai University has called for Thaksin Shinawatra to cease his backstage political machinations concerning his daughter and newly-appointed Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337755-historian-urges-thaksin-to-stop-pulling-strings-behind-pm/

FILE - Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left, hugs his daughter and newly elected Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra before the royal endorsement ceremony appointing Paetongtarn as Thailand's new prime minister at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Historian Attachak Satayanuruk from Chiang Mai University has called for Thaksin Shinawatra to cease his backstage political machinations concerning his daughter and newly-appointed Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The comments come in light of ongoing lawsuits filed against Thaksin and Paetongtarn, seeking to end what is being described as a shared, unconstitutional power dynamic. Attachak expressed concerns that Thaksin, the de facto Pheu Thai boss, has not only acted as the puppet master but has also brought unnecessary attention to himself in the political sphere. "It's time Thaksin stopped pulling the strings and allowed his daughter to govern independently if he truly cares about the country's future," said the historian. Thaksin has allegedly convened a confidential meeting with coalition party leaders at his residence on August 14, just hours after the Constitutional Court ousted Thailand's former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. These actions are seen as Thaksin's continued influence over ministerial decisions, a manoeuvre deemed illegal due to his prior indictment and permanent political disqualification. Attachak criticised Thaksin for his inability to discern trustful allies from foes, leading to an alliance with previous adversaries and forming a controversial coalition government. This coalition includes ultra-conservative factions such as the military-backed Ruam Thai Sang Chart and Palang Pracharath, reported Thai Newsroom. Critics argue that Thaksin's reconciliation with former enemies was part of a deal ensuring his safe return after 17 years of self-imposed exile and avoiding a full prison sentence. In exchange, Thaksin’s political influence has allegedly facilitated the establishment of a Pheu Thai-led government. Despite the Pheu Thai government's efforts to introduce populist policies, such as the digital wallet project, Attachak argues that voter support may waver if fundamental issues concerning justice, human rights, and social governance remain unaddressed. The historian believes that people are now focusing more on these crucial matters than mere economic relief. In summary, Attachak's plea is clear: Thaksin should step back and let his daughter govern to restore faith in democratic values and justice in Thailand. -- 2024-09-10 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

New Lawsuit Seeks Dissolution of Thaksin-Linked Coalition Parties FILE - Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left, with, his daughter Paetongtarn, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2023.(AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) A lawsuit was filed September 9 by political activist Noparut Worachitwuthikul, seeking the dissolution of six key parties in the current government, which are allegedly manipulated by Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337754-new-lawsuit-seeks-dissolution-of-thaksin-linked-coalition-parties/

FILE - Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left, with, his daughter Paetongtarn, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2023.(AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) A lawsuit was filed September 9 by political activist Noparut Worachitwuthikul, seeking the dissolution of six key parties in the current government, which are allegedly manipulated by Thaksin Shinawatra. This comes just weeks after the Constitutional Court deposed former Thailand PM Srettha Thavisin for severely violating political ethics. The six parties under scrutiny include Bhumjaithai, Palang Pracharath, Ruam Thai Sang Chart, Chart Thai Pattana, Prachachart, and Pheu Thai itself, led by Thaksin's daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Thaksin, despite being legally barred from political activities due to prior misconduct charges, allegedly convened a crucial meeting at his residence on August 14, directing the coalition’s next steps. Thaksin’s involvement is significant because, under Thai law, he is prohibited from participating in politics. However, he reportedly hosted an urgent meeting attended by prominent coalition members just hours after the court's decision to depose Srettha Thavisin. This gathering, allegedly directed by Thaksin, aimed to ensure the leadership of Pheu Thai MP Chaikasem Nitisiri as a new prime ministerial candidate, while maintaining the coalition's grip on power. The key figures in this controversial meeting included Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul, former Palang Pracharath secretary-general Thammanat Prompao, Ruam Thai Sang Chart secretary-general Eknath Prompan, and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, among others. Each attended this secret session at Thaksin's Chan Song Lah residence, reported Thai Newsroom. The legal proceedings triggered by Noparut’s petition to the Election Commission mark one of several steps aimed at dismantling these coalition partners over their alleged unconstitutional manipulation by Thaksin. Should the court rule in favour of the dissolution, the leaders and executive members of these parties, including Paetongtarn Shinawatra, face the possibility of being banned from political activities for several years. -- 2024-09-10 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe