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Thailand's Prime Minister designate Paetongtarn Shinawatra, interacts with members of Pheu Thai party after a press conference at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, Aug. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Foreign leaders have extended their congratulations to Paetongtarn Shinawatra on her historic appointment as Thailand’s youngest prime minister. This significant event has ignited messages of goodwill from key figures around the world, each underscoring the hope for strengthened international ties and cooperation. Among the first to offer his congratulations was Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim. He took to social media to highlight the long-standing historical, cultural, and economic links between Malaysia and Thailand. Anwar expressed his commitment to further strengthening the relationship between the two neighbouring countries, emphasizing the importance of regional solidarity. India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, also sent his best wishes to Paetongtarn. Modi referenced the shared civilizational and cultural connections between India and Thailand, expressing his hopes for even closer ties under her leadership. He noted the potential for collaboration in areas such as trade, technology, and tourism. Singapore’s Prime Minister, Lawrence Wong, highlighted the deep and multidimensional relations between Singapore and Thailand. Wong conveyed his confidence in the continued growth of this partnership, stressing the importance of fostering cooperation in areas like education, innovation, and environmental sustainability. In the United States, Ambassador to Thailand, Robert F. Godec, extended his congratulations and affirmed the U.S.’s desire to strengthen its friendship and strategic partnership with Thailand. Godec emphasized the shared values of democracy and economic development that bind the two nations. Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s rise to power marks a new chapter in Thai politics, and the international community's response underscores the global significance of her leadership. Her appointment resonates beyond Thailand's borders, as the world watches closely to see how her tenure will influence regional and global dynamics. By focusing on reinforcing existing partnerships and exploring new avenues of cooperation, Paetongtarn’s leadership presents opportunities not only for Thailand but for its global partners as well. This wave of international congratulations signals a hopeful outlook for enhanced global collaboration. -- 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Paetongtarn Reaffirms Digital Wallet Commitment Amid Cancellation Rumours FILE - Thailand's Prime Minister-designate Paetongtarn Shinawatra, with members of Pheu Thai party talks to reporters during a press conference at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, Aug. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has quashed rumours surrounding the cancellation of the highly anticipated Digital Wallet Project. In an emphatic statement at the Pheu Thai Party headquarters, Paetongtarn clarified that the rumours were unfounded, reiterating the project’s significance as a vital economic stimulus for Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335955-paetongtarn-reaffirms-digital-wallet-commitment-amid-cancellation-rumours/

FILE - Thailand's Prime Minister-designate Paetongtarn Shinawatra, with members of Pheu Thai party talks to reporters during a press conference at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, Aug. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has quashed rumours surrounding the cancellation of the highly anticipated Digital Wallet Project. In an emphatic statement at the Pheu Thai Party headquarters, Paetongtarn clarified that the rumours were unfounded, reiterating the project’s significance as a vital economic stimulus for Thailand. Paetongtarn directly addressed speculation that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra had a hand in halting the project. She categorically denied any such interference, stressing the project's importance in boosting the economy. "The Digital Wallet Project represents a crucial step in modernising our financial infrastructure," she noted. "We are committed to moving forward, but we must ensure it aligns with the Fiscal Discipline Act." Acknowledging the economic changes Thailand has faced over the past year, Paetongtarn highlighted the necessity for thorough study and public consultation before implementing the project. This approach aims to guarantee that the Digital Wallet meets the country's updated financial needs. On the political front, Paetongtarn dismissed claims of her father’s overpowering influence on government decisions. "My family and I operate independently within our boundaries," she stated. "My father is a valuable asset to our nation's growth, but he is not seeking any political position." Addressing her tenure and future plans, Paetongtarn spoke of her unwavering dedication to her current role. She emphasised her resolve to focus on the nation's goals and leave past challenges behind. On the topic of the royal pardon recently granted to her father, she expressed profound gratitude to the monarchy. Paetongtarn concluded her remarks by sharing her guiding philosophy of living in the present and performing her duties to the best of her ability each day. "Concentrating on today's tasks ensures we lay a solid foundation for tomorrow," she said, reaffirming her commitment to Thailand's progress. -- 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

OCA cancels holding Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in Thailand by TNR Staff THE Sports Authority of Thailand said this evening (Aug. 19) that it has just received an urgent email from the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) stating that the sixth Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games (Aimag) set to be held in Bangkok and Chonburi during Nov. 21-30, 2024 has been cancelled because the budget was not channelled on time, Naewna newspaper and Amarin TV said. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335954-oca-cancels-holding-asian-indoor-and-martial-arts-games-in-thailand/

THE Sports Authority of Thailand said this evening (Aug. 19) that it has just received an urgent email from the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) stating that the sixth Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games (Aimag) set to be held in Bangkok and Chonburi during Nov. 21-30, 2024 has been cancelled because the budget was not channelled on time, Naewna newspaper and Amarin TV said. Dr. Kongsak Yodmanee, Sports Authority of Thailand’s governor, said this email also stated that there was too little time left to arrange the event. “However, OCA is still open to the possibility that if Thailand still wants to host this event, it could propose to do so after Saudi Arabia has hosted it in 2025,” he said. by TNR Staff Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Alleged Motorcycle Thief Gets Caught by Victims in Pattaya By Aim Tanakorn An alleged motorcycle thief was caught in Pattaya on Monday after his victim recognized him and alerted the police. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335953-alleged-motorcycle-thief-gets-caught-by-victims-in-pattaya/

An alleged motorcycle thief was caught in Pattaya on Monday after his victim recognized him and alerted the police. At 8:19 AM on August 19th, 2024, Banglamung police received a report from local residents that they had successfully captured a motorbike theft suspect. The police radioed patrol officers to go to the scene at the road alongside the railway near Soi Nern Plub Wan, Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. There, authorities found two victims, Mr. Wangfee Toomoodbamrung, 65, and Mr. Phongsaphon Sri-in, 23, restraining the suspect and waiting to provide their statements. According to the victims, Mr. Wangfee was the owner of a blue Honda Wave motorcycle and Mr. Phongsaphon was the owner of a white Yamaha Grand Filano motorcycle. Mr. Wangfee revealed that his motorcycle, which had been parked in Soi Wat Boonkanjanaram 4, was stolen two days earlier, and he had already reported the theft to the police. On the day of the incident, he had briefly left the key in the ignition, and when he turned around after walking away shortly, the thief had already ridden off with his motorcycle. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Dept of Disease Control Mandates Anti-Smoking Campaign Media at all Tobacco Retailers By Adam Judd Thailand – The Thai Department of Disease Control has announced a new regulation requiring all cigarette and tobacco retailers nationwide to display campaign media aimed at reducing, stopping, and quitting smoking and tobacco use at their points of sale. This mandate will take effect on August 21st. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335948-thai-dept-of-disease-control-mandates-anti-smoking-campaign-media-at-all-tobacco-retailers/

Thailand – The Thai Department of Disease Control has announced a new regulation requiring all cigarette and tobacco retailers nationwide to display campaign media aimed at reducing, stopping, and quitting smoking and tobacco use at their points of sale. This mandate will take effect on August 21st. Retailers are encouraged to participate in the “#Quit Smoking for Your Loved Ones” campaign by displaying the designated media at their tobacco retail locations. Business operators can obtain the campaign materials through two channels: 1. **Ready-to-use media**: Available at all Excise Department offices nationwide. 2. **Downloadable prototype media**: Accessible from the Tobacco Product Control Committee’s website at http://ddc.moph.go.th/otpc/journal_d Failure to comply with this requirement will result in a fine not exceeding 5,000 baht, as stipulated in Section 36, Paragraph Three, of the Tobacco Product Control Act B.E. 2560. By Adam Judd Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Harley-Davidson Shift: Some Production Heads to Thailand File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Harley-Davidson, a brand synonymous with American craftsmanship, has announced a significant shift in its production strategy. Starting in 2025, some of its iconic motorcycles, specifically the Pan America, Sportster S, and Nightster models, will be produced at Harley-Davidson's manufacturing plant in Thailand. This move is a first for the company, traditionally renowned for its American-made machines. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335947-harley-davidson-shift-some-production-heads-to-thailand/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Harley-Davidson, a brand synonymous with American craftsmanship, has announced a significant shift in its production strategy. Starting in 2025, some of its iconic motorcycles, specifically the Pan America, Sportster S, and Nightster models, will be produced at Harley-Davidson's manufacturing plant in Thailand. This move is a first for the company, traditionally renowned for its American-made machines. For employees and loyal customers, this decision has raised concerns about quality and identity. Andrew Worby, president of United Steelworkers Local 2-209, expressed his apprehensions: "The customers have an expectation of American icons. We have a hometown rally here in Milwaukee where we bring the customers in and have them walk through the factories and tell them that the products are made here.” The production shift, which was communicated to the U.S. workforce via email, has stirred uncertainty among the employees. Worby noted, "At the time period, the plant manager and management read an email to the workforce of this move." Despite cautioning that no U.S. jobs will be lost due to the change, Worby and other workers remain sceptical. "A lot of the union workers, or salaried workers, we ride too. We’re the customers and to have the news come out about the product, we didn’t feel it was very positive at all," Worby commented. He added, "To the best of my knowledge, there will not be jobs lost due to this product moving to Thailand, but that’s today. I can’t predict the future." In tandem with shifting some production, Harley-Davidson announced an additional $9 million investment into its U.S. facilities. The company assures that the move will help streamline operations without affecting the American workforce. Yet, the shadow of future uncertainties looms large as workers and customers alike wonder how this production shift will play out, reported ABC12. -- 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Gun-toting dad holds daughter hostage in Bangkok standoff by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A dramatic hostage situation unfolded yesterday in Lat Krabang Soi 16, Bangkok, as a father armed with a gun held his ten year old daughter captive inside their home. Police swiftly cordoned off the area, barring any unrelated individuals from entering the tense scene. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335946-gun-toting-dad-holds-daughter-hostage-in-bangkok-standoff/

A dramatic hostage situation unfolded yesterday in Lat Krabang Soi 16, Bangkok, as a father armed with a gun held his ten year old daughter captive inside their home. Police swiftly cordoned off the area, barring any unrelated individuals from entering the tense scene. The alarming incident came to light when the child’s mother alerted the police, reporting that her husband had taken their young daughter hostage and was brandishing a firearm. Responding with urgency, police and rescue officials rushed to the residence to defuse the volatile situation. Sources reveal that the father was experiencing severe stress and had made threats to harm the child. The police acted quickly, establishing a secure perimeter around the house to protect the public and ensure that only those with official business could access the area. The situation remains under close watch as negotiators work to bring the standoff to a peaceful resolution. The situation is ongoing, with the father and girl still inside the house. Officials are working to resolve the standoff safely, and more updates will be provided as the situation develops, said an officer at the scene. “It is a very tense situation. We are doing everything we can to ensure the safety of the child and to bring this incident to a peaceful conclusion.” Residents nearby have been advised to stay indoors and avoid the area until the police have resolved the situation. The presence of a firearm has heightened concerns, and the focus remains on de-escalating the situation without any harm coming to the child or the father. As of now, no further information has been released about the father’s state of mind or what might have triggered this alarming incident. The police are coordinating with mental health professionals to handle the situation delicately and provide any necessary support, reported KhaoSod. The community is urged to remain calm and allow the authorities to manage the incident. The safety of the child is the top priority, and every effort is being made to protect everyone involved. Authorities have promised to keep the public informed as more details become available. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man faces jail for raping, blackmailing young stepdaughter by Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek Police in Samut Prakan province near Bangkok arrested a depraved Thai man for raping and blackmailing his eight year old stepdaughter. The pedophile’s tattoos and explicit videos on his mobile phone were used as key evidence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335944-thai-man-faces-jail-for-raping-blackmailing-young-stepdaughter/

Police in Samut Prakan province near Bangkok arrested a depraved Thai man for raping and blackmailing his eight year old stepdaughter. The pedophile’s tattoos and explicit videos on his mobile phone were used as key evidence. The victim’s mother, 24 year old Mew, sought help from the Pavena Foundation for Children and Women after finding explicit pictures and videos of her daughter on the phone of her husband, 31 year old Em, in April. Despite the conclusive evidence, Em denied the allegations. According to Mew, some of the videos showed Em touching the girl’s private parts and having sex with the young victim. Em’s face was not shown in the videos but Mew was able to identify his tattoos. She also discovered more child pornography in his videos. Mew admitted that she had caught Em touching her daughter two years ago but he denied any sexual intent and claimed he loved children. Mew forgave him and told him never to touch the girl again but he broke his promise. According to Channel 3, Em recorded videos of the indecent act to threaten the young girl into further sexual activity with him. Mew said he decided to move out of their home and stay with her sister. She then reported the matter to the Foundation and officers at Khlong Dan Police Station. Based on the strong evidence, police issued an arrest warrant for Em on August 13 and arrested him yesterday, August 18. He is in court custody and is facing three charges, including: Section 277 of the Criminal Law: sexually assaulting a minor under 13 years old. The penalty is imprisonment from seven to 20 years and a fine from 140,000 to 400,000 baht, or life imprisonment. Section 276 of the Criminal Law: recording explicit images, videos, or sounds for improper purposes. The penalty would be one-third heavier than stated in Section 277. Section 329 of the Criminal Law: taking away minors aged under 15 years old from parents or guardians for an indecent purpose. The penalty will be imprisonment from two to 10 years and a fine from 4,000 to 20,000 baht. In a related report, police in the northern province of Tak arrested a Thai man for sexually assaulting his stepdaughter since she was six years old. He threatened the girl not to tell her mother. If she did, he would kill her. by Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bang Kapi skywalk to open by end of September by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of SkyscraperCity Bangkok Deputy Governor Wissanu Sapsompol announced that the capital’s Bang Kapi area is set to see the full opening of its skywalk by the end of next month. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335943-bang-kapi-skywalk-to-open-by-end-of-september/

Bangkok Deputy Governor Wissanu Sapsompol announced that the capital’s Bang Kapi area is set to see the full opening of its skywalk by the end of next month. The skywalk project has faced delays, with only a 1-kilometre section from The Mall shopping centre to Wat Si Boonruang near the MRT Yellow Line currently accessible. The remaining section, which will connect the Bang Kapi intersection to the Lam Salee intersection near the MRT Orange Line, is anticipated to be completed by the end of September. Wissanu mentioned that the final touches, including decorative elements of the skywalk, are scheduled to be finished by November. Additionally, a covered walkway will be constructed to link the skywalk with the MRT Orange Line. Restoration of the road by the Metropolitan Waterworks Authority is expected to conclude by the end of this month, reported Bangkok Post. In related news, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is exploring the possibility of implementing a city planning law that provides compensation to landowners whose properties are required for public infrastructure improvements. Bangkok Deputy Governor Wissanu announced that the BMA has requested several property owners to allow a portion of their lands to be utilised for the expansion of neighbouring footpaths and the construction of ramps for wheelchair users. Several landowners have responded positively to the request from the City Hall, which is currently advancing with the expansion projects. However, Sapsompol acknowledged the city planning law does not currently allow for compensation to be given to landowners whose properties are used for public service enhancements. Therefore, the BMA is endeavouring to adjust the law and modify the city plan. Meanwhile, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt highlighted that the BMA has successfully repaired 300 kilometres of footpaths and is in the process of constructing an additional 80 kilometres within the capital. However, the construction of new footpaths equipped with wheelchair ramps faces obstacles, as they are often blocked by signboards and trees, said the 57 year old Bangkok chief. Efforts to remove trees to make way for footpaths have been met with opposition from residents. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of SkyscraperCity Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Urgent Surveillance Recommended for Mpox Variant in Thailand FILE - Dr Yong Poovorawan. Picture courtesy: MGR online Thailand's foremost virologist, Dr Yong Poovorawan, has emphasised the critical need for vigilant monitoring of the latest ‘Clade 1b’ Mpox (monkeypox) variant. This call to action follows the variant's concerning spread across central and eastern Africa. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335941-urgent-surveillance-recommended-for-mpox-variant-in-thailand/

FILE - Dr Yong Poovorawan. Picture courtesy: MGR online Thailand's foremost virologist, Dr Yong Poovorawan, has emphasised the critical need for vigilant monitoring of the latest ‘Clade 1b’ Mpox (monkeypox) variant. This call to action follows the variant's concerning spread across central and eastern Africa. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has already classified the ongoing outbreak within these African regions as a public health emergency of international concern. Originating in the Democratic Republic of Congo, this outbreak has resulted in at least 450 fatalities. The new variant's rapid progression and high mortality rate have scientists particularly alarmed. Mpox is notorious for its ease of transmission, spreading through direct contact such as unprotected sex, skin-to-skin interaction, and airborne particles from close-range talking or breathing. Symptoms include flu-like signs and distinctive skin lesions. The disease is severe, with approximately 4% of cases being fatal. Dr Yong, who leads the Centre of Excellence in Clinical Virology at Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Medicine, used his Facebook platform on Sunday to draw attention to the urgency of monitoring the ‘Clade 1b’ variant. He highlighted the necessity of preventive strategies, especially for children, given the prohibitively high cost of the current vaccine. He further mentioned the importance of researching whether reducing the vaccine dosage could potentially retain its effectiveness, making it more viable for widespread use. Anan Jongkaewwattana from the National Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology echoed Dr Yong's concerns. He clarified that the WHO's emergency declaration was due to the variant's rapid spread rather than its discovered severity. With these points in mind, it's evident that Thailand must take proactive measures to track and manage the potential threat of this new Mpox variant, ensuring public health safety remains uncompromised. -- 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thammanat Dropped from Paetongtarn’s New Cabinet Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's controversial political heavyweight Thammanat Prompao, the acting agriculture minister, has been dropped from the new Cabinet being formed by newly-appointed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335939-thammanat-dropped-from-paetongtarn’s-new-cabinet/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's controversial political heavyweight Thammanat Prompao, the acting agriculture minister, has been dropped from the new Cabinet being formed by newly-appointed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. "They (Pheu Thai) don’t want him," said Gen Prawit Wongsuwan, leader of Palang Pracharath Party, in an interview with Channel 3. Prawit confirmed that Palang Pracharath will remain in the Pheu Thai-led coalition, dismissing earlier reports that it would be expelled due to conflicts with Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of Pheu Thai. Informed sources indicated that the decision to exclude Thammanat was made after Prawit and Thaksin reconciled their differences over a phone call. Earlier, there were reports that Prawit’s younger brother, Pol Gen Patcharawat Wongsuwan, would be dropped from the new cabinet line-up. Patcharawat is currently acting as the minister of natural resources and environment. Thammanat, aged 59, was jailed for four years in 1994 for his involvement in a heroin smuggling case in Australia. Opposition politicians in 2021 unsuccessfully attempted to have the Constitutional Court declare him unfit for office. The court ruled it did not recognize Thammanat's conviction since the verdict was delivered in a foreign country. He has consistently denied any involvement in the drug smuggling case, maintaining that he was caught with flour, not heroin. The decision to drop Thammanat is said to be motivated by concerns that he might pose legal troubles for Prime Minister Paetongtarn. Just last week, the Constitutional Court ordered the dismissal of Srettha Thavisin as prime minister, finding him guilty of a serious breach of professional ethics by appointing Phichit Chuenban, the Shinawatra family's lawyer, to the Cabinet in April. Phichit was jailed for six months in 2008 for contempt of court related to a bribery attempt, reported Thai PBS. Palang Pracharath was one of the parties that Paetongtarn vowed not to cooperate with during her election campaign last year due to their association with the 2014 military coup. As prime minister, she may face questions about reversing this stance. Prawit, who did not attend the special House meeting last Friday to vote on Paetongtarn's nomination for prime minister, reportedly sent a bouquet of flowers to congratulate her. Despite the friction, Palang Pracharath will submit its list of proposed cabinet members to Prime Minister Paetongtarn tomorrow. This will include Patcharawat as deputy prime minister and natural resources and environment minister, Santi Promphat as agriculture minister (replacing Thammanat), Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn as deputy agriculture minister, and Chaiwut Thanakamanusorn as deputy public health minister. -- 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 20 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1335938-thailand-live-tuesday-20-august-2024/

Thaksin Shinawatra Faces Legal Trouble for Political Interference Thailand's for mer 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) Legal action appears imminent for former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra following allegations of his unlawful involvement in recent political activities while on parole. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335930-thaksin-shinawatra-faces-legal-trouble-for-political-interference/

A Swiss man sought a sustainable solution after he and more than 10 other Thais and foreign beach dwellers, were bitten by dogs belonging to an unidentified foreign man on Ban Suan Luang Beach in Prachuap Khiri Khan. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Naewna Swiss man paws for thought after dog bites on Thai beach (video) Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335928-swiss-man-paws-for-thought-after-dog-bites-on-thai-beach-video/

Thaksin's Lese-Majeste Trial Set for July Next Year The court has allocated three sessions for prosecution witnesses and four for defense witnesses. Thaksin, charged under Section 112 of the criminal code, which prohibits insulting the monarchy, appeared at the Criminal Court on Monday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335931-thaksins-lese-majeste-trial-set-for-july-next-year/