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FILE photo: Chinese tourists arrive at Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok. (Xinhua/Wang Teng) In an ambitious stride to revitalize its tourism sector, the Thai government has announced a permanent visa-free travel agreement with China, allowing seamless entry for Chinese tourists into Thailand. This development marks a significant milestone in the tourism exchange between these two nations, promising economic and cultural benefits. The roots of this agreement trace back to the Pheu Thai Party's strategic focus on increasing visa-free travel for Thai passport holders, initiatives championed during the tenure of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. In response, the Chinese government reciprocated by waiving visa requirements for Thai citizens from 1st March, making travel between the two countries more accessible. Thailand initially inaugurated a trial visa exemption for Chinese tourists from September 2023 to February 2024. The initiative sought to restore the pre-pandemic influx of around 10 million Chinese visitors, who made up a significant portion of Thailand's tourism market in 2019. With China historically being Thailand's largest source of tourists, this policy aims to cement that status. Tourism organisations and airlines anticipate that the mutual visa-free arrangement will balance the scales between inbound and outbound travellers. This equilibrium is expected to encourage airlines to expand flight offerings, ensuring a more stable tourism market. Previously, flights to China were primarily populated by Chinese returning from Thai vacations. Now, the tables are turning, as more Thais are keen to explore China. March saw a notable shift, with Thai AirAsia reporting a threefold increase in Thai passenger numbers to China compared to January figures, when visas were still mandatory for Thai tourists visiting China. The travel industry is witnessing a renewed interest in China as a destination, almost rivaling the traditional appeal of Japan. The Thai Travel Agents Association has identified China as a burgeoning favourite among Thai travellers, drawn by its vast cultural and geographical attractions. Online platforms like Klook have observed heightened interest in Chinese sites, such as Shanghai Disneyland, from Thai tourists. Beyond China, Thailand is expanding its visa-free programme with other nations, like Kazakhstan, showcasing its commitment to growing international tourism. Moreover, the Thai government has unveiled plans for the "Six Countries, One Destination" policy, facilitating a singular visa process for travel across Southeast Asia, echoing Europe's Schengen visa system. By strengthening travel ties, Thailand is positioning itself as a pivotal hub in Southeast Asia's tourism landscape, enticing global visitors with its foundational principle of warm hospitality and rich culture. The enduring partnership with China is not only a testament to strategic diplomacy but also a beacon of economic opportunity for both nations, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-27

"Who Are You?" Thaksin's Bold Move Sparks Criticism Image courtesy: Naewna OPINION In a recent public appearance, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra sparked controversy with remarks about tackling cross-border call centre scams. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347272-who-are-you-thaksins-bold-move-sparks-criticism/

Image courtesy: Naewna OPINION In a recent public appearance, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra sparked controversy with remarks about tackling cross-border call centre scams. During a campaign speech in Chiang Mai, Thaksin claimed he was coordinating with authorities in Cambodia and Myanmar to crack down on these operations, even suggesting he would intervene directly if necessary. This has raised eyebrows, with former MP Thepthai Senpong questioning Thaksin's audacity in assuming authority to address issues beyond national borders - roles typically reserved for the government. Thepthai expressed surprise at Thaksin's assertive stance, particularly since he no longer holds any official position, and warned of potential diplomatic repercussions. Notably, senior Thai police officials have echoed Thaksin's claims, validating his information and indicating ongoing investigations align with his details. However, Thepthai argues that law enforcement should swiftly handle such matters independently, without external interference. He also urged Thaksin and his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, to reconsider their approach to governance, emphasising that Thailand is a nation, not a business venture of the Shinawatra family. Thepthai called on citizens to remain vigilant against actions that could entrust the country’s fate to familial interests, reported Naew Na. -- 2024-12-27

Thailand Eases Alcohol Sale Rules at Major Airports Suvarnabhumi Airport. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a notable shift aimed at fostering tourism and economic growth, Thailand has relaxed its restrictions on alcohol sales within major international airports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347270-thailand-eases-alcohol-sale-rules-at-major-airports/

Suvarnabhumi Airport. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a notable shift aimed at fostering tourism and economic growth, Thailand has relaxed its restrictions on alcohol sales within major international airports. This strategic move was officially sanctioned when the Prime Minister's Office issued a regulation extension published in the Royal Gazette on Christmas Day, with immediate effect from Thursday. This change follows a recommendation from the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee that was embraced by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Initially, the sale of alcoholic drinks was curtailed on the five major Buddhist holy days: Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, Asanha Bucha, and the start and end of Buddhist Lent. This measure has now been lifted within pivotal transport hubs under the auspices of Airports of Thailand Plc (AoT), namely Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai airports. The intent behind this regulatory adjustment is clear: to enhance travellers' spending capabilities while invigorating Thailand's robust tourism sector. This approach not only caters to the convenience of international travellers seeking refreshments but also positions Thailand as an accommodating destination in the competitive travel industry landscape. While airports embrace this newfound flexibility, broader reforms are being ushered in on the domestic front. The Department of Excise is championing a drive to ease the production of community liquor, which is anticipated to bolster local economies. According to Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul, this initiative will make it less cumbersome to secure licences for crafting local alcoholic beverages. By leveraging domestic materials and cultivating community brewing, the government sees an opportunity to elevate both income levels and the quality of local products. One key element of these regulatory revisions is facilitating brewpubs and craft beer breweries to distribute keg beer beyond their premises, provided the containers hold a minimum of 20 litres. Additionally, small-scale beer factories will be afforded a seamless upgrade pathway to medium-sized operations, sidestepping the bureaucratic hassle of licence renewal. These regulations are slated for implementation in February, underscoring Thailand's commitment to streamline industry operations domestically while presenting a refreshed, accommodating face to the world at its gateway airports. This dual approach aims to drive economic vitality, from the bustling international terminals to the heart of local communities, where traditional practices meet modern-day opportunities, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-27

Thai Police Bust Major 'OnlyFans' Network with Over 16,000 Subscribers In a significant crackdown dubbed "Catch the OnlyFans Leeches," Thailand's Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) discovered a private group with over 16,000 subscribers and hundreds of thousands of baht circulating among its members. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347269-thai-police-bust-major-onlyfans-network-with-over-16000-subscribers/

In a significant crackdown dubbed "Catch the OnlyFans Leeches," Thailand's Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) discovered a private group with over 16,000 subscribers and hundreds of thousands of baht circulating among its members. Under the leadership of Police Lieutenant General Jiraphop Bhuridej, the raid was carried out by the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCD) of the CIB. The operation targeted Itthipat, a 27-year-old Thai national, who was caught disseminating obscene content online for commercial gain — an offence under Thailand’s Computer Crimes Act. The illegal activity was traced to an apartment in the Pracha Chuen area of Bangkok. Investigators found that Itthipat managed an anonymous VK account and facilitated access to a secret Telegram group in exchange for payments via TrueMoney. This arrangement allowed contributors to share and view explicit materials in violation of legal standards. Through financial tracking, authorities monitored Itthipat's benefit from these operations, prompting a court-issued search warrant. During the raid, police seized several items now held as evidence. The case highlights ongoing efforts by Thai authorities to curb digital content crimes and enforce rigid legislation on online obscenity, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-12-27

Thailand Boosts New Year's Road Safety with Tougher Drink-Driving Penalties Picture courtesy: Siam Rath The Thai government is set to increase penalties for drink-driving, as part of a broader effort to reduce road accidents during the upcoming New Year festivities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347261-thailand-boosts-new-years-road-safety-with-tougher-drink-driving-penalties/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath The Thai government is set to increase penalties for drink-driving, as part of a broader effort to reduce road accidents during the upcoming New Year festivities. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Suriya Jungrungreangkit, announced the initiative at the launch of the “Safe New Year, Together for Safer Roads” campaign on 26th December. Reflecting concerns over rising accidents from drink-driving, distracted driving, and general disregard for traffic laws, the Ministry of Transport aims to revise legal penalties, making them stricter to deter such behaviours. This move follows worrying statistics from last New Year's period, which saw 284 deaths and 2,307 injuries. Anticipating a 12.99% increase in public transport usage during the ten-day holiday period from 27th December to 5th January, the ministry is coordinating with various transport departments to ensure public safety. Approximately 2.3 million trips are expected nationwide, with measures in place to enhance security and efficiency across all modes of transport—land, rail, water, and air. Minister Suriya stressed the importance of seamless and safe travel, urging all transport sectors to ensure vehicles and personnel are well-prepared. Public buses in Thailand, which see the most use, will undergo strict readiness checks, including limits on driver working hours and health assessments to prevent fatigue-related accidents. Furthermore, unresolved issues such as malfunctioning railway barriers are being addressed with local governments to minimise accident risks. The ministry's goal is for New Year travel, particularly via public transport, to be accident-free. Suriya reassured the public of the ministry's commitment to safety and convenience, drawing on past experiences to enhance service delivery and integration across all transport networks. This, he hopes, will ensure a safe and joyful New Year celebration for everyone travelling across Thailand, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-12-27

Phuket duo swipes 600 euros from Belgian with a fake hug By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Police yesterday, December 25, arrested a Thai woman and a transwoman for pretending to greet a Belgian man with a hug and stealing 600 euros in cash (approximately 21,000 baht) from him in the Patong area of Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347219-phuket-duo-swipes-600-euros-from-belgian-with-a-fake-hug/

Pattaya Mobilises 420 Officers to Safeguard Festive Tourists Photo: The Thaiger In Pattaya, a substantial force comprising over 420 officers and volunteers took action on Christmas Eve to safeguard tourists. Led by Yingyot Thepchamnong, Commander of Police Region 2, the initiative aimed to ensure safety during the festive season. This operation, called "By Your Side, With Care Throughout the Festive Season," kicked off at 6.36pm on 24th December. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347238-pattaya-mobilises-420-officers-to-safeguard-festive-tourists/

20th anniversary: Phuket looks back on Boxing Day tsunami By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Chai Shop Films Two decades after the catastrophic Indian Ocean Tsunami, communities along Thailand’s Andaman coast, including Phuket, gathered today, Boxing Day, to honour the lives lost and reflect on the lessons learned from that fateful day in 2004. The disaster claimed an estimated 230,000 to 280,000 lives across multiple countries, with Thailand designating December 26 as National Disaster Prevention Day in its wake. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347180-remembering-the-2004-tsunami-in-phuket/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 27 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1347244-thailand-live-friday-27-december-2024/

By Nattapong Westwood Thai influencer dies after alcohol stunt for 30,000 baht By Nattapong Westwood Bank Leicester, a well-known Thai influencer, has tragically died after being hired to consume an excessive amount of alcohol in exchange for 30,000 baht (US$880). Known for his unique approach of rapping while selling garlands to support his grandmother, Bank had gained significant popularity online. His untimely death occurred at approximately 3.40am, reportedly due to the drinking challenge. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347220-thai-influencer-dies-after-alcohol-stunt-for-30000-baht/

20th anniversary: Phuket looks back on Boxing Day tsunami By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Chai Shop Films Two decades after the catastrophic Indian Ocean Tsunami, communities along Thailand’s Andaman coast, including Phuket, gathered today, Boxing Day, to honour the lives lost and reflect on the lessons learned from that fateful day in 2004. The disaster claimed an estimated 230,000 to 280,000 lives across multiple countries, with Thailand designating December 26 as National Disaster Prevention Day in its wake. In Thailand alone, 5,078 lives were confirmed lost, 8,457 people injured, and 3,716 missing, presumed dead. Phang Nga bore the brunt of the tragedy, with over 4,100 confirmed fatalities, including 2,213 foreign tourists. In Phuket, 259 deaths were recorded, but hundreds remain unaccounted for. Eyewitnesses recalled the tsunami’s terrifying power. “Patong was severely affected. The water reached as high as a three-storey building,” said Weerawit Kruesombat, President of the Patong Entertainment Association. Mayor Chalermsak Maneesri narrowly escaped the waves, which struck at 10.40am. “The devastation was beyond words—overturned cars, scattered debris, and so many lives lost.” Locals like Khun Bo vividly remember the chaos. “The sea receded so far back the beach was dry. Minutes later, the waves returned with incredible force. I climbed a tree and clung on for hours.” Today, Phuket boasts enhanced tsunami defences, including 13 warning towers along its west coast and a buoy detection system offering up to 2.5 hours’ warning. Regular evacuation drills and community education initiatives aim to prevent a repeat of 2004’s tragedy, reported The Phuket News. Yet concerns linger. “Sometimes the buoys fail. We need better inland warning systems and evacuation plans.” Mayor Chalermsak emphasised the importance of preparedness. “Our rescue teams are well-trained, and warning systems are tested weekly. We’ve come a long way since 2004.” While the pain of the past endures, survivors and officials are united in their resolve to protect future generations from such devastation. An Australian father still mourns his teenage son lost to the waves 20 years ago. As the ocean roared back with walls of water up to 30 metres high, the 67 year old Aussie dad tried desperately to protect his son who had Down’s syndrome. Holding his son against a hotel pillar, the man was swept away by the sheer force of the wave. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-26

Thai bus ticket collector assaulted by passenger for rejecting his advances by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Bangkokbusclub.com ชุมชนคนรักรถเมล์ A female public bus ticket collector sought justice after being physically assaulted by a male passenger for rejecting his advances. However, the Department of Land Transport allegedly blamed her for the incident, citing her impatience. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347176-thai-bus-ticket-collector-assaulted-by-passenger-for-rejecting-his-advances/

Photo via Facebook/ Bangkokbusclub.com ชุมชนคนรักรถเมล์ by Petch Petpailin A female public bus ticket collector sought justice after being physically assaulted by a male passenger for rejecting his advances. However, the Department of Land Transport allegedly blamed her for the incident, citing her impatience. The ticket collector, 24 year old Pichobon Yadee, shared details of the assault, which occurred on December 2 at around 4pm on a public bus number 2-33 (Bua Thong Keha–MRT Bang Sue), with the Facebook page Bangkok Bus Club, to seek justice. AdvertisementsPichobon disclosed that the assailant asked for her contact information, but when she refused, he became aggressive. Dashcam footage shared by the victim shows the man, wearing a blue T-shirt, handing his phone to her in the hope that she would provide her contact details. When she ignored him, he suddenly approached her, struck her on the shoulder, and promptly exited the bus. The matter escalated when the attacker filed a complaint against Pichobon with the Land Transport Ministry, accusing her of using vulgar language and behaving rudely during the incident. Photo via Facebook/ Bangkokbusclub.com ชุมชนคนรักรถเมล์ To defend herself, Pichobon presented the dashcam footage to ministry officials. However, instead of supporting her, the officials criticised her conduct stating… “You should remain calm. You are working in the hospitality industry.” Photo via Facebook/ Bangkokbusclub.com ชุมชนคนรักรถเมล์ Feeling denied justice by the authorities, Pichobon turned to the public by sharing the video. She also revealed that other ticket collectors encountered the same man, but none experienced the same level of aggression. The attacker was later identified as 21 year old Nopparat. He admitted to attempting to obtain the victim’s contact details because he found her attractive. While he expressed a willingness to apologise, he also claimed that Pichobon should provide better service to passengers. Photo via Amarin TV Nopparat’s father told Amarin TV that his son has autism and suggested that his actions might have been influenced by his condition. Pichobon acknowledged his condition but emphasised that his parents should take greater responsibility for their son’s care. She added that it was fortunate Nopparat did not commit further acts of violence. The two parties reached an agreement at Bang Kluay Police Station yesterday, December 24, after two hours of negotiation. Nopparat agreed to pay 4,000 baht in compensation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-26

UPDATE Council of State Dispels Media Claims on Kittiratt's Eligibility for BoT Role Picture courtesy: Money and Banking The Council of State (CoS), serving as the Thai government's legal advisor, has dismissed recent media reports asserting that Kittiratt Na-Ranong has been ruled out as a candidate for the chairman of the Bank of Thailand (BoT) board. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347108-council-of-state-declares-kittiratt-unqualified-as-bot-board-chairman/#findComment-19470178

UPDATE Council of State Dispels Media Claims on Kittiratt's Eligibility for BoT Role Picture courtesy: Money and Banking The Council of State (CoS), serving as the Thai government's legal advisor, has dismissed recent media reports asserting that Kittiratt Na-Ranong has been ruled out as a candidate for the chairman of the Bank of Thailand (BoT) board. On Wednesday, Secretary-General Pakorn Nilprapunt clarified that the council has not yet issued any official decision regarding Kittiratt's eligibility for this prominent role. Media reports suggesting otherwise appear premature as the matter remains under scrutiny, with the CoS expected to deliberate on the issue later today. The ongoing evaluation follows an inquiry initiated by the Fiscal Policy Office under the Finance Ministry, questioning Mr Kittiratt's eligibility due to his stint as an adviser to ex-Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin—a role critics argue could compromise the BoT's impartiality. Permanent Secretary for Finance, Lawaron Sangsanit, countered assertions that he confirmed Kittiratt’s disqualification. Instead, he emphasized that the ministry sought the CoS's counsel for clarity on whether Kittiratt’s advisory role could be defined as political—a determination crucial to validating his candidacy for the BoT chairmanship. The procedural move aims to ensure the adherence to rigorous vetting required for such a significant appointment. "We approached the CoS to confirm the details because we're unsure about the qualification criteria," stated Lawaron. "We're awaiting their legal clarification." Should the CoS classify the advisory position as political, Kittiratt would indeed be disqualified from consideration. Such a verdict would necessitate the Finance Ministry to recommend an alternative candidate for the BoT chair. Despite the uncertainty, operational continuity at the BoT remains secure as the current deputy chairman, also the governor, is empowered to fulfil the chairman's responsibilities in an interim capacity. Amid this controversy, Kittiratt took to Facebook to express his commitment to respecting any forthcoming decision. He expressed gratitude to supporters who have vested their trust in his capabilities, regardless of the final outcome. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira anticipates an official response from the CoS within the next couple of days, which will put to rest this contentious issue and allow the appointment process to progress. The situation underscores the meticulous balance of legal and political considerations inherent in high-profile governmental appointments, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-26

Thai woman falls from pedestrian bridge while trying to save dropped phone by Petch Petpailin Photo via Naewna A Thai woman sustained severe injuries after falling from a pedestrian bridge in Samut Prakan province near Bangkok while attempting to retrieve her dropped mobile phone. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347166-thai-woman-falls-from-pedestrian-bridge-while-trying-to-save-dropped-phone/

Photo via Naewna by Petch Petpailin A Thai woman sustained severe injuries after falling from a pedestrian bridge in Samut Prakan province near Bangkok while attempting to retrieve her dropped mobile phone. Officers from Phra Samut Jedhi Police Station and rescuers from the Por Tek Tung Foundation responded to the incident, which occurred beneath the pedestrian bridge near Soi Suksawat 48 at 5pm yesterday, December 24. Upon arrival, they found the injured woman, 29 year old Patthaya, lying face down on the road. Patthaya suffered a broken right arm, multiple broken teeth, a deep wound on her chin, and numerous scratches and bruises on her legs. Patthaya explained to rescuers that she had been on her way home and was speaking to her husband on the phone while walking across the pedestrian bridge. She stopped midway across the bridge to finish the call. As she attempted to place her phone in her bag, it slipped from her grasp and fell through the bridge’s handrail. In a moment of impulsive decision, she reached out to catch the phone but instead fell off the bridge along with it. Photo via Naewna A worker at a nearby electrical appliance shop, 20 year old Anchalee Thongboonrueng, witnessed the incident while sweeping the footpath outside the shop. Anchalee said she rushed to assist the victim and immediately called rescuers to the scene. Reports indicate that Patthaya’s injuries were severe, but no updates on her current condition have been provided. Photo via Naewna Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-26

Stranded on the beach: Foreign driver’s pickup gets stuck in Phuket [video] by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A yellow four-door pickup truck driven by a foreign driver became stuck on Mai Khao Beach in Phuket, causing a stir among both locals and online users. The mishap was captured in a 34-second video shared on Facebook which quickly drew attention and comments online. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347161-stranded-on-the-beach-foreign-driver’s-pickup-gets-stuck-in-phuket-video/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal A yellow four-door pickup truck driven by a foreign driver became stuck on Mai Khao Beach in Phuket, causing a stir among both locals and online users. The mishap was captured in a 34-second video shared on Facebook which quickly drew attention and comments online. The video shows the vehicle stuck in the sand in front of a hotel, with the caption suggesting frustration at recurring events on the island. In the video, comments flooded in as viewers expressed disbelief at the situation, questioning why the driver attempted such a risky manoeuvre. Reactions ranged from curiosity about whether the vehicle could be freed from the sand to outright amusement at the predicament. Responding to one comment, the original poster remarked, “He’s crazy, don’t help him.” The person who uploaded the video later provided more context to the unfolding drama. Enjoying a relaxing day at Mai Khao Beach, they witnessed the pickup truck arriving at a parking area near the beach. Inside the vehicle were four foreigners, including the driver. All but the driver exited the truck, and it was then that the unexpected happened. Spurred on by his friends’ encouragement, the driver surprisingly decided to drive onto the sandy beach. This reckless decision led to the vehicle getting stuck in the sand, unable to move further or return to the road. The situation attracted attention from both local police and beachgoers, who eventually helped to tow the vehicle back to safety, reported KhaoSod. Such instances are not isolated, as Phuket’s popular beaches often attract adventurous tourists who sometimes underestimate the challenges posed by driving on sandy surfaces. Back in April, a British tourist found himself in a sticky situation after driving onto the sidewalk and getting trapped in the sand on Kamala Beach. The mishap led to police intervention and hefty fines for the Brit’s reckless escapade. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-26

Thai PM Pressured to Dissolve House Over Skyrocketing Power Costs PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faces intense pressure to dissolve Thailand's House of Representatives over her perceived inability to address soaring power bills affecting Thai households. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347156-thai-pm-pressured-to-dissolve-house-over-skyrocketing-power-costs/

PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faces intense pressure to dissolve Thailand's House of Representatives over her perceived inability to address soaring power bills affecting Thai households. Key leaders, including activist Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, hold her accountable for not achieving lower electricity rates—a pressing economic strain felt by consumers nationwide. Nattapong, a prominent people's leader, has urged the Prime Minister to take immediate responsibility and step down by dissolving the House. He argues this step is vital to pave the way for fresh elections and a new government that can tackle the lingering energy cost crisis more effectively. The crux of the discontent lies in Prime Minister Paetongtarn’s handling of decisions made by the National Energy Policy Council (NEPC), the governmental body managing power purchases and pricing. Critics, including Nattapong, argue that Paetongtarn, wielding significant influence, should have been able to guide NEPC decisions more forcefully, given that many council members also serve in her cabinet. Despite Paetongtarn's reasoning that she could not sway collective council decisions dominated by powerful energy producers like Ratch Group Pcl. and Gulf Energy Development Pcl., this defence has not satisfied her critics. Nattapong labelled her justifications as "lame and irrational," suggesting that her government’s claimed initiatives to lower electricity costs lacked genuine commitment or urgency. Adding to the intrigue, Prime Minister Paetongtarn’s father and Pheu Thai's influential figure, Thaksin Shinawatra, was seen playing golf recently with top energy executives and political figures, including Gulf Energy CEO Sarath Ratanavadi and Anutin Charnvirakul of Bhumjaithai. Such engagements raise eyebrows amidst ongoing fuel cost negotiations, stirring public and political speculation about potential conflicts of interest and backdoor dealings. The growing dissatisfaction over energy costs signifies a looming political showdown. Nattapong warns that unless Paetongtarn addresses the power rate crisis head-on, it could become a focal point for a likely no-confidence motion in Parliament. Meanwhile, her critics continue to clamor for immediate reforms or her resignation, painting a turbulent political picture as Thailand wrestles with its economic challenges. Whether Prime Minister Paetongtarn will act by dissolving the House or find another path to soothe discontent remains uncertain. As the situation unfolds, public attention focuses intently on how these critical economic and political decisions will shape Thailand’s near future, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-12-26