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DSI Poised to Investigate Thai Senatorial Election Scandal
File photo for reference only In a significant development, Thailand's Department of Special Investigation (DSI) is preparing to tackle allegations of electoral malpractice in the recent senatorial elections. Reports suggest that up to 138 of the 200 elected senators may be embroiled in high-profile vote-rigging and money laundering schemes, potentially triggering a special lawsuit under the DSI's oversight. The Justice Ministry, led by Thavi Sodsong, has directed the DSI's Committee on Special Lawsuits to meet and potentially launch an investigation into the accusations. Helming the committee is Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai. Known for his close ties with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s de facto Pheu Thai party leader Thaksin Shinawatra, Phumtham is expected to spearhead efforts to scrutinise alleged conspiracies in the electoral process. At the heart of these accusations are suspicions of a coordinated effort allegedly linked to Newin Chidchob, the influential figure behind the Bhumjaithai Party. The allegations include the distribution of vote-casting scripts to ensure predictable outcomes in elections, essentially undermining the integrity of district, provincial, and national-level races last year. This has cast a shadow over the legitimacy of those elected to senatorial positions, most of whom are reportedly connected to Bhumjaithai. Should the DSI proceed, an intensive investigation will unfold over the coming months, re-examining the contests that have prompted official complaints. Some of the defeated candidates, left disgruntled by the Election Commission's dismissal of their grievances, have noticed with anticipation the possibility of renewed scrutiny that this DSI investigation represents. If the investigation culminates in charges, the implicated senators could face immediate suspension and asset seizures pending judicial proceedings. In a worst-case scenario, they might be stripped of their senatorial status, necessitating re-elections and potentially reshaping the political landscape. What's particularly concerning are the claims that many of the senators were unaware of each other before the elections yet convened at the same venues, indicating possible orchestration behind their sudden camaraderie. Meanwhile, any direct dialogue or reconciliation between Bhumjaithai's Newin and Pheu Thai’s de facto boss Thaksin remains absent, even as the ruling coalition navigates these tumultuous waters. A planned meeting among coalition partners is set for tomorrow to possibly address internal tensions. This investigation not only reflects the internal political dynamics of Thailand but also serves as a critical examination of the country's electoral integrity, making it a developing story of high domestic and international interest. As it unfolds, the implications could resonate beyond partisan politics, directly affecting governance and public sentiment across the kingdom, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-02-25 -
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Zombie Vapes Alert: Thai Teens Targeted with Sedative-Infused E-Cigs
Pictture courtesy: Pattaya One News Authorities in Thailand have flagged a worrying trend in the capital's entertainment districts, where vapes containing sedative drugs are being sold to unsuspecting teenagers. Dubbed "zombie cigarettes," these products are reportedly circulating in Bangkok's lively Thonglor nightlife area, posing significant health risks. Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, Anukul Prueksanusak, warned of a new wave of homemade narcotics infiltrating the country's already challenging battle against drug trafficking. The latest concern is the shocking combination of electronic cigarettes infused with Etomidate—an anaesthetic typically reserved for controlled medical environments. When abused recreationally, Etomidate can induce profound drowsiness, slowed breathing, drastic blood pressure drops, nausea, disorientation, and even loss of consciousness, potentially with fatal consequences. Despite the inherent dangers, these zombie cigarettes are being distributed illicitly both on the ground and online, marketed under the guise of relaxation aids, making them especially enticing to youth. Government officials have issued a stern caution: these are not harmless adventures into relaxation. The unpredictable chemical concoctions pose severe health risks, enhanced by the vaping delivery system. Moreover, the systemic effects of Etomidate misuse can meddle with cortisol balance and muscle function long after the initial "high" fades. Parents and guardians are urged to maintain openness with young people, helping them understand the severity of the threat posed by such deceptive products. The unpredictability of the dosages, combined with an unknown array of added substances, could make these vapes lethal. As the government intensifies its scrutiny and crackdowns against the distribution of zombie cigarettes, efforts are expanding to educate the public. Anukul's warning underscores the essential need for community vigilance to stifle the tide of these drug-laden e-cigarettes, with an emphasis on supportive dialogues at home. Action continues from multiple agencies working collaboratively to stem the flow of these substances onto the streets and into the lives of vulnerable teenagers. Public awareness campaigns aim to empower informed choices, countering the allure of these undisclosed chemical mix vape products. In the face of this sinister vaping trend, Thai authorities stress the importance of staying informed and cautious, reinforcing the message that not all that glitters in electronic packaging is safe—or even remotely benign, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-25 -
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Thai Workforce Needs Foreign Skills: Academics Dismiss Job Fears
ASEAN NOW picture for reference only Recent concerns over Chinese students in Thailand potentially outcompeting Thai graduates have been played down by leading academics. They argue that rather than edging out Thai job seekers, these students help plug the skills gap and enhance economic relations. The debate sparked after Prof Supachai Pathumnakul from the Ministry of Higher Education shed light on Chinese investment in three Thai private universities. This led to fears about Chinese graduates competing against locals, particularly in companies requiring Chinese language proficiency. The influx of Chinese students is largely due to China's limited university seats, prompting around two to three million students to study abroad annually. Thailand's lower cost of living makes it an attractive option, reflected in the fact that over half of the 53,000 foreign students in Thailand last year were Chinese. Far from viewing them as competition, Prof Dr Buppa Lapawattnaphun regards Chinese students as facilitators, bridging Thai and Chinese labour markets. She notes that while Thai graduates might find it challenging to compete for positions in Chinese companies, they too gain advantageous prospects when returning to work for Thai firms with a Chinese presence. Thailand's workforce, comprised of 38 million people, has only 22%—around 8.5 million workers—with university qualifications. Dr Thanawat Polvichai highlights this shortfall, emphasising the need for skilled foreign workers. Chinese graduates can fill this gap, contributing to sectors requiring expertise. Dr Thanawat urges for a nuanced perspective, distinguishing between unskilled and skilled labour, noting the latter's scarcity remains a pressing issue in Thailand. Saengchai Thirakulvanij from the Thai SMEs Federation sees an even broader role for these students. He suggests positioning Chinese graduates as ambassadors for both education and tourism. Planting a seed of affinity for Thailand could result in increased interest from family and friends in the Chinese students' networks, boosting Thai tourism indirectly. Given Thailand's limited budget for workforce development, Chinese and other foreign graduates from local private universities can potentially fill job market gaps. Understanding this landscape, academics urge that instead of seeing Chinese students as a threat, Thai policymakers should leverage their presence to bolster the educational sector and economic resilience. By embracing international students as partners rather than adversaries, Thailand can enhance its socio-economic fabric, while fostering closer ties with one of its largest neighbouring economies, reported The Nation. -- 2025-02-25 -
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Indian Restaurant Owner in Pattaya Calls for Action Against Rental Bike Operators
If it is a private road she can get it sorted very quickly but she will likely not like the cost to do so similar issue in LK Metro, as food carts rent their spaces outside of businesses and the only way to prevent it was to rent the spaces yourself but then you need section it off to prevent becoming free parking for all
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