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Sudarat's Last Stand: Iron Lady Fights Corruption in Thai Politics Picture courtesy of Facebook คุณหญิงสุดารัตน์ เกยุราพันธุ์ Sudarat Keyuraphan Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan, renowned as the "Iron Lady" of Thai politics, is rallying forcefully to cleanse the tarnished reputation of her workforce, the Thai Sang Thai party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363084-sudarats-last-stand-iron-lady-fights-corruption-in-thai-politics/

Picture courtesy of Facebook คุณหญิงสุดารัตน์ เกยุราพันธุ์ Sudarat Keyuraphan Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan, renowned as the "Iron Lady" of Thai politics, is rallying forcefully to cleanse the tarnished reputation of her workforce, the Thai Sang Thai party. The 64-year-old stalwart recently committed to restructuring the party she founded in 2021 to tackle corruption that has deeply entwined the country's administration. Her defiant stance comes amid allegations against some members of her party of straying from integrity. A storm of controversy swirls around Thai Sang Thai, as key figures have leapt ship. Former MPs Anudith Nakornthap and Karoon Hosakul, once loyal to Sudarat, have aligned themselves with other political factions, leaving behind an internal rift. Yet, Sudarat remains adamant, asserting that reform is the pathway to restoring public trust in politics defined by law and morality. Launching her banner of “honest politics”, Sudarat spotlighted devastating corruption as a catalyst for Thailand’s economic stagnation. She criticised an entrenched cycle of vote-buying leading to power abuse and capital accumulation at taxpayer expense. Her pledge is clear: motivated leadership is essential to uprooting this malady from the nation's political landscape. Despite being urged to retire, Sudarat insists her mission against corruption is critical. She intends to reinvigorate the political battlefield, urging citizens to reject the pervasive money-empowered political cycle. Her message resonates deeply amidst increasing public frustration with longstanding dishonest practices. With a career spanning decades and having held prominent cabinet roles like public health minister, Sudarat's resolve is unwavering. She originated in politics with the Palang Dharma Party in 1992, then joined forces with Thaksin Shinawatra to create the Thai Rak Thai Party, which solidified a historic electoral victory in 2001. Her journey experienced highs and lows, including a five-year political ban after Thai Rak Thai’s dissolution in 2007. Recently, Sudarat made notable electoral strides in 2023 as Thai Sang Thai’s sole list MP, although she relinquished the position to support the party’s secretary-general. While she hints that if current efforts falter, she might retreat from politics, her determined crusade for a corruption-free Thailand still reverberates strongly, setting a bold precedent in Thai political circles. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-06-09

French National Arrested in Pattaya for Sexually Assaulting 13-Year-Old Girl Picture courtesy of Siam Rath In a coordinated law enforcement operation, Thai police have successfully apprehended a French national in Pattaya, accused of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363051-french-national-arrested-in-pattaya-for-sexually-assaulting-13-year-old-girl/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath In a coordinated law enforcement operation, Thai police have successfully apprehended a French national in Pattaya, accused of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl. The suspect, who had been evading capture since the incident in Nong Khai, was taken into custody following thorough investigative efforts. On 8th June 2025, officers from Nong Khai, joined by Chonburi Immigration Police, executed the arrest of 44-year-old Mr Yannick, a French citizen. The arrest was conducted pursuant to a warrant issued by the Nong Khai Provincial Court on 6th June 2025. He faces charges including the abduction of a minor for sexual exploitation. The case unfolded when local authorities, collaborating with social services in Nong Khai, managed to rescue the young victim. The girl had reportedly been confined in a local residence. Through detailed investigations, it was uncovered that she encountered Mr Yannick while visiting her mother, who worked at a beer bar in the area. It is alleged that Mr Yannick coerced the minor into performing sexual acts at a hotel. Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Critical evidence surfaced via financial transactions that linked Mr Yannick to these criminal activities, prompting authorities to intensify their search. This led to his discovery and arrest at a condominium in Pattaya’s Sukhumvit area. He is currently being transported back to Nong Khai, where he will face prosecution under Thai law. The investigation remains ongoing, as police aim to arrest any further individuals connected to this case. Authorities are determined to extend the inquiry to ensure that all parties involved are apprehended and held accountable. This arrest underscores Thailand's commitment to combating child exploitation and protecting vulnerable individuals. Law enforcement agencies continue to work tirelessly to dismantle such criminal networks and bring offenders to justice. Community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to aid law enforcement efforts in safeguarding minors and preventing exploitation. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siam Rath 2025-06-09

Thaksin's Triple Trouble: Pheu Thai Faces High-Stakes Challenges Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra arrives at the office of narcotics control board in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, May 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) This week's political spotlight in Thailand centres around three major events tied to former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, posing potential threats to the stability of the Pheu Thai-led government. On the agenda are critical meetings on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday that might test the resilience of key national institutions and the government's credibility. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363064-thaksins-triple-trouble-pheu-thai-faces-high-stakes-challenges/

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra arrives at the office of narcotics control board in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, May 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) This week's political spotlight in Thailand centres around three major events tied to former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, posing potential threats to the stability of the Pheu Thai-led government. On the agenda are critical meetings on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday that might test the resilience of key national institutions and the government's credibility. The first of these pivotal events is the Medical Council of Thailand's (MCT) meeting, set to take place on June 12. Members will vote on whether to uphold their disciplinary actions against three doctors accused of misusing their positions to benefit Thaksin. Previously, they helped facilitate Thaksin's hospital stay instead of him serving his sentence in prison. While the MCT originally suspended the licences of two doctors and issued a warning to another, Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin vetoed these decisions, raising questions about political interference. The MCT's reaffirmation of their initial resolution could signal a stand against political pressure. The next day, the Supreme Court is scheduled to commence its inquiry into the Department of Corrections' decision to allow Thaksin's confinement in a hospital rather than a prison cell. This investigation seeks to determine whether undue privileges were extended to Thaksin, shedding light on potential biases in the justice system. Questions around the legitimacy of Thaksin's hospitalisation, possible misconduct by officials, and the former prime minister's potential court appearance are all areas of interest. These proceedings could set significant legal precedents regarding the treatment of political figures within the judicial system. Capping off the series of events is the June 14 Thai–Cambodian Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) meeting in Phnom Penh. This gathering follows heightened military tensions after a deadly border clash in late May. Accusations between Thai and Cambodian forces have escalated nationalistic sentiments, complicating diplomatic efforts. Thai military officials accuse Cambodia of territorial breaches, prompting tighter border controls. The government's approach, perceived by some as lenient due to Thaksin's historical ties with former Cambodian prime minister Hun Sen, is under scrutiny. The outcome of the JBC meeting may influence Thailand's geopolitical stance and domestic confidence in the government's leadership. Collectively, these events highlight the complex interplay of legal, political, and international pressures circling Thaksin and his impactful legacy on current Thai politics. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-06-09

Anutin Refutes Cabinet Shake-up Rumours, Stays as Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. Picture courtesy of Thai Rath Amid swirling rumours of a cabinet reshuffle, Anutin Charnvirakul has confirmed he will maintain his role as Thailand's Interior Minister. Anutin, also a Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, asserts that no talks have occurred about his replacement, dismissing speculation following lobbying from other political factions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363059-anutin-refutes-cabinet-shake-up-rumours-stays-as-interior-minister/

Anutin Charnvirakul. Picture courtesy of Thai Rath Amid swirling rumours of a cabinet reshuffle, Anutin Charnvirakul has confirmed he will maintain his role as Thailand's Interior Minister. Anutin, also a Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, asserts that no talks have occurred about his replacement, dismissing speculation following lobbying from other political factions. There have been whispers of Anutin's position being handed over to a Pheu Thai member after former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra implied the interior ministry's efforts require reassessment. Many interpreted Thaksin's remarks as indicating potential change. Nonetheless, Anutin stands firm, insisting his party's ministers are performing efficiently, and does not anticipate any alterations amid the coalition arrangement established when the former PM Srettha Thavisin took office. Clarifying further, Anutin underscored the stability of his alliance with the current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, saying, "Bhumjaithai did not seek to join the government; Pheu Thai invited us. Our collaboration with two prime ministers has been harmonious." Rebuffing a proposed trade of his position for another cabinet role, he affirmed this arrangement remains intact and crucial to Bhumjaithai. In response to budding reports of a potential meeting involving United Thai Nation (UTN) party members to discuss reshuffling cabinet positions, Anutin categorically denied such claims. He acknowledged meeting UTN leaders Pirapan Salirathavibhaga and Akanat Promphan on 1st June, but clarified that it was to deliberate on energy production challenges, with no ulterior talks about reshuffling cabinets. With Mr Pirapan serving as Energy Minister and Mr Akanat as Industry Minister, Anutin underscored that no renegotiation of agreements has been discussed since July 2023. "We have settled on a deal and anticipate steady governance until our terms are complete in the next two years," he confidently noted. Anutin’s assertions underline a commitment to consistency and continuity within the government coalition, aiming to dispel any brewing uncertainty over Thai political leadership. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-06-09

Thaksin Shinawatra's Perceived Privilege Rocks Thai Government Thaksin Shinawatra //File photo Public support is waning over Thaksin Shinawatra’s prison bypass, rocking the government's foundation, reveals a new poll. The alleged favouritism shown to former PM Thaksin starkly questions the government's longevity, according to fresh data from the National Institute of Development Administration. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363058-thaksin-shinawatras-perceived-privilege-rocks-thai-government/

Thaksin Shinawatra //File photo Public support is waning over Thaksin Shinawatra’s prison bypass, rocking the government's foundation, reveals a new poll. The alleged favouritism shown to former PM Thaksin starkly questions the government's longevity, according to fresh data from the National Institute of Development Administration. Surveying 1,310 individuals across multiple demographics, the poll captures brewing public sentiment between 3-5 June. Of those polled, a compelling 29.62% foresee Thaksin's case heavily undermining governmental stability. A close 29.31% anticipate some impact, while 24.58% predict no fallout. Notably, 15.73% see a minor ripple, and a tiny fraction of 0.76% remain indifferent or unopinionated on the matter. This drama ensues as Thaksin reappeared in Thailand in August 2023 after 15 years in exile, instantly seeing his eight-year prison term reduced to a mere year, courtesy of royal clemency. Nevertheless, Thaksin’s penitentiary stint was swiftly cut short; he instead enjoyed the comforts of a VIP hospital room, justified by age and health claims, before gaining parole by February 2024. Tensions rise further with the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division demanding an inquiry on 30 April into the correctness of Thaksin's jail term management. This pivotal hearing is set for 13 June, anticipated to shed light on these murky waters. Besides shaking political trust, the saga extends its doubting hand towards the medical field. The Medical Council of Thailand brought disciplinary measures against three practitioners involved in Thaksin's care, with two seeing licence suspensions for their subpar professional conduct. Echoing these concerns, the poll shows 38.40% of respondents losing faith in the medical practice. Conversely, 30.84% still hold trust in the medical community, whereas 15.95% have completely lost faith, leaving 14.20% with unwavering confidence and a minuscule 0.61% opting out of response. This unfolding debacle casts a shadow on both political integrity and public confidence in healthcare standards in Thailand, drawing the gaze of an attentive and increasingly disillusioned populace. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-06-09

Phuket Police Hunt Foreigners After Brutal Assault on Mall Security Guard Picture courtesy of Thai Rath Authorities in Phuket are on the hunt for two foreigners who severely assaulted a security guard after he advised them not to urinate in front of a shopping mall. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363056-phuket-police-hunt-foreigners-after-brutal-assault-on-mall-security-guard/

Picture courtesy of Thai Rath Authorities in Phuket are on the hunt for two foreigners who severely assaulted a security guard after he advised them not to urinate in front of a shopping mall. The incident has sparked public outrage following a post by "Phuket Times" on social media, describing how two foreigners ignored warnings from a security guard in Patong, leading to the guard being violently attacked. Despite another security guard intervening, the aggressors fled the scene, leaving the victim hospitalised and unconscious. Lieutenant Visanu Chumee, an investigator from Patong Police, confirmed reports from the victim, 18-year-old Ruslan Uma, related to the incident on 7th June 2025. Ruslan was performing his duties when he encountered the foreigners urinating near the mall. After he intervened, the first foreigner punched him twice in the face and slammed him to the ground. Another foreigner joined in the assault before both fled. Following the attack, Ruslan was encouraged by investigators to undergo further medical examination at Patong Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment. His condition has stabilised, although he remains under observation due to head trauma. Ruslan’s sister expressed her distress over the attack and is urging the police to apprehend the culprits swiftly. She revealed that doctors have found internal bleeding in Ruslan’s brain, necessitating further tests and highlighting the gravity of his injuries. She hopes for a thorough legal response to the incident. -5905453899481218043.mp4.e6a5937a04b645492a29109cb6843a6e.mp4 Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Rath 2025-06-09

British Sailor Overboard Near Cape Yamu Prompts Urgent Search Picture courtesy of Facebook/Phuket Times On 8th June 2025, at 10:40 a.m., the Third Region Naval Operations Centre was alerted by Adisorn Bannanob, captain of the yacht DE MAREFT, registered in Langkawi, about a British crewman, Mr. Endnaler Johnson, who had fallen overboard at 2:45 a.m. The incident occurred approximately one nautical mile north of Cape Yamu. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363054-british-sailor-overboard-near-cape-yamu-prompts-urgent-search/

Picture courtesy of Facebook/Phuket Times PHUKET - On 8th June 2025, at 10:40 a.m., the Third Region Naval Operations Centre was alerted by Adisorn Bannanob, captain of the yacht DE MAREFT, registered in Langkawi, about a British crewman, Mr. Endnaler Johnson, who had fallen overboard at 2:45 a.m. The incident occurred approximately one nautical mile north of Cape Yamu. In response, Vice Admiral Suwat Donsakul, Director of the Third Region Naval Operations Centre, swiftly mobilised vessel T.272 to the location provided. A search was conducted using SAR MAP plans calculated by the centre, with coordination from nearby maritime organisations and local yacht clubs. For maritime emergencies or to report incidents at sea, contact the Third Region Command Centre on their 24-hour hotline at 1465. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Phuket Times 2025-06-09

UPDATE: Mystery of B12M Cash Near Nonthaburi Condo Bin Unfolds Picture courtesy of Thai Rath A whopping 12 million baht has been discovered in an unexpected place – near a condo bin in Nonthaburi. The cash, encased in a plastic box, was found by a resident on Friday evening, prompting immediate police investigation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1362900-thai-woman-finds-abandoned-box-with-12-million-baht-in-condo-waste-area/page/2/#findComment-19857333