political

  • Thailand News

    Thailand and France forge future partnerships

    Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and France President Emmanuel Macron united in Paris, pledging to fortify relations spanning diverse domains and to invigorate a symbiotic alliance between their nations. During a joint press conference, Macron accentuated the importance of economic collaboration and trade synergies, emphasising proactive preparation for forthcoming challenges in Southeast Asia. He articulated the pivotal role of robust bilateral…

  • Thailand News

    PM Srettha’s international trips sparks questions

    Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been travelling the world at an unprecedented pace, with trips clocking up significant air miles. Since assuming office in September last year, PM Srettha has been on more overseas trips than the average travel blogger. In a whirlwind 176 days in office, the Bangkok-born PM has been constantly hopping between continents. His itinerary reads…

  • Thailand News

    PM Srettha strikes deals in Parisian power play

    Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin made waves in Paris as he orchestrated a series of high-stakes meetings with France’s business elite. From fashion to automotive technology, the 62 year old Thai PM’s mission was clear: to solidify Thailand’s status as a regional powerhouse for trade and innovation. Kicking off his jam-packed schedule yesterday morning, PM Srettha delved into talks with Sébastien…

  • Thailand News

    Thailand apologises to India for comments on rice export policy

    A formal apology to India has been issued by Thailand, following inappropriate comments made by Thailand’s World Trade Organisation (WTO) ambassador regarding India’s rice export policy. The comments were made during the 13th Ministerial Conference of the WTO in the United Arab Emirates. Phumtham Wechayachai, the Commerce Minister of Thailand, confirmed the apology. The Indian government received a written apology…

  • Thailand News

    Thailand escapes ‘not free’ label despite election chaos

    Thailand’s surge from the shackles of “not free” to “partly free” status in the annual Freedom House survey has sent ripples across the globe. Despite a rocky electoral journey that left many questioning the integrity of the democratic process, the Land of Smiles defies the odds, prompting scrutiny and speculation. Freedom House, a Washington DC-based non-profit organisation championing democracy and…

  • Thailand News

    Taiwan halts group tours to China amid escalating tensions

    Travel agents in Taiwan have been ordered to cease organising new group tours to China as tensions between Beijing and Taipei continue to escalate. Despite China reopening its borders to other popular tourist destinations post-pandemic, Taiwan remains excluded from the list of approved destinations for Chinese nationals. Since the end of the pandemic, China has gradually allowed its citizens to…

  • Thailand News

    Clean sweep: German president and Thai PM forge ties

    In a diplomatic meeting, German President Dr Frank-Walter Steinmeier met with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today, with promises for a cleaner, more empowered Thailand. Amidst discussions held at the Santi Maitree Building within the Government House compound, President Steinmeier pledged unwavering support for Thailand’s green ambitions. Government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke revealed that the German president committed to projects aimed at…

  • Thailand News

    PM Srettha: Digital wallet scheme will go ahead despite postponement

    The eagerly anticipated 500 billion baht digital wallet handout scheme, publicised as the government’s economic lifeline, faces an unexpected delay. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced yesterday, January 19, that the launch of the 500-billion-baht initiative will be postponed pending an inquiry by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). Brushing off rumours of incorporating the scheme into the 2025 budget, PM Srettha…

  • Thailand News

    PM Srettha discusses direct flights from Brussels to Bangkok at WEF

    At the 54th World Economic Forum in Davos, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin met Belgium Prime Minister Alexander De Croo to discuss stronger ties between the two nations at the Congress Centre on January 17. Coming out of the high-profile meeting, the prime minister-cum-finance minister pledged to explore the prospect of direct flights between Brussels and Bangkok with the involvement of…

  • Thailand News

    MFP MP Suphanat makes recommendations to improvements at Mo Chit 2

    Move Forward Party (MFP) MP for Bangkok District 9 Suphanat Minchainan made recommendations for improving the escalators and lifts at Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal. Suphanat suggested that the deputy minister of transport and executives should listen to service users in terms of the issues that have arisen regarding the station and that they shouldn’t rely on their judgment. He…

  • Thailand News

    Three ex-Bhumjaithai MPs banned by Supreme Court

    The Supreme Court delivered a harsh blow to three former Bhumjaithai MPs, slamming them with a 10-year ban from contesting elections. Chalong Thirdweerapong, Phumisak Kongmee, and Natee Ratchakitprakarn were all found guilty of a severe breach of parliamentary ethics. The court’s ruling, based on a parallel case in the Criminal Court, unveils a scandalous scheme. On May 18 last year, the…

  • Thailand News

    From beauty queen to brave MP: Sirilapas Kongtrakarn’s inspiring battle against depression

    In a plea for increased public funding for mental health services, Move Forward Party (MFP) MP Sirilapas Kongtrakarn, also known as Mew, spoke unreservedly during a passionate parliamentary debate on the budget bill last Friday, January 5. The 36 year old politician, who has been an advocate for mental health, shared her harrowing journey with depression, calling for attention and…

  • Thailand News

    Election disinformation: Threat on integrity and democracy

    A staggering 87% of 8,000 respondents across 16 countries, bracing for elections in 2024, are deeply concerned about the impact of disinformation on the integrity of their democratic process. A shocking 47% are very concerned, unveiling a digital battlefield that poses a grave threat to the core of democracy. According to UNESCO-IPSOS, their Global Survey of Online Disinformation and Hate…

  • Thailand News

    Thai PM in talks at Mekong-Lancang video conference

    Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin catapulted Thailand into the heart of Mekong-Lancang Cooperation (MLC) during the 4th Leaders’ Meeting on December 25, seizing the virtual stage with an unprecedented proposal for a shared future of peace and prosperity. Government Spokesperson Chai Wacharonke set the tone, declaring the event under the theme, Join Hands on the Building of a Community of Shared…

  • Thailand News

    Thailand and Malaysia join forces to boost economy

    Thailand and Malaysia have forged an alliance to supercharge development in the southern Thai region and the northern Malaysian peninsula. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reveals this game-changing commitment after a late-night summit with Thai counterpart Srettha Thavisin in Phuket. Anwar took to Facebook to reveal the details. “A special joint committee at the highest level between the two countries will…

  • Thailand News

    Pheu Thai MP in hot water for illicit online campaigning

    The Election Commission (EC) has unleashed legal fury upon Pattana Sapso, the Pheu Thai Party MP for Sakhon Nakhon. The EC’s crackdown comes in the wake of a damning investigation revealing Pattana’s alleged breach of election laws by engaging in prohibited online canvassing just hours before the crucial May 14 general election. The EC’s official statement, released on December 8,…

  • Thailand News

    Uzbek consul general discusses trade and tourism potential with Phuket governor

    Fakhriddin Sultanov, the Consul General of the Republic of Uzbekistan, made a courtesy visit to the Governor of Phuket, Sophon Suwannarat, yesterday, December 14. The visit marked a momentous occasion for Sultanov as it was his 36th trip to the popular Thai island. The delegation was warmly greeted, and the meeting was aimed at discussing potential cooperation between Phuket and…

  • China News

    Hong Kong civil servants face fury if they dare criticise government

    Hong Kong‘s civil servants are set to face disciplinary action if they openly criticise government policies. The proposed changes to the code of conduct have ignited a firestorm of controversy, with restrictions on comments both in their official capacity and as ordinary residents. Under the unveiled amendments, civil servants must now uphold political neutrality as one of 12 core values,…

  • Thailand News

    Thai-Saudi economic extravaganza: Mega Fair 2023 takes Riyadh by storm

    The Thailand Mega Fair 2023 descended upon the Arena Riyadh, heralding a four-day fiesta of premium Thai products and services that has the Saudi Arabian capital buzzing with excitement until Saturday, December 16. Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, doubling as deputy prime minister, kicked off the festivities with an inauguration that not only marked the start of the grand event but…

  • Crime News

    Three Japanese ministers resign amidst 124 million baht kickback controversy

    Three high-ranking Japanese government ministers have thrown in the towel amidst a whopping 500 million yen (124 million baht) corruption scandal. The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), the stalwart ruling force in the world’s third-largest economy, is now grappling with the fallout from allegations that could reshape the nation’s political future. In a seismic blow to the political establishment, three top-tier…

  • China News

    Xi Jinping’s game-changing Vietnam visit: Unprecedented power plays

    China‘s President Xi Jinping descended upon Vietnam for a two-day spectacle, strategically timed just three months after US President Joe Biden‘s high-profile visit. The Chinese president kicked off his much-anticipated two-day sojourn in Vietnam on December 12, marking his first visit to the nation in six years. The intricate dance of diplomacy has been underway for months, with initial contemplation…

  • Politics News

    Malaysia PM reshuffles Cabinet: Second finance minister appointed

    Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim orchestrated a Cabinet reshuffle, unveiling a strategic plan to fortify his administration and rebuild public confidence, just one year into his tenure. In a much-anticipated move, Anwar unveiled five new ministerial appointments, expanding the Cabinet’s reach to navigate the challenges of today and confront global shifts, notably the surge of artificial intelligence. The headline change…

  • Thailand News

    Xinjiang violence: China soughts international media to counter claims

    China has opened its doors to a number of international media organisations to showcase its claimed victory in quelling terrorism-related violence in its troubled region, Xinjiang. A senior journalist from Bangkok Post, Mongkol Bangprapa, who also presides over the Thai Journalists Association, was among the 22 guests invited. The delegates were predominantly from 17 countries involved in China’s Belt and…

  • Politics News

    Rise in Thai gun ownership raises alarm after Siam Paragon murders

    The tragic shooting which claimed the lives of two women at the Siam Paragon shopping mall in Bangkok sparked public concern over how a young man could obtain firearms. More startling was the discovery of a trove of guns and ammunition at the young man’s residence, along with videos of him expertly demonstrating gun use. This incident has raised questions…

  • Thailand News

    Patongtharn Shinawatra tipped as new Pheu Thai Party leader

    Anusorn Iamsa-ard, a list MP of the Pheu Thai Party, believes that Patongtharn Shinawatra is suitable to take over as the new head of the Pheu Thai Party. He sees her as capable of leading the party to become a dependable political institution for the people. On the matter of the Pheu Thai Party’s general meeting on September 27, Anusorn…

  • Thailand News

    MFP faces corruption probe over contentious Deputy House Speaker expulsion

    The Move Forward Party (MFP) has come under scrutiny in a corruption probe following the contentious expulsion of Deputy House Speaker Padipat Santipada. Known activist Srisuwan Janya announced his intention to petition the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to investigate the incident. The MFP’s move was viewed with suspicion, with Srisuwan and several political observers deeming it a tactic to simultaneously…

  • Thailand News

    MFP ousts deputy speaker in controversial political manoeuvre

    Political manoeuvres have seen Deputy House Speaker Padipat Santipada ousted from the Move Forward Party (MFP), a strategic move that preserves the position for MFP allies while the party transitions into its new function as the primary opposition party. This was the consensus amongst politicians and academics alike. Padipat, having been given an ultimatum by the MFP, made the decision…

  • Thailand News

    MFP elects Chaithawat Tulathon as leader amid Pita MP status uncertainty

    Previously the secretary general of the Move Forward Party (MFP), Chaithawat Tulathon was elected as the new leader, succeeding Pita Limjaroenrat. Pita resigned amid ongoing uncertainty regarding his Member of Parliament status. Chaithawat, however, indicated this may be a temporary measure, as he and the new executive committee members are prepared to step aside, should Pita be able to resume…

  • Thailand News

    Charter changes referendum has MFP concerned about government’s procrastination

    The potential referendum concerning changes to the charter sparked concerns as the Move Forward Party (MFP) suggests the government is procrastinating. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai tasked with forming a panel to study the referendum plans, stated that discussions about the referendum’s necessity are still ongoing. This announcement came after the Cabinet’s first meeting this week. The focus of the Cabinet’s…

  • Thailand News

    Scandal unearthed: Thai minister’s wife faces corruption charges over 20 million baht construction project

    Rodjana Kantinan, the spouse of Kriang Kantinan, Deputy Interior Minister and a member of the Pheu Thai Party, is currently under investigation for allegations of malfeasance surrounding a construction project. The project in question unfolded in 2012 during Rodjana’s tenure as the Mayor of Nakhon Ubon Ratchathani Municipality, situated within the Ubon Ratchathani province. Isranews Agency reported on Monday that…

  • Thailand News

    Thai government to revoke redundant NCPO directives, streamlining functions

    The Government of Thailand has initiated plans to consult the Council of State, its legal advisory body, on revoking certain directives and proclamations issued by the now-disbanded National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO). Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, announced this move, citing that some of the NCPO’s orders are currently redundant or seen as hindrances to the smooth operation of government…

  • Thailand News

    Thai PM ‘splits’ salary option sparks debate among civil servants

    Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin yesterday responded to criticisms surrounding the recent Cabinet resolution, which offers civil servants the option of receiving their monthly salary in two instalments instead of the usual single payment. The resolution, primarily aimed at stimulating the economy, was unveiled during the first Cabinet meeting of his administration on Wednesday and is tentatively set to start in January.…

  • Thailand News

    Activists demand ex-PM Thaksin’s return to prison amid health condition scepticism

    A coalition of political activists and reform campaigners, led by Pichit Chaimongkol, yesterday demanded the reinstatement of public faith in the rule of law. They have urged Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to ensure the re-incarceration of former prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra. The 74 year old former PM, who recently returned from a 15-year self-imposed exile on August 22, had a…

  • Business News

    Trading troubles: Thai stock market feels pinch of political uncertainties amid global rate rumbles

    The Thai stock market remains under pressure from domestic political uncertainties, despite a halt in US interest rate hikes and a recent rate cut in China. The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) index continued its downward trend, closing at 1,557.71 points, a 0.22% decrease from the previous day. In contrast, several Asian stock markets experienced gains, with Hong Kong’s Hang…

  • Business News

    Industry blues: Thailand’s TISI takes a double dip, blaming government formation woes

    The Thailand Industry Sentiment Index (TISI) suffered another setback after experiencing a decline for the second month in a row, partly due to uncertainties surrounding the formation of a new coalition government. In May, the TISI dropped to 92.5 points from 95 in April. Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), cited issues in setting up a…

  • Crime News

    Man claims political ties, dines and dashes at Pattaya restaurant

    There’s been a dine and dash incident in Thailand. In Pattaya, a man claiming to know with a prominent politician allegedly left a local Thai restaurant without paying his bill, which amounted to nearly a thousand baht. Jinwara Rebedef, the owner of the ‘Gin Gab Gia’ restaurant on Thepprasit Road, spoke to The Pattaya News about the incident and provided CCTV…