Politics News
Thailand politics news, government updates, policy changes, and election coverage—stay informed on key political events, leaders, and decisions shaping the nation. Get the latest from The Thaiger, your trusted source for political news in Thailand.
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Sponsored How one hospital visit in Thailand could cost more than your whole trip
Thailand is a favourite spot for travellers who want to enjoy more while spending less. From cheap street food to low-cost hotels and fun attractions, it’s easy to stretch your budget here. But there’s one thing many people don’t think...
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EC persists in Thaksin investigation despite court ruling
The Election Commission (EC) remains steadfast in its investigation into allegations against former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, focusing on claims of his manipulation of the Pheu Thai Party and interference in the coalition government. This action continues despite the Constitutional Court’s recent decision to dismiss a petition accusing Thaksin and the ruling party of attempting to overthrow Thailand’s constitutional monarchy.…
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Bangkok allocates 14.54 billion baht to settle BTS Skytrain debt
The Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMC) has sanctioned a substantial budget of 14.54 billion baht for the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to address its debt to Bangkok Mass Transit System Plc (BTSC), the operator of the city’s BTS Skytrain. This decision follows a proposal submitted by Bangkok’s governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, during a BMC meeting. Chadchart presented a draft ordinance requesting the…
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Deputy minister’s bold plan to quench Phuket’s water woes
Phuket’s water crisis may soon be a thing of the past, thanks to a fresh action plan unveiled during Deputy Minister of Interior Sabida Thaiseth’s recent visit. Arriving in Phuket for a two-day official tour, Sabida dove into long-term strategies to secure the island’s water supply, a critical issue that has plagued the region for years. The briefing took place…
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Thai court dismisses petition against Thaksin for lack of evidence
Thailand’s Constitutional Court has unanimously dismissed a petition against Thaksin Shinawatra and the Pheu Thai Party, citing a lack of credible evidence. This petition, filed by Teerayut Suwankesorn, accused the former prime minister and his party of undermining the constitutional monarchy under Article 49 of the Constitution. The court’s decision, made yesterday, November 22, closes the chapter on these allegations,…
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Thai welfare cardholders must verify eligibility by December 26
Thailand’s Ministry of Finance is urging 1 million holders of the state welfare card to verify their eligibility and confirm their identity by December 26 to secure their benefits. These individuals, part of the 14.5 million registered cardholders, have not yet confirmed their identity, leaving their welfare benefits unclaimed. Julaphan Amornvivat, Deputy Minister of Finance, announced this following a meeting…
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Highway expansion boosts Bangkok-eastern Thailand connection
Highway 3481, a vital route connecting Bangkok to eastern provinces such as Chachoengsao and Prachin Buri, has undergone a significant upgrade. The road has been expanded from two lanes to four, a development aimed at easing transport between the bustling capital and the eastern regions. This expansion, executed by the Department of Highways, is set to enhance travel within the…
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Thaksin’s hospital treatment probe faces authority limits: Committee
A House committee investigating allegations of special treatment for former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra during his detention at Police General Hospital (PGH) faces limitations in its authority. The Department of Corrections clarified that the committee cannot summon Thaksin or related agencies to testify. Chaired by Rangsiman Rome, an MP from the opposition People’s Party, the committee on state security, border…
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Interior ministry allocates 56 million baht for Surat Thani marshland
Thailand’s Ministry of Interior approved a budget of over 56 million baht for the fiscal year 2025 to develop the Khlong Khwai marshland, aiming to create a new green space for the people of Surat Thani province. Kanisini Opasrangsank, a Member of Parliament for Constituency 1 in Surat Thani and Deputy Secretary-General of the United Thai Nation Party, along with…
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Phuket and Indonesia strengthen ties to support local community
Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat recently welcomed Suarganana Pringganu, the Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia, to discuss strengthening cooperation and support for the Indonesian community in Phuket. This meeting, held at Phuket Provincial Hall, underscored the importance of nurturing bilateral relations and addressing significant issues such as the welfare and repatriation of Indonesian citizens. During the discussions, Pringganu acknowledged…
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Labour icon John Prescott dies at 86, leaves lasting legacy (video)
The world has bid a fond farewell to controversial former British Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott, who died at the age of 86. Prescott, a political firebrand, and a cornerstone of Tony Blair’s New Labour movement was a custodian of traditional Labour values. He died peacefully in a care home, surrounded by his beloved family and the soothing melodies of…
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Thailand slips in global digital race: Urgent tech policy shake-up
Thailand’s digital prowess took a hit, dropping two spots to 37th globally in the World Digital Competitiveness Ranking 2024. The ranking, published by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD), evaluated 67 countries and economic zones across three key metrics: knowledge, technology, and future readiness. With an overall score of 65.45, Thailand is now third in digital competitiveness in the…
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Thailand set to rock world stage with plans to boost events scene
Thailand is getting ready to rock the world stage with a grand plan to revitalise its events infrastructure, turning it into a prime destination for global sports and entertainment. Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong outlined an ambitious vision to transform Bangkok’s National Stadium into a state-of-the-art multi-function stadium, poised to host everything from international sports competitions to blockbuster concerts.…
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Thailand partners with Turkey to build high-speed rail empire
Thailand is gearing up to transform its rail landscape by partnering with Turkey’s state-owned train manufacturer, Türasaş, in a bold step towards high-speed travel. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit revealed on Monday, November 18, that the collaboration aims to boost Thailand’s transport sector and establish a domestic rail manufacturing industry. During his recent visit to Türasaş’s Sakarya facility in Turkey, Suriya…
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Sky’s the limit: RTAF aims to reach new heights with space plans
The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is looking to take Thailand’s defences to new heights. Plans are underway for a bold rebranding as the Royal Thai Air Force and Space alongside the creation of a new unit aimed at safeguarding Thailand’s air and space interests. This strategic move, announced by RTAF spokesperson Air Marshal Prapas Sornjaidee yesterday, November 19, highlights Thailand’s…
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Pattaya revamps park to oust venomous visitors near residence
Residents near Jeh Madi Mansion, close to Soi Sukhumvit 28 and Bangkok Hospital Pattaya, raised the alarm over unwelcome slithery neighbours – venomous creatures lurking a little too close to home. In response, Deputy Mayor Manot Nongyai, flanked by local council members and city officials, launched an emergency renovation project yesterday, November 19, clearing out the public area to improve…
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Thai lottery draw dates changed to accomodate new year holidays
The Thai Government Lottery Office (GLO) announced a change in the schedule for two upcoming lottery draws. The draw initially set for December 30, will now take place on January 2, 2025, due to the new year festivities. This adjustment allows for a more suitable timing, providing 17 days for the sale of lottery tickets for this particular draw. The…
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GLO hosts Chiang Mai lottery draw to boost transparency
The Government Lottery Office (GLO) of Thailand is set to conduct a lottery draw in Chiang Mai province on December 1. This initiative aims to enhance transparency in the lottery process and methods, offering the public an opportunity to witness the proceedings firsthand. The lottery draw, set for December 1, will take place at the Chiang Mai International Exhibition and…
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Cheers: Thai hotels to offer 24-hour alcohol service over new year
Hotel guests will soon enjoy the convenience of ordering alcoholic beverages to their rooms at any time over the new year period. This change, sanctioned by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board, was announced following their recent meeting. Somsak Thepsutin, the Public Health Minister, led the approval for this adjustment, which allows hotel patrons unrestricted access to alcohol from in-house bars…
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Phuket succuessfully tests new mobile emergency alert system
The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), and the Phuket Provincial Office, successfully trialled the Cell Broadcast mobile emergency warning system. The trial, conducted yesterday, November 19, at the Chao Fah Meeting Room in Phuket Provincial Hall, was led by Vice Governor Adul Chuthong and witnessed by key figures, including Nattapol Natthasomboon, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital…
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Thai news presenter sparks concern by drinking tap water on air (video)
A political debate concerning the potability of tap water in Bangkok sparked significant public attention. Renowned news presenter Sorayuth Suthassanachinda decided to test this claim himself by drinking a glass of tap water, leading to an array of reactions from concerned viewers. Sorayuth, a popular figure in Thai media, addressed the issue of drinkable tap water during his programme กรรมกรข่าว…
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Attorney General throws out coup accusation against Thaksin
In a bold move that’s shaking up Thai politics, the Attorney General’s Office (AGO) has flatly refused to process a high-stakes case accusing former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and the ruling Pheu Thai Party of attempting to overthrow Thailand’s democratic system with the King as Head of State. According to a news source, the case was dismissed today, November 19, …
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Trump and Thailand: PM Paetongtarn pledges to strengthen ties
In a historic phone call, Thailand’s youngest Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, reached out to congratulate US President-elect Donald Trump on his election victory, underscoring Thailand’s commitment to a robust alliance with Washington. The conversation, which took place at 9.50am today, November 19, as disclosed by government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsub, marks an early push to fortify diplomatic and economic ties between…
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Somchai tees off at Thai PM to settle Alpine Golf land dispute
In a blistering call to action, former senator Somchai Sawangkarn has once more urged Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to decisively tackle a fiery land dispute around Alpine Golf Course that’s been simmering for far too long. In his third open letter, Somchai implores the Thai premier to show true grit and integrity, insisting that the nation’s wellbeing is at stake.…
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Thaksin leads critical local election battle in northeast Thailand
The upcoming Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) chief election in Udon Thani has drawn national attention as Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential figure behind the ruling Pheu Thai Party, leads campaign efforts against the emerging People’s Party challenger. The November 24 election pits Pheu Thai’s candidate Sarawut Petchpanomporn against the People’s Party’s Kanisorn Khurirangon in what analysts view as a significant test…
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Thailand’s Marriage Equality Bill to boost GDP and tourism
Thailand’s historic decision to legalise same-sex marriage, starting January 2025, is set to supercharge its tourism industry, drawing in millions of visitors and billions in revenue. According to a new study by digital travel platform Agoda, this legislative move is projected to bring in 4 million additional international visitors each year, driving up tourism revenues by an impressive US$2 billion…
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Police in Thailand to receive increased allowances this year
Police officers across Thailand are set to receive increased allowances this year, following a directive signed by Kittirat Phanpetch, the National Police Chief. The directive, dated Tuesday, November 12, emphasises the need for efficient budget management and cautions against any misallocation of funds. Kittirat issued the directive to various police divisions, including the Metropolitan Police Bureau and Provincial Police Regions…
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Pattaya City councillor ‘paves’ the way for safer roads
In a proactive move to address complaints over potentially dangerous road conditions, Pattaya City Council member Wutthithorn Saengurai inspected an ongoing road project on Sukhumvit Road near the South Pattaya intersection yesterday, November 14. Accompanied by top officials from the Drainage System Maintenance Division, Sanitary Engineering Division, and the Pattaya City Administration’s Complaint Reception Department, Wutthithorn responded to residents’ concerns…
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Constitutional amendment: PP proposes Senate removal in process
The People’s Party (PP) yesterday submitted a proposal aiming to remove the Senate from the constitutional amendment process, according to the House of Representatives’ secretariat. This is one of the 17 proposals put forth by the PP, targeting specific sections of the constitution for amendment. A central focus of these proposals is Section 256, which requires that any charter amendment…
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Thaksin under scrutiny for possible VIP hospital privileges
Thaksin Shinawatra, the former prime minister of Thailand, is set to be summoned by a parliamentary committee to address allegations regarding his treatment at the Police General Hospital during his detention. These claims suggest the 74 year old politician received special privileges while at the hospital, raising questions about the standard procedures typically followed for prisoners requiring medical attention. The…
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Experts demand green vision for Thailand’s smart cities
Smart cities must do more than shine with technology, they need to be green, open, and truly life-enhancing, experts emphasised at the Thailand Smart City Expo 2025 seminar, hosted by the Nation Group’s PostToday and Springnews. The event, held yesterday, November 12, gathered experts, public officials, and private sector leaders to shape Thailand’s future through sustainable urban development. Chula Sukmanop,…
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