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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TV tangle: MFP leader’s shareholding scandal sparks iTV’s clarification clash
In the midst of a Thai shareholding scandal involving Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat, iTV has released a statement to clarify inconsistencies between the official minutes from its annual shareholders’ meeting and a video taken on April 26. The central issue revolves around whether iTV is still operating in the media business, which could have implications for Pita’s…
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Thai election concerns rise due to prolonged ballot box transport in Buri Ram
Concerns have been raised over the prolonged transportation time of ballot boxes in Buri Ram, following the recent general Thai election. A group of ten complainants from Non Suwan and Nong Ki districts filed a request with the Election Commission’s Buri Ram office, questioning why it took four and a half hours to transport the ballot boxes across a 20-kilometre…
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Power struggle unfolds as MFP leader fights to claim prime ministerial seat
Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat today addressed allegations surrounding a contentious meeting of iTV shareholders and efforts to prevent him from becoming the next Prime Minister. While there is uncertainty about who is involved in these behind-the-scenes manoeuvres, the MFP’s legal team is gathering more evidence from those involved. Pita acknowledges that the upcoming legal battle could impede…
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Southern Thailand youth risk manipulation for political agendas
In Southern Thailand, concerns have been raised over the potential manipulation of young people for political purposes by certain groups. This follows a recent event organised by the Pelajar Bangsa “national student movement” where a controversial public vote on a potential separation from Thailand took place. The 4th Army Region has strongly condemned this move, calling it a threat to…
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NACC warns over 100 MPs yet to submit wealth declaration
According to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), over 100 current and former MPs, including Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat, have not yet submitted their wealth declaration following the House dissolution in March, as mandated by law. Since the House was dissolved on March 20, approximately 70% of the 500 MPs, or 384 members, have submitted their assets and…
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ITV dispute: Lawyer highlights alleged false evidence, who’s facing charges?
The recent disclosure of a video today from an ITV shareholders’ meeting has intensified scrutiny over the company’s operations and potential legal implications for stakeholders. Lawyer Decha Kittiwitthayanan made headlines after drawing attention to the inconsistencies between the meeting’s video footage and previously released reports, suggesting possible legal repercussions for those involved. Decha pointed out the clear discrepancy between the…
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PM orders action against activists seeking Muslim Pattani State referendum
The National Security Council (NSC) of Thailand has been instructed by outgoing Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to investigate a group of activists who called for a public referendum on the establishment of an independent Muslim ‘Pattani State‘ separate from Thailand. The demand for a referendum was made during a seminar titled “Self-determination,” which introduced the “National Student Movement” or “Pelajar…
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Ballot bafflement: Thai EC orders recounts in 47 polling stations after votes outnumber registered voters
The Election Commission (EC) of Thailand announced plans to conduct vote recounts in 47 polling stations across Thailand on June 11 as the number of ballots cast exceeded the number of registered voters. During a meeting held yesterday, the EC disclosed that out of the 95,000 polling stations nationwide, 31 stations will have their votes recounted for the party-list candidates,…
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MFP leader vows to tackle Bangkok’s traffic, flooding, and air pollution
In a meeting yesterday with Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, Move Forward Party (MFP) leader and prime ministerial candidate Pita Limjaroenrat pledged to address 21 major issues plaguing the capital city. These problems include traffic congestion, flooding, and PM 2.5 air pollution. The meeting was also attended by several MFP MPs-elect for Bangkok and Bangkok councillors, signalling a strong collaboration between…
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Pita Limjaroenrat’s PM bid threatened by iTV share controversy
Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of Thailand’s Move Forward Party (MFP), is facing a legal challenge regarding his ownership of shares in iTV, an independent broadcaster. Although he has transferred these shares to his relatives, legal expert Jade Donavanik has argued that Pita’s eligibility for the role of prime minister still hangs in the balance. The issue revolves around whether iTV…
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Prayut government accused of severe ethical breach over Thai constitution violation in torture law delay
The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) received a petition from the Thai Constitution Protection Association and officials of the May 1992 Heroes’ Relatives Committee. The petition accuses the government of PM Prayut Chan-o-cha, particularly Somkid Thepsuthin, the former Minister of Justice, of violating the Thai Constitution through the deliberate postponement of the implementation of the anti-torture and enforced disappearance law. Srisuwan…
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Thai MFP pledges higher welfare, minimum wage, and economic growth
The Move Forward Party (MFP) in Thailand announced its commitment to increasing welfare spending and raising the minimum wage, while simultaneously promoting economic growth through opening up the market to competition and reducing corruption. The Thai economy experienced a 2.6% growth last year as it gradually recovered from the global pandemic. The MFP, which is striving to lead a coalition after…
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Bangkok governor’s approval dips but majority satisfied, NIDA Poll reveals
A recent poll by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) reveals that most residents are content with the performance of Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt after his first year in office. However, the 57 year old’s approval rating experienced a decline compared to a similar survey conducted after his first six months. The poll involved a sample of 2,000 eligible…
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Move Forward Party opposes alcohol ban on Buddhist holidays
Prominent members of the Move Forward Party (MFP), which recently claimed victory in elections, have voiced their disagreement with the Thai government’s ban on alcohol sales during significant Buddhist holidays, arguing that it restricts freedom. Amarat Chokpamitkul, an MFP executive, expressed her disagreement with the prohibition of alcohol sales on Vesak Day, a holiday that marks the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment,…
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Illegal truck bribe stickers prompt Thai police chief to launch investigation
The existence of covert stickers indicating that trucks operating illegally on Thailand’s roads have paid bribes to police and other officials to avoid arrest has been confirmed by national police chief Pol Gen Damrongsak Kittiprapas. This revelation comes after the issue was raised by Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, a Move Forward Party list MP-elect. As a result, Pol Maj Gen Ekkaraj Limsangkat,…
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US-Taiwan trade deal signing set to escalate Beijing-Washington tensions
Taipei has announced that the United States and Taiwan are set to sign a trade agreement, a move that is expected to increase tensions between Beijing and Washington over the island. The Office of Trade Negotiations in Taipei stated that the first set of agreements under “The US-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade” would be signed in Washington, without providing…
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Democrat secretary-general to step down amid party leadership change
In a new development in Thai politics, Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Chalermchai Sri-on revealed his intention to resign as the Democrat secretary-general when the party selects its new leader and executives on July 13. The decision on whether a younger individual will be chosen as the new leader will be left to a party committee during the planned general assembly.…
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Pheu Thai leader denies backroom deals: High-ranking Parliamentary roles still up for grabs
The Pheu Thai leader denies allocating high-ranking Parliamentary roles for his party, asserting that discussions are still ongoing to fill key positions. Despite rumours of potential nominees, Pheu Thai chief Chonlanan Srikaew maintains that no final decision has been made. Chonlanan addressed the ongoing negotiations concerning the appointment of the President of the House of Representatives, stating that talks between his…
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Residents in Thailand rally against US interference, demand an end to meddling (video)
Chiang Mai residents expressed their concerns about the United States meddling in Thailand’s internal affairs and gathered outside the US consulate urging them to stop interfering. The Move Forward Party (MFP), led by the future Prime Minister Pita Limjaroenrat, garnered the highest number of votes from citizens across Thailand. As a result, the party is now making preparations to form…
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Thai minimum wage: Coalition parties and industry council engage in discussions
Eight Thai political parties agreed to support a Thai minimum wage increase to 450 baht (US$13) per day and continued discussions with the Federation of Thai Industries about moving the bill forward. Pita Limjaroenrat, leader of the Move Forward Party (MFP), emphasized the excellent cooperation within the coalition government. The MFP leader informed INN News that the atmosphere during the…
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China snubs US invitation for defence meeting in Singapore
China rejected a US proposal for a meeting in Singapore between Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin and his Chinese counterpart Li Shangfu, according to the Pentagon. The refusal to engage in military-to-military discussions raised concerns but the US Department of Defence remains committed to pursuing open lines of communication with the People’s Liberation Army. Pentagon spokesman Brigadier General Pat Ryder said……
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Thai parties pledge to tackle economic inequality, business groups sceptical
Business organisations have expressed support for the Move Forward Party’s campaign pledges to address economic inequality in Thailand, but they question the party’s ability to overcome long-standing issues. On May 22, eight political parties signed a memorandum of understanding, outlining 23 focal points for governing Thailand. These included a joint commitment to reducing inequality and promoting equitable economic growth. The…
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Thai election uncertainty raises concerns for small business owners
A record 39 million Thai citizens participated in the recent general election, with the Move Forward Party (MFP) emerging victorious. However, the recently amended constitution poses challenges for non-military political parties, and the MFP-led coalition still requires additional upper-house votes to secure the 376 seats needed for leadership. This has raised concerns about Thailand‘s political future and its economic prospects.…
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Ukraine thwarts Russia’s largest drone attack on Kyiv, president praises air defence
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky commended the country’s air defence forces following Russia’s most extensive drone attack on Kyiv since the conflict began. Zelensky referred to the forces as “heroes” after military leaders reported that the majority of the kamikaze drones deployed by Russia were intercepted. Regrettably, two individuals lost their lives, and several others were injured by debris. Russia has…
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Excise Department supports Move Forward Party’s Progressive Liquor Act
The deputy director-general of the Excise Department stated that the department’s liquor policy is in line with the Move Forward Party‘s Progressive Liquor Act. The proposed Act aims to liberalise liquor production, allowing both small and large producers to enter the market. Kriengkrai Pattanaporn explained that the proposal is consistent with the department’s policy, and there would be no objections if…
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MFP leader promises reasonable minimum wage increase without economic damage
Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat recently assured that a coalition government under his leadership would not immediately raise the minimum daily wage to 450 baht but would ensure a reasonable increase without causing damage to industry or the economy. Limjaroenrat, the party’s prime ministerial candidate, made this promise during a meeting with representatives of the Federation of Thai…
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China downplays Micron ban as individual case, not broader US firm targeting
China is attempting to mitigate the fallout from its recent decision to partially ban sales of US chipmaker Micron‘s products in the country on national security grounds. The ban has been challenged by Washington, which views it as a deliberate targeting of US businesses in response to export controls imposed on China. However, Chinese authorities, including the foreign ministry and…
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White House reports progress in talks to avert US debt default
The White House has reported some progress in the ongoing discussions with Republican negotiators to prevent a catastrophic US debt default before the June 1 deadline. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that both sides must understand that they won’t get everything they want. The talks between US President Joe Biden and Republicans in Congress are set to continue,…
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Democrats to elect new leader amid Abhisit and Watanya speculation
The Democrat Party is set to meet and establish guidelines for selecting a new leader, with Abhisit Vejjajiva and Watanya Bunnag, head of the party’s political innovations working group, being the potential candidates. Yesterday, party spokesperson Ramet Rattanachaweng announced that the caretaker executive panel would convene tomorrow to outline the process for choosing a new leader and appointing a new…
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China bans US Micron chips, escalating global chip industry risks
China’s recent ban on certain sectors using chips from United States-based Micron Technology has highlighted the potential risks faced by the global chip industry amidst rising Sino-US trade tensions. The move against Micron, the largest US memory chipmaker, is widely perceived as retaliation for Washington’s attempts to limit Beijing’s access to crucial technology. This comes as the Group of Seven…
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