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 Digital nomading in Chiang Mai? What US$1,000 a month really gets you
Chiang Mai has become a popular destination for digital nomads due to its low living costs, rich culture, and active remote work community. The city offers affordable housing, tasty food, reliable internet, and many co-working spaces, making it a great...
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Three referendums required for 2017 constitution rewrite
Three referendums are deemed necessary for a complete rewrite of the 2017 constitution, according to Nikorn Chamnong, the secretary of the joint House-Senate panel on the referendum bill. This statement directly counters the claim made by People’s Party list MP Parit Wacharasindhu, who suggested that only two referendums would be needed, a point he believed was backed by Parliament President…
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RTA denies tensions with UWSA in Mae Hong Son
Tensions between Thai military forces and the United Wa State Army (UWSA) in Mae Hong Son’s Pai district have been dismissed by the Royal Thai Army (RTA), contradicting recent media claims. Colonel Thirat Sombatsiri, the RTA spokesperson, firmly denied reports circulating on social media, asserting that the border remains tranquil without any confirmed incidents of violence. “The overall border situation…
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Thai PM and Energy Minister clash over clean energy vision
Tensions have erupted in Thailand’s government as Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga lock horns over the nation’s clean energy future. A disagreement, which has reportedly been simmering for weeks, boiled over yesterday, November 26, leading to the abrupt cancellation of a joint press conference following a National Energy Policy Board meeting. While PM Paetongtarn addressed the…
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Phuket motorists warned of road closure for power pole relocation
Motorists in Phuket have been advised to steer clear of Soi Cherng Talay 16 today, November 27, due to a planned closure for essential infrastructure work. The Cherng Talay Police issued a warning to avoid the area as power poles are scheduled to be relocated, impacting traffic flow throughout the day. The Thalang branch of the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA…
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Ceremony in Siam’s old capital celebrates historic Iranian scholar
The Iranian Embassy in Thailand hosted a ceremony commemorating Sheikh Ahmad Qomi, a historical figure credited with fostering cultural ties between Iran and Thailand, at his mausoleum in Ayutthaya province on November 23. The event, marking 70 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries, was joined by high-ranking Iranian and Thai officials, academics, researchers, and culture enthusiasts. Nasseredin Heidari,…
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Thai PM urges action to curb violence against women and children
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra called on the public to actively support government initiatives aimed at curbing violence against children and women. This appeal is part of the government’s annual anti-violence campaign, coinciding with National Violence Elimination Against Children and Women Month. Thailand designated November for this cause in 1999, aligning with the United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of…
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Pheu Thai secures Udon Thani election win, credits Thaksin
The Pheu Thai Party celebrated a significant victory in the recent Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) chairman election in Udon Thani, attributing the success largely to the influence of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. This triumph saw their candidate, Sarawut Pethpanomporn, secure a decisive win. Anusorn Iamsa-ard, a member of Parliament for Pheu Thai, highlighted the combination of Sarawut’s political experience…
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Tensions rise on Thai-Myanmar border over alleged incursion
The Thai-Myanmar border in the Pai district of the northern province of Mae Hong Son is experiencing heightened tensions after the United Wa State Army (UWSA), also known as Red Wa, reportedly encroached on Thai territory. ThaiRath reported today, November 26, that the Shan State National Army (SSNA) revealed the situation along the border at Doi Nong Luang and Doi…
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Thai PM yet to unveil new stimulus to boost economic growth
After nearly three months in office, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is poised to influence Thailand’s economic growth through a series of new stimulus proposals. These measures aim to address various economic challenges and are anticipated to be unveiled shortly. The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) recently projected Thailand’s GDP growth to be between 2.3% and 3.3% for 2025,…
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Thailand to expand child support to all under six years old
Thailand’s Ministry of Social Development and Human Security is poised to propose an expansion of the early childhood development scheme, with plans to present the child support proposal to the Cabinet shortly. The scheme aims to broaden its reach by extending financial support to all children under six years of age, enhancing the current system that aids children from impoverished…
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Former MP advocates for fair treatment in Yingluck’s planned return
Former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra plans to “face her legal obligations” in Thailand without requesting special treatment, according to Worachai Hema, an ex-member of Parliament for the Pheu Thai Party from Samut Prakan. Worachai, who serves on Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai’s advisory team, shared these insights following Thaksin Shinawatra’s media interview discussing his sister Yingluck’s anticipated return before Songkran 2025.…
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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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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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Thailand’s cash handout scheme faces scrutiny before elections
The second phase of Thailand’s 10,000-baht cash handout scheme is under scrutiny for potentially breaching legal boundaries, as the government plans to distribute the funds to four million elderly citizens during the Chinese New Year, just days before the Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) elections. This timing has sparked concerns about its potential influence on the upcoming election outcomes. Somchai Srisutthiyakorn,…
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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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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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Bangkok court drops Thai activist’s spyware suit: Amnesty
In a controversial ruling, the Bangkok Civil Court has dismissed Thai activist Jatupat Boonpattararaksa’s lawsuit against NSO Group Technologies, sparking outcry from rights advocates. Jatupat had accused NSO Group of failing to prevent his alleged targeting with Pegasus spyware, a tool widely criticised for its role in surveillance abuses worldwide. Amnesty International’s Thailand Researcher, Chanatip Tatiyakaroonwong, condemned the court’s decision.…
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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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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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Pichai spices up the US: 50 influencers back authentic Thai food
Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan has enlisted the help of 50 powerful US influencers to promote a wave of authentic Thai restaurants across the US. The star-studded event took place in Hollywood, California, where Pichai awarded prestigious Thai Select certificates to seven US-based Thai restaurants. The 6pm ceremony, yesterday, November 19, which was broadcast live on social media by influencers with…
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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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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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Justice minister says ‘no special treatment’ for Yingluck
Former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra’s potential return to Thailand sparked a national debate after her brother, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, hinted at a possible homecoming around next year’s Songkran festival. Speaking in an interview with Nikkei Asia, Thaksin stated his sister could be coming home. “I don’t think there’s any issue preventing her from coming home. I believe she…
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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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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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