Thailand Video News | Thailand’s Move Forward Party Dissolved by Constitutional Court, PM Srettha Denies Bribery Allegations Amid MFP Turmoil
In today’s Thailand video news presented by Alex and Jay, delve into the mixed big news from across Thailand and Southeast Asia countries. The stories include the Constitutional Court dissolving the Move Forward Party, banning its leaders and drawing international criticism. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin denies bribery allegations related to the party’s MPs. Former Deputy Police Commissioner Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn faces asset seizures over gambling links. Parliament rejects a proposal to legalise pornography and sex toys due to cultural concerns. Hyundai invests $28 million in a Thai EV facility, boosting the local market. The nation mourns the passing of PM Srettha’s mother, honoured at a royal cremation. Meta apologises for mistakenly removing posts by Malaysia’s Prime Minister. Stay tuned for more details.
Thailand’s Move Forward Party Dissolved by Constitutional Court
The Constitutional Court of Thailand has dissolved the Move Forward Party (MFP) for its efforts to reform the lese majeste law (Section 112). The court also banned 11 of its executives, including leaders Pita Limjaroenrat and Chaithawat Tulathon, from politics for 10 years. The MFP’s 142 MPs must join new parties within 60 days to retain their status. Amnesty International condemned the decision, calling it a violation of free expression and association. Following the dissolution, MFP vowed to continue its mission, sharing a video message of resilience.
PM Srettha Denies Bribery Allegations Amid MFP Turmoil
Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin denies knowing about alleged attempts to bribe Move Forward Party (MFP) MPs to switch allegiances. Rumours suggest rival factions offered 30 million baht to some MFP MPs. These claims emerged as the Constitutional Court ruled to dissolve MFP for violating the Political Party Act. MFP MP Jirat Thongsuwan alleged a high-ranking minister made these bribe offers. PM Srettha stated he is unaware of such actions and urged those with evidence to come forward for legal action.
4.8 Million Baht Seized from Former Thai Deputy Commissioner
The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) seized 4.8 million baht in life insurance cash surrender value from former Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police, Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, and his wife, due to suspicions of using gambling proceeds to pay for the policy. Big Joke and four officers were removed from their positions over alleged online gambling links. Despite contesting the removal, the Police Ethics Protection Committee deemed it lawful. AMLO disclosed that assets totalling 109 million baht were seized from the gambling ring. Big Joke can still appeal to the Administrative Court within 90 days.
Thai Parliament Rejects Legalisation of Pornography and Sex Toys
Thailand’s Parliament rejected the Move Forward Party’s (MFP) proposal to legalise professions related to pornography and sex toys due to concerns over explicit advertising and potential conflicts with Muslim religious principles. MFP MP Taopiphop Limjittakorn aimed to revise Section 287 of the Criminal Law to allow the legal production and distribution of such materials. MFP argued the ban violates rights and freedoms, while coalition MPs opposed it, citing potential negative societal impacts. The proposal was rejected by 284 votes to 145. MFP MP Aitarnik Chitwiset expressed determination to continue advocating for the proposal.
Hyundai to Invest $28 Million in Thai EV and Battery Facility
Hyundai Motor Company will invest 1 billion baht ($28 million) to establish an electric vehicle (EV) and battery assembly facility in Thailand, starting production in 2026. The investment aims to leverage Thailand’s strong supply chain, sourcing at least one-third of raw materials locally. The country’s EV market, dominated by Chinese manufacturers like BYD and Great Wall Motors, is expanding rapidly, with Thailand accounting for 55% of Southeast Asia’s EV sales in Q1 2024. This move supports Hyundai’s strategy to tap into the booming EV sector and support the local industry.
Royal Cremation Ceremony for Thai PM Srettha’s Mother
Chodchoi Thavisin, mother of Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, was honored at a royal cremation ceremony on August 6. His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn appointed General Surayud Chulanont to represent him. Attendees included General Prayut Chan-o-cha, former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, and other notable figures. Born in 1928, Chodchoi had a distinguished career in interior design and served at the Turkish Embassy before dedicating herself to her family. She raised Srettha after his father’s early death, guiding him to success. Chodchoi passed away on July 21 at age 95.
Meta Apologises for Removing Malaysian PM Anwar’s Posts in Error
Meta Platforms apologised for mistakenly removing posts by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, in which he expressed condolences to a Hamas official about the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh. Meta attributed the removal to an “operational error” and restored the content with a “newsworthy” label. This incident marked the second time Meta had mistakenly taken down Anwar’s posts regarding Haniyeh. The Malaysian government criticised the takedown as unjust and discriminatory, emphasising Malaysia’s strong support for the Palestinian cause and warning of potential actions against social media companies blocking pro-Palestinian content.
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