Thai politics
- Politics News
Pheu Thai candidate Srettha sues over tax evasion allegations from Chuwit
In a recent turn of events surrounding the Pheu Thai Party, Srettha Thavisin, the prime ministerial candidate, commanded his legal counsel to start a legal battle against the well-known whistleblower Chuwit Kamolvisit. This move comes in response to allegations raised by Chuwit that Srettha was complicit in tax evasion incidents related to land acquisitions by the property giant, Sansiri Plc.…
- Thailand News
Cannabis clash to coalition: Bhumjaithai’s olive branch to Pheu Thai Party PM candidate
The fickle nature of Thai politics once again reared its ugly head when the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party extended an olive branch to the Pheu Thai Party prime ministerial candidate who levied against their cannabis legalisation policy during the General Election campaign. Pheu Thai Party leader Chonlanarn Srikaew yesterday invited Anutin Charvirakul and the Bhumjaithai Party to a press…
- Thailand Election News
Thai democracy at risk following Pheu Thai’s exclusion of MFP in coalition
A collective of democratic organisations has appealed to the Pheu Thai Party to reconsider its choice to exclude the Move Forward Party (MFP) from a coalition government, declaring the move as a setback for Thai democracy. Yesterday, a joint statement from 32 unit network cautioned that sidelining of MFP, the party with the most parliamentary seats following the May 14…
- Thailand News
Thaksin Shinawatra’s return to Thailand delayed amid prime ministerial vote postponement
The return of Thaksin Shinawatra, former prime minister of Thailand and reputed de facto head of the Pheu Thai Party, has been delayed. The strategy appears aimed at facilitating his smooth return, once a government led by his party comes into play, disclosed an unnamed source within Pheu Thai yesterday. The initial return plan for Thaksin was for Thursday, August…
- Thailand News
MFP calls out Pheu Thai Party’s lies on lese majeste law revision
The Move Forward (MFP) yesterday accused the Pheu Thai Party of lying. The MFP insist the Pheu Thai Party never requested them to withdraw their plan to revise the lese majeste law. The Pheu Thai Party yesterday announced an official split from the MFP and six other aligned parties, which had earlier agreed to a memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding…
- Thailand News
Move forward, lese divide: Thai election winner MFP sparks coalition clash over lese majeste law revision
Thai General Election winner the Move Forward Party (MFP) is refusing to abandon its ideology, insisting it will revise the lese majeste law, leading to a division among the Pheu Thai Party and the eight coalition parties. As a consequence, the Pheu Thai Party insisted that they cannot work with the MFP and announced they will form a government with…
- Thailand Election News
Pheu Thai party prepares for coalition meeting
In the latest political development, the Pheu Thai Party, one of the primary political entities in Thailand, plans a strategic meeting with its seven coalition partners next week. The primary focus of this meeting is to mull over the future direction of the eight-party coalition. Following this, they intend to update other parties outside of the bloc and opposition members.…
- Politics News
Thai PM fears MFP rallies might trigger political faction conflict
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha is facing growing apprehensions regarding the rallies being held by supporters of the Move Forward Party (MFP) as Thailand’s politics are tumultuous as always. According to information relayed by Prime Minister’s Office Minister Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana, the Prime Minister’s concern stems from fears that these rallies could rekindle conflict among varied political factions in the country. On…
- Politics News
House speaker warns Thai MPs against ‘cobra’ behaviour in Parliament
The President of the Parliament, Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, who also carries the title of House Speaker, has issued a stark warning to Thai MPs against breaching the peoples’ trust by becoming “cobras,” within the parliamentary chambers. Speaking to attendees of a seminar addressing the roles and obligations of MPs, Wan declared that true power belongs to citizens, who exercise…
- Thailand News
University students’ protest ignites over senators’ role
Activists comprising mainly students, as well as supporters of the Move Forward Party (MFP), held protests at the Kasetsart University, situated in the Bang Khen district of Bangkok, yesterday evening. The protests sparked from the increasing tension and anger against the seemingly prominent role individuals appointed as senators hold in the prolonged political disturbance of the country. This rally was…
- Business News
Thai hotel chains unfazed by political uncertainty, anticipate revenue growth
Despite the ongoing political uncertainty, Thailand’s major hotel chains remain optimistic, as long as the situation stays peaceful and avoids any violent unrest. Centara Hotels and Resorts (CHR) and Minor International Plc voiced their confidence in their ability to weather any potential political storms, providing the environment remains stable. Gun Srisompong, the chief financial officer of CHR, stated that any…
- Thailand News
Thai Democrat party denies rumors of joining Pheu Thai party
The Democrat Party of Thailand vehemently dismissed circulating rumours that more than half of its members of parliament were in the process of joining a coalition led by Pheu Thai. The party remains undecided regarding its stance on voting for Pheu Thai’s prime ministerial nominee, Srettha Thavisin. Party spokesman, Ramet Rattanachaweng, quashed speculations about a mass defection yesterday. Gossip had…
- Thailand News
Thai political parties resist joining Pheu Thai-led coalition
The political landscape in Thailand recently witnessed a dramatic event as Bhumjaithai, United Thai Nation, the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), and Chartthaipattana took a united stance against joining a Pheu Thai-led coalition. Their refusal hinged on one critical determinant – the participation of the Move Forward Party (MFP) in the coalition. Bhumjaithai’s leading figure, Anutin Charnvirakul, revealed the party’s solid…
- Thailand News
Bank of Ayudhya predicts pivotal role of politics in Thailand’s economy
In light of the current political climate, a division of the renowned Bank of Ayudhya suggests that the upcoming political decisions could significantly steer Thailand’s economy this year. This report highlights the pivotal role of swift administrative formation in stabilising the economy and buoying investor confidence. However, the prospect of an emerging minority government raises considerable concerns over its potential…
- Thailand News
Sattahip naval base officer investigated over alleged ammunition theft
Investigations by the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) are ongoing, following suspicions that an officer at Sattahip naval base might be guilty of stealing a significant number of cartridges. The base, located in Chon Buri in Thailand, is at the heart of a major theft case, according to naval spokesman Admiral Pokkrong Monthatphalin. This was a response to allegations on the…
- Politics News
EC defends actions amid criticism over MFP Pita Limjaroenrat’s eligibility debacle
Engulfed in the turmoil stirred by criticism over the eligibility of Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat, the Election Commission (EC) staunchly defends its actions. Critics, including Pita, have insinuated that he was not given the rightful opportunity to counter the allegations before the case saw its day in court. The EC, in a strong-worded statement, clarified that the…
- Thailand News
Pheu Thai may replace MFP in Thai political shakeup
A shift in the political dynamic of Thailand might be on the horizon, according to predictions by a distinguished political science academic. He believes the Pheu Thai Party could rise as the new coalition’s head if Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of the Move Forward Party (MFP), fails to secure victory in the Parliamentary selection for Thailand’s Prime Minister. Burapha University’s…
- Thailand News
MFP challenges military’s role in selection of Thai PM
The Thai political landscape is witnessing a potential upheaval with the Move Forward Party (MFP) taking legislative strides. The party fervently presented a proposal to Parliament yesterday challenging the military-appointed senators‘ right to participate in the selection of the prime minister. This bid comes as a reaction to the MFP leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, falling short of amassing sufficient support for…
- Business News
Thai businesses call for swift government formation
A speedy establishment of a new administration is of paramount importance, according to the business community amid ongoing political uncertainty. Chookiat Ophaswongse, an honorary president of the Thai Rice Exporters Association voiced concerns over the nebulous political situation, indicating the future of Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat as the next prime minister is uncertain, making the country vulnerable to…
- Politics News
Power play unleashed: New Thai prime minister set to take centre stage in thrilling joint sessions showdown
The Deputy House Speaker-elect announced today the highly anticipated installation of the new prime minister of Thailand is likely to be installed within the first three joint sessions of the House of Representatives and the Senate, scheduled over the next two weeks. Deputy House Speaker-elect Pichet Chuamuangphan said that the three sessions are planned for July 13, 19 and 20,…
- Thailand News
Thaipocrisy: United States deny meddling in Thailand political affairs
Unsurprisingly, and not for the first time, the United States has been accused of meddling in another country’s political affairs, surprisingly, this time it’s Thailand’s turn. The US has a long history of interfering in foreign affairs, as Cuba, China, Russia, Iran, Vietnam, and most South American nations can testify. It appears to be endemic in US politics. US Ambassador…
- Politics News
EC officially certifies 500 MPs and plans to investigate corruption later
The Election Commission (EC) officially certified 500 Members of Parliament (MPs) today. The commission will investigate the corruption complaints against some MPs later, and the MPs who are found guilty will be dismissed from their position. At 3pm today, June 19, the Secretary-General of the EC, Sawaeng Boonmee, announced during the press conference that the EC had officially approved the…
- Thailand News
Thai nurse harassed by patient: ex-politician behind the threat
A Thai nurse faced verbal threats and ridicule from a patient, sharing her concerns about the lack of support from her superiors on social media. However, a Nursing Council member recommended reporting the incident to authorities and reassessing her work environment. In a viral post, the nurse shared her frustration about receiving verbal abuse from a male patient. She expressed…
- Thailand News
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,…
- Politics News
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…
- Thailand News
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…
- Economy News
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…
- Politics News
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.…
- Business News
Thapanee Kiatphaibool approved as new TAT governor
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) announced the appointment of Thapanee Kiatphaibool as its new governor, effective from September 1. The 48 year old, who currently serves as the deputy governor for domestic marketing, was chosen by the TAT board yesterday, following a recruitment process that began on February 20. Out of the two finalists, the nomination subcommittee, chaired by…
- Politics News
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…
- Business News
Thai foreign investment outlook positive amid political shift
The Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) and prominent business leaders expressed optimism about foreign investment in the country this year, despite delays due to the formation of a new government. IEAT Governor Veeris Ammarapala stated that foreign investors are expected to understand the evolving political landscape in Thailand, including the transition towards a Move Forward Party-led coalition government. At a…
- Politics News
Thai pro-democracy coalition faces obstacles amid conservative backlash
Pro-democracy parties in Thailand are facing resistance in their efforts to form a government following their historic win in the recent general election. The Move Forward Party (MFP), led by prime ministerial candidate Pita Limjaroenrat, has expanded its coalition to eight parties with 313 members. However, to form a government without relying on the military-appointed Senate, the bloc needs 376…
- Thailand News
Ex-teacher charged over assault in Thai Constitution Association case
Don Mueang District Court ordered an investigation into a retired teacher‘s behaviour after he allegedly assaulted and defamed the secretary of the Thai Constitution Protection Organisation. A judgment is scheduled for 11 July The case involving Thotsaphol Thannonsophonkhun, a 67 year old retired teacher, is set to take a significant step forward. He has been accused by the Tung Song…
- Business News
Tourism boom shields Thailand’s economy amid political uncertainty
As political uncertainty continues to loom over Thailand, the country’s economy is receiving a much-needed boost from the significant increase in foreign tourists. In the first quarter of 2023, Thailand welcomed 6.5 million visitors, a stark contrast to the 498,000 recorded in the same period a year earlier. This surge in tourism is expected to help bolster the nation’s economy,…
- Thailand News
Groups urge Senate to back Thai majority’s choice for PM, Pita Limjaroenrat
Two prominent civil society groups urged the Senate to honour the majority’s decision in favour of Pita Limjaroenrat, the Move Forward Party’s (MFP) candidate for prime minister. The Rural Doctors Society (RDS) and the Law CU Student Committee, Faculty of Law, Chulalongkorn University (CU), expressed their support for the MFP to lead a coalition government with Pita at the helm.…
- Politics News
Prayut’s political career uncertain as United Thai Nation suffers election losses
Bangkok’s Deputy leader of the United Thai Nation, Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana, expressed doubt yesterday over whether Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha will continue his political career after their party’s losses in the General Election. Wangboonkongchana mentioned that 69 year old Prayut has not discussed his future plans, but he may have to step down from politics. The preliminary results from Thailand’s Election…
- Business News
Business sector urges swift government formation for economic stability
The business community in Thailand is urging the formation of a new government and the agreement of policies by coalition parties, as this will significantly impact the nation’s confidence. Sanan Angubolkul, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the importance of a stable government that can govern without interruption. He also noted the high level of public engagement in…
