Illegal and Overpriced Herbal Products Lead to Multiple Shop Arrests in Pattaya

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8 August 2024, 10:03

Thai authorities inspect shops selling unauthorized herbal products at inflated prices in Pattaya on August 7, 2024.

PATTAYA — The Consumer Protection Team of the Chonburi Provincial Public Health Office, in collaboration with Pattaya Tourist Police, jointly inspected and arrested shops selling unauthorized herbal products at inflated prices.

Previously, the Bang Lamung District Public Health Office received complaints from the Indian Association about shops selling overpriced herbal products, using foreigners to persuade customers to buy in the Pattaya area.

Subsequently, public health officials and Pattaya Tourist Police planned surveillance at various reported locations until they found actual wrongdoing, then signaled to move in for inspection.

herbal pattaya3 — Thai authorities inspect shops selling unauthorized herbal products at inflated prices in Pattaya on August 7, 2024.

herbal pattaya1 — Thai authorities inspect shops selling unauthorized herbal products at inflated prices in Pattaya on August 7, 2024.

On August 7, they arrested a total of three herbal product shops: Turk and Thai Natural Herbal Shop, Arab Natural Herbal Shop, and Durrani Natural Herbal.

These shops sold products such as soaps, shampoos, hair oils, cosmetics, herbal medicines for indigestion, lotions, and skin care oils. The products had exaggerated claims about their properties and included herbal products not registered under the Herbal Product Act. Officials seized these as evidence.

herbal pattaya4 — Thai authorities arrest shop owners for selling unauthorized herbal products at inflated prices in Pattaya on August 7, 2024.

Additionally, they detained four individuals who were behaving suspiciously by persuading foreigners to buy products, and one foreign national working without a work permit.

The Tourist Police took all offenders and evidence to Pattaya City Police Station. The shops face charges of producing, selling, or importing modern drugs without permission under the Drug Act, selling herbal products without permission under the Herbal Product Act, and selling unregistered herbal products under Section 58(4) of the Herbal Product Act.

The foreign sales staff were charged with working without a work permit or working beyond their permitted rights. The other four detainees were charged with causing a nuisance.

Suntory Partners With Thammasat University to Enhance Higher Commerce Education

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MC Marketing

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8 August 2024, 09:40

Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) announces an MOU with Thammasat University’s Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy to enhance student capabilities and readiness for the professional world.

Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd., a market leader of health supplement products under BRAND’S trademark in Thailand and Asia, has formalized a partnership with the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy, Thammasat University by signing a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This collaboration aims to “enhance the higher education curriculum in Commerce and Accountancy”, focusing on practical learning, internships, and academic projects that tackle real-world business challenges. The signing ceremony occurred at Meeting Room 500, on the 5th Floor of the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy, Thammasat University, Tha Prachan, on 1 August 2024.

Natthanicha Worawannaseth, Senior Vice President of Corporate Functions at Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) and Indochina Co., Ltd., highlighted that with the company’s value of “Giving Back to Society” and its sustainability priority of improving the Thai population’s health and well-being, it gives high importance on educational development as a foundation for the new generation’s success in the professional world, which is critical to future growth of Thailand’s economy and society. This dedication resulted in the signing of the MOU, aiming to combine the academic excellence of Thammasat University’s Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy with the business acumen and professionalism of Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand), a market leader in Asia’s health supplements. The collaboration includes a variety of activities aimed at providing students with practical skills and insights that are relevant to the current demands of the business world. Furthermore, it intends to establish a collaborative network between the educational and private sectors to improve education quality in a concrete and sustainable manner.

“In today’s world, social and economic trends are rapidly changing. As a result, large leading organizations require human resources with multidimensional skills, including both technical skills directly related to work (Hard Skills) and social skills required for effective working collaboration (Soft Skills), such as communication, work ethics, positive mindset, and teamwork, both are important factors in ensuring good performance and happiness in workplace. The company will accept students in their penultimate or final year of their undergraduate and graduate studies at Thammasat University’s Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy to intern for four months in departments such as Marketing, Finance, Human Resources, Operations, Research and Development, Supply Chain, and Sales. We also hope to provide students with opportunities to visit various company locations and meet with senior executives to exchange perspectives and get inspiration, allowing them to apply their classroom knowledge to the real professional world and prepare for a successful future career path in this field.”

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Somchai Supattarakul, Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy, Thammasat University, shared that “Thammasat University’s Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy, a prominent institution in accounting and business administration, perceives this partnership to be crucial for student preparation by promoting experiential learning from business executives and private sector institutions. The partnership’s objective is to combine theoretical knowledge gained from classrooms with practical skills and experiences. Furthermore, it seeks to motivate students by allowing them to work closely alongside company employees and engage in dialogues with top executives on current business perspectives. It also promotes various types of cooperation, aiming to enhance students’ business acumen and experiential learning, leading to the creation of high-quality human resources in business administration and accounting for the mutual success of the education and private sectors, in line with the vision ‘To cultivate future leaders who sustainably shape ASEAN business.”

In addition, other collaborative activities for academic outcomes are included, such as academic competitions, academic projects on social development to improve people’s quality of life, and additional academic cooperation projects as agreed upon.

The company’s internship program typically selects students in their penultimate or final year of the undergraduate or graduate studies. Internships, lasting four months during an academic term, are provided in a variety of departments, including Marketing, Finance, Human Resources, Operations, Research and Development, Supply Chain, and Sales. They will be reviewed based on their academic performance, relevant coursework, skills and competencies, and an interview process.

According to a survey on the population’s unemployment rate conducted by the National Statistical Office, Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, there were 379,000 unemployed people in June 2024, representing an unemployment rate of 0.9%, a decrease of 103,000 people from 482,000 people in May 2024. Higher education graduates had the highest unemployment rate of 139,000 people, followed by upper secondary and vocational graduates with 72,000 people, and, lastly, lower secondary graduates with 55,000 people.

With the goal of becoming a leading private sector entity at the forefront of the country’s educational progress, the company has formed alliances with various educational institutions to offer comprehensive support that cover a wider group of students. Notable collaborations include signing the MOU with Thammasat University and attending the Annual Business Administration Advisory Board Meeting at Mahidol University International College (MUIC). The latter aims to create a platform for education and private sector leaders to collaborate on strategically shaping the future of business education, ensuring that the curriculum responds to industry needs by incorporating relevant innovation, especially AI technology.

Stay updated on the fascinating activities of Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd., a leading health supplement firm with BRAND’S products sold throughout Thailand and Asia on Facebook and LinkedIn: Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand); and learn more about the company at https://www.suntorybeverageandfood.co.th/.

EDC to Host World-Class Music Festival in Thailand for the First Time

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MC Marketing

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8 August 2024, 09:31

Billions EDC to Host World-Class Music Festival Electric Daisy Carnival for the First Time in Thailand, January 17-19, 2025, in Phuket.

Ravers, get ready! Billions EDC, the organizing team ready to make history, is bringing together the new generation to create this project. They are set to invest over 1 billion THB to deliver an unforgettable experience in Thailand for the first time, turning Phuket into Thailand’s very own Ibiza with the Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC), the largest EDM festival in the United States. Enjoy the thrills from four massive stages featuring world-class lights and sounds from January 17-19, 2025, in Phuket.

Mr. Panitan Samee, President of Billions EDC Co., Ltd. (Billions EDC), revealed that Billions EDC is a company that brings together young people to create exciting projects. Billions EDC previously made waves with the Won Soju Night Out concert, featuring J Park & Jessi, famous artists from South Korea, in the heart of Thailand in April 2023, leaving a lasting impression on fans.

Most recently, Billions EDC has secured the exclusive rights in Thailand to host the Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC), the largest EDM festival in the United States. Billions EDC officially signed a contract with Insomniac, the renowned festival organizer from the United States, on July 20, 2023.

To create a new exhilarating experience for Thailand, Billions EDC, along with its partners, is organizing EDC Thailand 2025. This festival aims to use music and art to inspire people and drive Thailand’s economy. EDC Thailand 2025 will be unlike any other event previously held in Thailand. It is not just a music show but a grand celebration that will take attendees into another world of music. Besides music, attendees will experience interactive art spread throughout the event, making it a unique and memorable experience.

Mr. Panitan Samee further mentioned that EDC Thailand 2025 will be held from January 17-19, 2025, in Phuket, a major tourist destination in Thailand and worldwide. Renowned DJs and artists will deliver an unparalleled entertainment experience that rivals any other country.

“The core and highlight of EDC Thailand 2025 is that every area within the event will be a highlight. The world-class artist lineup will perform on four massive stages with top-notch lighting and sound, complemented by various elements such as decorations and activities that seamlessly blend contemporary Thai art and culture.”

The company has allocated a budget of approximately 700 million to 1 billion THB for EDC Thailand 2025 to bring the grand and thrilling experience of EDC to all attendees. Official ticket sales start on August 7, 2024, with prices starting at 4,800 THB, including special packages.

Mr. Panitan Samee concluded, “Our team is dedicated to providing the best experience for attendees by managing various service points within the event and ensuring sufficient facilities to accommodate the large number of participants. We hope this music festival will be the first step in transforming Phuket into Thailand’s Ibiza and positioning Thailand as a key destination for world-class music festivals in Asia.”

Stay updated on the first Electric Daisy Carnival in Thailand at:

– Facebook: https://fb.me/ElectricDaisyCarnivalThailand

– Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edc_thailand

– X (Twitter): https://x.com/edc_thailand

– Website: https://thailand.electricdaisycarnival.com

Enrich Launches ‘The Article North Ratchaphruek’ in Luxury Home Market

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MC Marketing

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8 August 2024, 09:26

‘Enrich’ Ventures into New Luxury Home Market with the Launch of ‘The Article North Ratchaphruek,’ Expanding into a New Luxury Hub in the Prime Ratchaphruek Location.

The Enrich Group has launched ‘The Article North Ratchaphruek,’ a luxury residential development located on the west side of Bangkok, an area experiencing high demand. Situated in Ratchaphruek, an emerging luxury hub, the project showcases a distinctive design inspired by modern lifestyle needs, with meticulous attention to detail to elevate contemporary living. This project is a joint effort between leading figures in the Thai and Japanese real estate sectors, aiming to redefine standards in the luxury housing market. According to CBRE, high-end and luxury homes in Ratchaphruek experienced a remarkable 385% surge in activity in Q1 2024, compared to the same period in 2023.

“The Article North Ratchaphruek” is a luxury residential development offering expansive single-family homes designed to maximize privacy. The project features modern architecture with a strong emphasis on functional design and optimal living spaces. Enrich selected Ratchaphruek for its burgeoning real estate market, which is increasingly expanding from the city center. The newly developed Ratchaphruek area is surrounded by a wealth of amenities, including community malls, leading department stores, and prestigious international schools.

The project embodies the concept of “Guiding You to Practical Living,” striving to perfectly meet residents’ needs and deliver an exceptional living environment. It also incorporates the “KonMari” home organization method, pioneered by global expert Marie Kondo, marking a first in Thailand’s real estate sector. This approach has received outstanding feedback through consultations with master-level experts.

Mr. Anavach Chatsirikul, CEO of Enrich Group, announced that “The Article North Ratchaphruek,” with a value exceeding 2.4 billion baht, is being developed in collaboration with Anabuki Kosan Group, one of Japan’s top 10 real estate developers. This partnership reflects the observed growth in the Ratchaphruek real estate market, particularly within the luxury segment. Although competition in the area is intense, there is still potential for market entry and competition.

“We recognize that this year’s real estate market presents several challenges, including heightened competition and longer decision-making times for consumers. Nevertheless, our business plan remains focused on driving continuous growth. Our target demographic, which spans from premium to luxury buyers, maintains significant purchasing power. Consequently, we are advancing with projects in high-potential locations, emphasizing unique features, functionalities, and living innovations. Our track record of successful project developments supports this approach,” Mr. Anavach added.

Enrich Group has a strong track record of developing diverse real estate projects and forming strategic partnerships with prominent business allies. This year, Enrich has collaborated with Anabuki Kosan Group to develop “The Article North Ratchaphruek” and has appointed CBRE Thailand, a leading global real estate consultancy, to provide marketing consultation and sales management for the project. This partnership ensures that the project stands out with its unique design, functionality, and choice of materials, distinguishing it from competitors and appealing to luxury buyers.

Ms. Suphicha Nutsuwanpol, Business Office Director at Enrich Group, highlighted that Enrich’s project development philosophy is “Guiding You to Practical Living.” This philosophy emphasizes high-quality living standards and compelling products, with a keen focus on every detail from initial design through to the final move-in process. The project also incorporates the KonMari method by Marie Kondo, marking Enrich as the first in Thailand to apply this renowned concept in real estate, and has received outstanding feedback from master-level consultants aimed at enhancing future residents’ living experiences.

“Given the high level of competition in the real estate market in this area, we are dedicated to developing projects with distinctive designs and prioritizing family living experiences. A significant feature is our Customization system, which allows customers to tailor certain aspects of their homes to fit evolving trends and lifestyles, meeting the diverse needs of our target audience,” Ms. Suphicha added.

The decision to develop the project in Ratchaphruek is driven by the observed trend of real estate market growth moving outwards from the city center, particularly towards western Bangkok. This area has seen increasing development of amenities, including community malls, major department stores, and prestigious international schools. “The Article North Ratchaphruek” is conveniently located just 300 meters from Robinson Lifestyle Ratchaphruek. It is designed to meet the needs of young families who require more living space and flexible work arrangements, offering easy access to transportation and addressing these needs effectively.

Mr. Masaaki Kagawa, Management Director of Anabuki Kosan Group, emphasized that the decision to partner with Enrich Group was based on shared visions and working approaches. He highlighted Enrich’s dedication to quality project development, exceptional design focus, and strategic location choices. Anabuki Kosan Group chose to collaborate with Enrich because of their meticulous attention to detail and commitment to innovative product development.

“We find Enrich’s products to be distinctive and appealing. They have successfully addressed client needs with an emphasis on design, convenience, and strategic planning,” Mr. Kagawa stated.

Ms. Artitaya Kasemlawan, Head of Residential Sales – Project at CBRE Thailand, reported that 31 new housing projects launched in the market in Q1 2024, adding a total of 5,032 units. This reflected a 15.3% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The Western Suburbs area has been growing consistently since 2022, with project launches rising by 145% in 2022 and 18% in 2023. By the end of Q1 2024, this area led suburban locations in new project launches. The high-end and above segment saw a significant surge in project launches, posting a 227% increase in

2023 over 2022, and a staggering 385% increase in Q1 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.

Ms. Artitaya explained that significant infrastructure developments drove the growth of the luxury housing market in Ratchaphruek. New road constructions and expansions, such as the new Ratchaphruek Road and Chaiyaphruek Road, have strengthened links to major transport routes. These improvements have enhanced connectivity between Bangkok, Nonthaburi and Pathum Thani. Large shopping centers like Robinson Lifestyle Ratchaphruek and Central Westgate also support local lifestyle needs. Ratchaphruek’s connection to Chaeng Watthana Road, a business hub housing key government and national companies, further stimulates demand and growth in the residential market.

“Another major appeal of ‘The Article North Ratchaphruek’ is its strategic location in a high-growth area with excellent infrastructure, transportation and amenities. Its proximity to Robinson Lifestyle Ratchaphruek, just 300 meters away, provides convenience and a variety of dining options. The land value in the area has been on a steady upswing, with a 21% increase projected for the 2023-2026 valuation period. This location holds the potential to become the next luxury home hub, akin to areas such as Ekkamai-Ramintra and Krungthep-Kreetha. The project distinguishes itself from typical market offerings with its superior design, high-quality materials, and customization options, presenting high-end homes in a premium Ratchaphruek location,” Ms. Artitaya concluded.

Kuwaiti Tourists Clash in Pattaya: Police Break Up Late-Night Brawl

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Khaosod English

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8 August 2024, 08:08

PATTAYA — It’s young adult Kuwaiti again, following a recent brawl with Thai teenagers. In this latest incident, groups of Kuwaitis got into a fight among themselves in South Pattaya, requiring police intervention to control the situation.

Police officers from Pattaya City Police Station responded to a brawl between groups of Kuwaiti tourists in Soi Yen Sabai, South Pattaya, Nongprue Subdistrict, Banglamung District, Chonburi Province, just before midnight on Wednesday, August 7.

Upon arrival, they found about 20 Kuwaitis on each side, engaged in a heated verbal altercation and attempting to physically attack each other.

When questioned, a restaurant employee recounted that before the incident, two groups of Arab tourists were dining at separate tables. Suddenly, they stood up and tried to fight each other, but the restaurant staff managed to intervene. Initially, they thought the situation was resolved, but soon after, both groups returned with reinforcements, filling the alley. The employee then quickly alerted the police to contain the situation.

kuwit brawl1 — Pattaya City police officers come to intervene a brawl between groups of Kuwaiti tourists in Soi Yen Sabai, South Pattaya on August 7, 2024.

This incident highlights a case of public disturbance involving foreign tourists in Pattaya, a popular tourist destination in Thailand.

Officials noted that over the past two to three years, young Kuwaiti chose Pattaya as their preferred destination during their summer high-school break and would stay from July to August. They often gather to race in South Pattaya, leading to frequent complaints from residents and tourists about reckless driving and loud exhaust noise.

On August 2, Pol. Col. Nawin Theerawit, Superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station, led a team to set up checkpoints to prevent and warn foreign groups who ride motorcycles repeatedly, honk horns, and rev engines loudly, disturbing local residents.

But on August 3, 50 Kuwaiti teenage motorcyclists fighting with a group of Thai teenagers in Soi Yen Sabai.

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Panipak Wongpattanakit Defends Her Olympic Taekwondo Title

By

Associated Press

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8 August 2024, 03:48

PARIS (AP) — Panipak Wongpattanakit retired on a perfect note as she became the first Thai athlete in any sport to become a two-time Olympic champion on Wednesday.

Wongpattanakit defended her Tokyo Games title to secure Thailand’s first gold medal of the Paris Olympics and Park Tae-joon restored South Korea’s pride on the opening day of the taekwondo competition.

Wongpattanakit, who confirmed she will end her career, celebrated the gold by grabbing a Thai flag after jumping into her coach’s arms.

“I have so much pain,” she said on the eve of her 27th birthday. “I had a broken knee. And my ankle, my hip… Now, I have to retire.”

AP24220749045888 — Thailand’s Panipak Wongpattankit celebrates on the podium after winning the gold medal in a women’s 49kg Taekwondo competition during the 2024 Summer Olympics, at the Grand Palais, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Paris, France. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Wongpattanakit, who comfortably won her three opening bouts to reach the final of the 49-kilogram category, trailed in the first round against Guo Qing of China but rallied with two consecutive kicks to the body and head.

Guo fought back to force a decider, but Wongpattanakit prevailed after video reviews showed that she had successfully landed two spectacular head kicks.

Under the new rules introduced in Paris, bouts are decided on a best-of-three format rather than cumulative points.

Taekwondo is South Korea’s national martial art, and the country suffered a humiliation in Tokyo, where it failed to win a single gold medal for the first time since the sport became a medal event in 2000.

AP24220718053011 1 — Thailand’s Panipak Wongpattankit, left, celebrates with her coach after winning a women’s 49kg Taekwondo final match against China’s Guo Qing during the 2024 Summer Olympics, at the Grand Palais, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Paris, France. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

AP24220705323809 — Thailand’s Panipak Wongpattankit competes with China’s Guo Qing in a women’s 49kg Taekwondo final match during the 2024 Summer Olympics, at the Grand Palais, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Paris, France. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Park set the record straight by routing his opponent in a brutal final for the gold medal.

“It was my childhood dream,” Park said.

In the men’s 58 kilos class, Park demolished Gashim Magomedov of Azerbaijan, who soldiered on but retired injured.

After contact with his opponent’s leg in the opening round, Magomedov crashed to the canvas, clutching his left leg in pain. He was attended to by doctors and managed to resume the fight.

Trailing 7-0 with 14 seconds left, he limped and sat again to receive further treatment, losing the round without scoring a point. Magomedov was helped off the canvas but returned for the second round and continued without threatening his opponent, who capped off his masterpiece with a superb turning kick to the head.

Magomedov’s ordeal continued a bit longer as Park landed a final kick to his back that ejected him from the combat arena. It was the coup de grace, and Magomedov called it quits.

“In Tokyo, South Korea did not get a gold medal, it was a bit frustrating and sad. Today I’m honored and proud. The whole team has worked hard to make sure we were prepared here,” Park said.

Mobina Nematzadeh of Iran and Lena Stojkovic of Croatia won bronze medals in the women’s tournament. The men’s bronze medals went to Cyrian Ravet of France and Mohamed Khalil Jendoubi of Tunisia.

Taekwondo tournaments at the Olympics award two bronze medals, with the losing semifinalists facing two contestants who lost to the finalists in the elimination phase.

Aussie Tourist’s A$4,000 Gold Necklace Recovered in Bangkok Theft Case

By

Khaosod English

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8 August 2024, 00:18

BANGKOK — Thai Police officers spent two weeks tracking down and arresting a thief who stole a necklace from an Australian man in downtown Bangkok.

On August 7, officers from the Crime Suppression Division of the Central Investigation Bureau arrested Thosaporn, a transgender woman suspected of stealing a gold necklace from Mr. Brock, an Australian national, in the parking lot of Krongthong Mansion on On Nut Road, Suan Luang District, Bangkok.

The incident occurred on July 21 at 6:14 AM near the pedestrian bridge in front of the Hyatt Regency Hotel on Sukhumvit Road, Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana District, Bangkok. At that time, Mr. Brock was wearing a gold necklace worth approximately 4,000 Australian dollars or about 97,000 Thai baht. He was walking on the sidewalk from Sukhumvit Soi 11 towards the Asok intersection.

S 80691215 — The suspect retrieves the necklace stolen from an Australian tourist from her room and returns it to the police after confessing to the crime on August 7, 2024.

At this point, a transgender woman wearing a black dress, with long hair (tied up), flip-flops, and carrying a handbag approached him, pretending to talk. She used her left hand to embrace him from behind and her right hand to grab his neck and unfasten the gold necklace without him noticing.

When he realized the necklace was missing, he filed a police report at Lumpini Police Station.

The investigation team discovered that Thosaporn was the perpetrator and was hiding in Krongthong Mansion on On Nut Road. They set up surveillance and arrested her as she was leaving the dormitory.

Thosaporn confessed to being the person in the arrest warrant and admitted that this was her first arrest for this crime. She fully confessed to the charges and led the arresting officers to her room to retrieve the gold necklace, which she had not yet sold, to return it to Mr. Brock. The police then took her to Lumphini Police Station to formally charge her.

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A Dark Day for Thailand After Court Dissolved Move Forward Party

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Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer

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7 August 2024, 17:46

In the end, the Constitutional Court today acted out of fear, citing eventual concerns that the monarchy institution will be eventually abolished if the main opposition Move Forward was allowed to continue to exist and charismatic former leader Pita Limjaroenrat allowed to hold political office.

Thus the party was dissolved and Pita along with about ten others, including current party leader Chaithawat Tulathon were banned from from political office for 10 years.

This leads to the question as to whether Thailand can still call itself a democracy when disenfranchising 14 million voters, or the biggest winner in the May 2014 general election, means little or nothing as long as voters want to see the monarchy institution reformed instead of being treated like a semi-divine institution from the Middle Ages in Europe.

The Charter Court says it has no choice but to dissolve the party and ban party leaders from politics for 10 years in order to protect the monarchy. The court cited how party leaders, particularly Pita, identified themselves with the monarchy-reform movement, which included some anti-monarchists.

One wonders how fragile the Thai monarchy institution must be in the eyes of the court if a political party has to be dissolved, leaders removed from politics, for merely pledging to amend the royal defamation law which is deemed by many young Thai voters as anachronistic, disproportionately severe, unjust and cruel.

Also, it seems the court thinks if you can’t win the hearts of young Thais calling for change, then you have to make them fear, or at least make the politicians wanting to represent them be afraid and their movement leaders on the streets be very afraid, flee into exile or in prison for violating the very same law they want to amend.

Today’s ruling will definitely generate more negative sentiment towards not just the Charter Court but the monarchy institution, the very institution the court argues it is trying to protect by punishing the Move Forward Party in a way that undermines any attempt to bring about political change peacefully through the ballot box.

Thai Court Dissolves Progressive Move Forward Party, Which Won Election but Failed To Take Power

By

Associated Press

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7 August 2024, 16:14

Former leader of Move Forward Party, Pita Limjaroenrat, center, arrives at Constitutional Court in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024. Photo: Chatkla Samnaingjam / AP

BANGKOK (AP) — A court in Thailand on Wednesday ordered the dissolution of the progressive Move Forward Party, which finished first in last year’s general election, saying it violated the constitution by proposing an amendment of a law against defaming the country’s royal family.

The Constitutional Court said it voted unanimously to dissolve the party because its campaign to amend the law was considered an attempt to overthrow the nation’s constitutional monarchy.

The Move Forward Party was unable to form a government after topping the polls because members of the Senate, at that time a conservative military-appointed body, declined to endorse its candidate for prime minister.

The Election Commission had filed a petition against the Move Forward Party after the Constitutional Court ruled in January that it must stop advocating changes to the law, known as Article 112, which protects the monarchy from criticism with penalties of up to 15 years in jail per offense.

The ruling also imposed a 10-year ban on political activity on those who held the party’s executive positions while it campaigned for the proposed amendment. Among them are its charismatic former leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, and current chief Chaithawat Tulathon.

It remained unclear what will happen to the rest of its non-executive lawmakers, although Pita said in an interview with The Associated Press that the party will ensure they have a “smooth transition into a new house,” or a new party.

AP24220284454546 — Former leader of Move Forward Party, Pita Limjaroenrat, center, arrives at Constitutional Court in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Chatkla Samnaingjam)

Lawmakers of a dissolved political party can keep their seats in Parliament if they move to a new party within 60 days.

Move Forward and its reform agenda shook up Thai politics by winning the most seats in the 2023 elections even though afteward it was blocked from taking power. The latest legal action is one of many that have drawn widespread criticism and are seen as part of a yearslong attack on the country’s progressive movement by conservative forces trying to keep their grip on power.

The party was denied power after the Senate refused to accept its then-leader Pita’s nomination as prime minister. Senators, who were given power to veto prime ministerial candidates by the constitution adopted in 2017 under a military government, said they opposed Pita because of his intention to reform the royal defamation law. Move Forward was later removed from a coalition formed with the now-governing Pheu Thai party and became head of the opposition.

In its arguments submitted to the court, Move Forward said the Constitutional Court does not have jurisdiction to rule on the case and the petition filed by the Election Commission did not follow due process because Move Forward was not given an opportunity to defend itself before it was submitted to the court. The court said in its ruling that it has the authority to rule on the case, and that its previous ruling in January was enough of an evidence for the Election Commission to file the case without having to hear more evidence from the party.

Human rights organizations have expressed concern about the case. Amy Smith, executive director of the human rights group Fortify Rights, ahead of the ruling called the attempt to disband Move Forward “a direct attack on democratic principles” that “severely undermines Thailand’s commitment to human rights.”

The chairperson of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Sen. Ben Cardin, sent a letter to Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa to express his concern. He said that dissolving a party that “secured a significant victory” in the 2023 elections would “disenfranchise millions of voters who called for progressive change and democratic reform.”

AP24220222562476 — Supporters of Move Forward Party wave the party’s flag at the party’s headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has maintained that the Thai justice system is fair and impartial, and that the government cannot interfere with the judicial process.

Move Forward’s predecessor, the Future Forward party, was dissolved by the Constitutional Court in 2020 on charges of violating election laws on donations to political parties.

Thailand’s courts, especially the Constitutional Court, are considered a bulwark of the country’s royalist establishment, which has used them and nominally independent state agencies such as the Election Commission to issue rulings to cripple or sink political opponents.

The dissolution of Future Forward, whose promises of reforms were particularly attractive for younger people disillusioned after years of military rule, further highlighted the struggle between the progressive movement and conservative forces in Thailand. It was one of the triggers for youth-led pro-democracy protests that sprang up across the country in 2020. The protests openly criticized the monarchy, an institution previously considered untouchable and a linchpin of Thai society.

The protests led to vigorous prosecutions under Article 112, which previously had been relatively rarely employed. Critics say the law is often wielded as a tool to quash political dissent.

Move Forward, formed as a new home for lawmakers from the dissolved Future Forward party, campaigned for an amendment of the article and other democratic reforms in the 2023 elections. It won first place in the balloting, a surprise victory indicating that many Thai voters were ready for change.

Move Forward has insisted that it wants to keep the monarchy above politics and not be exploited as a political tool.

Flash Flood Kills Guide in Closed Thai Cave; Tour Firm Faces Charges

By

Khaosod English

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7 August 2024, 14:57

Nam Thalu Cave2 — A sign from the Department of National Parks posted at the entrance of Nam Thalu Cave in the Ratchaprapha Reservoir area, Surat Thani, reads: "No entry from June - November 2024.

SURAT THANI — A tragic incident occurred during an adventure tour in the rainy season when two tour guides were leading a group of 22 foreign tourists through Nam Thalu Cave in the Ratchaprapha Reservoir area in Khlong Sok sub-district, Phanom District, Surat Thani Province, resulting in one guide’s death.

The Department of National Parks will take legal action against the tour company that brought this group of tourists into the cave, as they violated the announcement prohibiting cave entry during the rainy season.

Heavy rains in recent days in the Khao Sok mountain range caused water to flow into the Nam Thalu cave in the Ratchaprapha reservoir. On August 6, while all the tourists managed to escape the floods, one guide was swept away. The surviving guide informed the Khao Sok National Park officers at 7:00 p.m.

When Khao Sok National Park officials learned about the incident, they had the tourists and the other guide stay overnight at Graisorn Raft House in Khao Sok National Park Ranger Station 7. Two tourists were taken to Ban Takhun Hospital with minor injuries.

Nam Thalu Cave1 — Khao Sok National Park officials and rescuers transport two foreign tourists to hospital in Surat Thani on Tuesday night, August 6, 2024.

At 1:00 am on August 7, the search team found the body of the guide, Mr. Pongyot Kerddee, 37, from Warin Chamrap District, Ubon Ratchathani Province. The rescue team transported his body to Ban Takhun Hospital.

Nam Thalu Cave is about 3 kilometers from Khao Sok National Park Ranger Station 4 (Khlong Pae) and is located on the edge of the Ratchaprapha Reservoir. It is also located on the territory of Khlong Sok Subdistrict, Phanom District, about 23 kilometers from the tourist landing site of Chiew Lan Subdistrict Township. Access to the cave requires a two-hour boat ride from the jetty, followed by a 2-kilometer walk. There is no cell phone signal in the area.

The Nam Thalu cave has a 30 meter wide entrance, through which a stream flows over a length of 600 meters. Inside the cave are stalactites, stalagmites and unusual rock formations shaped by water erosion, which are very popular with adventurous foreign tourists.

Khao Sok National Park has announced that the cave is closed to tourists from June 1 to November 30 due to the rainy season, when there is a risk of flash floods in the cave. A similar tragic incident occurred on October 13, 2007, when a flash flood in the cave led to the death of eight tourists, both foreigners and Thais.

Due to this violation, Mr. Atthaphon Charoenchansa, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, has ordered the Chief of Khao Sok National Park to take strict legal action against the tour company.

Nam Thalu Cave4 — Khao Sok National Park officials transport 20 tourists and the other guide stay overnight at Graisorn Raft House in Khao Sok National Park Ranger Station 7, on August 6, 2024.

“In light of this incident, we would like to warn all tour companies and tourists to check the annual closure schedules of national parks nationwide, as well as emergency closures. Especially during this rainy season, many areas are experiencing heavy and continuous rainfall, causing flash floods in tourist attractions under the responsibility of the Department of National Parks. If there are violations like this example, the Department will take strict legal action against the offending tour companies,” he said.

He further added, “Please check for any closures of tourist attractions due to annual maintenance or emergencies, particularly during this rainy season when many areas are experiencing heavy and continuous rainfall. This can cause flash floods in tourist spots under our department’s responsibility. If there are violations like in this case, we will take strict legal action against the tour companies that defy these rules.”

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