Palestinians stand in rubble after an Israeli airstrike in Deir al Balah, Gaza Strip, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)
CAIRO (AP) — An Israeli airstrike hit a school-turned-shelter in Gaza City early Saturday, killing more than 60 people, Palestinian health authorities said, in one of the deadliest strikes in the 10-month-old war between Israel and Hamas.
The Israeli military acknowledged the strike, claiming without evidence that it hit a Hamas command center within the school.
The strike on the Tabeen school in central Gaza City also wounded 47 people, the Health Ministry’s Ambulance and Emergency service said. The facility, like almost all of Gaza Strip’s schools, has been used as a shelter for people who have been forced to flee their homes by the war.
According to the United Nations, 477 out of 564 schools in Gaza have been directly hit or damaged in the war as of July 6. In June, an Israeli strike on a school sheltering displaced Palestinians in central Gaza killed at least 33 people, including 12 women and children, according to local health officials.
A Palestinian youth flees the Khan Younis area of the Gaza Strip, following Israeli military evacuation orders, saying its forces will soon operate there, Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)
Israel’s campaign in Gaza has killed more than 39,600 Palestinians and wounded more than 91,700 others, according to the enclave’s Health Ministry. The war was triggered by Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack, in which militants from Gaza stormed into southern Israel, killing around 1,200 people and abducting 250 others.
More than 1.9 million of Gaza’s pre-war population of 2.3 million have been driven from their homes, fleeing repeatedly across the territory to escape offensives. Most are now crowded into ramshackle tent camps in an area of about 50 square kilometers (19 square miles) on the Gaza coast.
BANGKOK – Hino Motors Sales (Thailand) Ltd., in collaboration with the Department of Land Transport, holds the opening ceremony for “the Professional Driver Producing Project for the 2nd year”. This is to train drivers to be qualified and able to drive safely on the road.
Ms. Yumiko Kawamura, President of Hino Motors Sales (Thailand) Ltd. launched the Professional Driver Producing Project. On occasion, the Project was honored to have many relevant agencies from both government sector and private sector join the event
There were relevant parties, led by Mr. Chirute Visalachitra, Director General of the Department of Land Transport, Dr. Thongyoo Khongkhan, Ph.D., President of Land Transport Federation of Thailand, Mr. Apichart Prairungruang, Honorary Advisor of Land Transport Federation of Thailand, and Transport Presidents from all over the country. The Project event was held at the large truck driving school, Department of Land Transport, Lamlukka District, Pathum Thani province.
This Project, by Hino and the Department of Land Transport, has been held continually for the 2nd year. Ms. Yumiko Kawamura, President of Hino Motors Sales (Thailand) Ltd. mentioned that the Hino Company was pleased to cooperate with the Department of Land Transport to develop and improve the transportation and logistics of Thailand for advancement and betterment.
The goals and successes can be achieved through cooperation from the government and private sectors; we aim to create a society of sustainability in Thailand. This goal also matches the Company’s policy.
This year, Hino is striving to develop and improve the Company’s aspects, including personnel, and excellent service and experience, under the same standards. We are ready to take care of our customers, regarding one-stop service for commercial vehicles.
We are ready to find the best solutions for customers, in compliance with the Hino Customer Smile Policy which will put a smile on the customer’s face and create more smiles in the society. It’s a pleasure for Hino to support various projects, such as the project to produce qualified drivers.
Mr. Chirute Visalachitra, Director General of the Department of Land Transport, the Ministry of Transport, said that the aforementioned objectives of the Hino’s Project were considered a part of the commitment and determination made by the Department of Land Transport to produce highly skilled and qualified drivers for entering the transport sector.
The Department of Land Transport perceived that apart from developing and improving driver’s skills, the project also produced qualified laborers to enter the labor market. Moreover, the important policy on the development of transport on the road for efficacy was mentioned.
Safety and keys to drive the policy forward had to be considered in terms of accident reduction, and qualified drivers. “Qualified drivers” must gain sufficient skills, competencies, and experiences, to drive safely with environmentally friendliness.
There were 35 attendants trained in the project which took 5 days of training. The training started from August 5-9, 2024, with free of charge. After the training was completed, attendants could do their criminal record checks, and apply for the driver’s license, type 2. Moreover, the Hino Smart Driver Training, driver’ skills were developed further.
Trained drivers would be able to become “the professional truck drivers”, or Hino Professional Drivers who would meet the needs for employing drivers in the private sector, the Land Transport Federation of Thailand, and transport associations throughout Thailand that needed drivers to support their current businesses.
Hino is ready to respond to customer needs and can provide more benefits to customers.
Not only we manufacture trucks with high quality to travel on the road but also place importance on every aspect for creating smiles and happiness for people in society. For more information on Hino’s news and activities, follow us on http://www.hinothailand.com, Facebook: Hino Thailand Fan Club, Line: @hinoth, YouTube: Hino Thailand Official, and TikTok: @hinoth.
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting millions of women worldwide. Early detection is crucial in managing and effectively treating this disease. Understanding the symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes. At Vejthani Hospital, our dedicated team is committed to providing comprehensive care and guidance on how to identify and manage breast cancer symptoms.
Recognizing Breast Cancer Symptoms
Breast cancer symptoms can vary widely – from observable changes in breast size or shape to more subtle signs like skin texture. Here are some key symptoms to watch for:
Lump in the Breast: The most recognized symptom is a new lump or mass in the breast that feels different from the surrounding tissue. It may be painless, hard, and have irregular edges, but tender, soft, and rounded lumps can also be cancerous.
Change in Breast Size or Shape: Any alteration in the size or contour of the breast should prompt further examination.
Skin Changes: Look for dimpling, puckering, or bulging of the skin, a texture similar to an orange peel, or flaky red patches near the nipple.
Nipple Changes: This can include a nipple that suddenly starts to invert or turn inward, scaling, redness, or a discharge other than breast milk.
Pain in the Breast or Nipple: While breast pain is more commonly associated with non-cancerous conditions, unexplained pain in the area should not be ignored.
Diagnosing Breast Cancer
If you notice any of these symptoms, consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. At Vejthani Hospital, our diagnostic process includes a physical examination, mammography, ultrasound, and possibly an MRI. If these tests indicate a possibility of cancer, a biopsy will be conducted to confirm the diagnosis.
Managing Breast Cancer Symptoms
While the presence of symptoms alone does not confirm breast cancer, managing them is crucial for comfort and overall health. Our approach includes medication to manage pain or discomfort associated with the symptoms. You may also need to make lifestyle changes, from eating a balanced diet to maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle to support overall health and can help manage symptoms. Getting counseling and joining support groups can be valuable sources of emotional and psychological support.
Why Choose Vejthani Hospital?
Vejthani Hospital’s Cancer Center is equipped with advanced technology and staffed by experienced professionals dedicated to providing patient-centered care. Early detection saves lives, and our team is here to help you with state-of-the-art diagnostic services and a caring approach. Contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.
The return of the “ICONCRAFT Thai Textile Hero 2024” event, in promoting and preserving Thai textiles, is set to be held exclusively this time. ICONCRAFT, the creative hub for Thai craftsmanship, collaborates with SIRIVANNAVARI to launch a chic Thai textile bag collection, “S’CRAFT: Craftsmanship 2024,” in honor of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother’s 92nd birthday and to celebrate Thai Textile Day this year.
Every year, ICONCRAFT hosts “ICONCRAFT Thai Textile Hero” in August to honor Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, for her preservation and promotion of Thai textiles, a precious cultural heritage.
This year, the event “ICONCRAFT Thai Textile Hero 2024” is special, with ICONCRAFT collaborating with SIRIVANNAVARI to unveil an exclusive Thai silk bag collection, “S’CRAFT: Craftsmanship 2024,” limited edition, featuring a fashion show by over 40 celebrities on August 8, 2024, at ICONLUXE Hall, 1st Floor, ICONSIAM.
The “S’CRAFT 2024” Thai silk bag collection is created with the vision of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, the creative director of the brand SIRIVANNAVARI, continuing the royal legacy of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, who founded the ‘Support Foundation Of Her Majesty Queen Siriki’ to revive and preserve traditional Thai crafts. Inspired by this, the design of the Thai silk bags honors Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, on her 92nd birthday, reflecting the noble qualities and talents of the royal lady, likened to a precious flower spreading beauty and tranquility across the land for decades.
The “S’CRAFT: Craftsmanship 2024” collection is limited to only 75 pieces, each crafted from Thai silk and masterfully designed in contemporary styles. The silk is meticulously woven by artisans from the Ko Kerd Arts and Crafts Center in Ayutthaya Province and the Arts and Crafts Center of the Chitralada Palace, featuring vibrant yellow and blue hues reminiscent of a blooming spring garden.
Highlighted with intricate embroidery and 3D layering, these bags are the result of hundreds of delicate stitches by master embroiderers at SIRIVANNAVARI Atelier & Academy, transforming hand-drawn designs of favorite flowers like the Queen Sirikit Rose and irises into exquisite 3D floral patterns.
Techniques include hand-smocking that takes hours and precise leather weaving, creating proud masterpieces that blend the beauty of Thai textiles with global fashion seamlessly.
The “S’CRAFT: Craftsmanship 2024” collection includes 7 designs suitable for various occasions and special events, each crafted uniquely:
S Signature Pouch: The iconic model with a drawstring closure, featuring elegant crystal embroidery and intricate smocking.
Busaba Clutch: A luxurious small clutch with delicate embroidery and smocking, designed as a wrist accessory to complement evening gowns.
Mala Shoulder Bag: A rectangular shoulder bag with intricate floral embroidery, suitable for day and night looks.
Busabong Bucket Bag: A pleated bucket bag with a modern vintage style, made from smocked silk and fine calf leather, featuring a drawstring closure with a peacock logo.
Bupa Wristlet: A chic wristlet perfect for cocktail parties or evening events, with flower-like smocked fabric sculpting.
Baga Tote Bag: A classic tote with floral smocking, available in medium and large sizes, suitable for daytime use.
And the most special piece this year is the “SIRIPruksa” clutch bag, which is a silk bag in the shape of an elegant peacock. The peacock is decorated with gold, real silver, and precious crystals. The semicircular clutch is luxuriously sewn with smocking. It is a limited edition, with only one bag in each color: silver and gold. In addition, the “S’CRAFT 2024” collection also has accessories to decorate the bag to add beauty and chicness, such as silk keychains, as well as neckties and bow ties for men to perfectly complement the look.
Special Offers! For ONESIAM members and international customers, spend 5,000 THB per receipt at ICONCRAFT, 4th and 5th floor, ICONSIAM to receive a 300 THB ICONCRAFT Gift Voucher. Spend 50,000 THB per receipt to receive a 4,000 THB ICONCRAFT Gift Voucher. Spend 100,000 THB or more per day to receive an additional 10,000 ONESIAM COINS. For more information, call 1338 or visit Facebook: ICONCRAFT
BANGKOK — The new journey of the Thai progressive party in the new name, People’s Party, has started on August 9, 2024, with the new leader at the age only 37. Natthaphong Ruangpanyawut said he will is ready to push himself forward, with his unmatched asset being hard work, to lead the party to election victory.
Nicknamed ‘Teng’, Natthapong was born on May 18, 1987, into a business family, similar to Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, the leader of the Future Forward Party, and Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of the Move Forward Party.
Both Thanathorn and Pita have been banned from politics for 10 years after their respective parties were ordered to dissolve by the Constitutional Court.
Natthaphong is the fourth son of Mr. Suchart Ruangpanyawut, Managing Director of Chananthorn Development Group Co., Ltd. (a real estate development business) and Chairman of Ruangpanya Housing Co., Ltd.
He graduated from Taweethapisek School for his secondary education and earned a bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering from Chulalongkorn University. Before entering politics, he was an executive at absolute.co.th, a cloud solution provider.
Natthaphong began his political career by being elected as a Member of Parliament for Bangkok’s 28th constituency, representing the former Future Forward Party in the 2019 general election.
Natthaphong began his political career by being elected as a Member of Parliament for Bangkok’s 28th constituency, representing the former Future Forward Party in the 2019 general election. Later, in the 2023 election, he ran as a party-list MP candidate for the former Move Forward Party and held the position of Deputy Secretary-General for Data System and Digital Development in the former Move Forward Party.”
Natthaphong had previously spoken about his political path and his dreams in an interview with “Prachachat Business”
Technology to Change Thailand
“I have always wanted to contribute to society since I was young. I thought about going into politics and became a member of the Future Forward Party. At that time, the party lacked a district representative, so I ran in Bang Khae district and won with 170 votes.
The Future Forward Party has shown that ordinary people, even if they are not yet successful, can still contribute to society by using their knowledge and experience.
In my work from Future Forward to Move Forward, I played a role in overseeing various information technology issues. A clear example is developing the donation system during elections, where we raised 20 million baht. I also worked as a budget committee member.”
Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut the new party leader of the People’s Party attends the meeting at the Thai Summit building, Bangkok, on August 9, 2024. (KHAOSOD PHOTO)
When asked what he would do if he were in government, Natthaphong said: “Open government is important and can be implemented immediately. Although there has been a lot of discussion about it, not much has really been opened up yet.
From a system developer’s point of view, I dream that the government would set up a central portal that connects software developers from the private sector directly to the government and enables them to provide services in all areas.”
In terms of data economy, he used smart city data as an example, saying that local government organizations are currently only about 15 percent efficient in collecting taxes for billboards. He said he once spoke with a vendor who had a car that resembled a Google Street View vehicle. It drove around and scanned billboards to analyze whether taxes were being fully collected. He said that this was just one example. There are many other things that Thai vendors can do for local authorities.
He added that there are more than 7,000 local governments and the size is enough for Thai operators to grow. What is missing is a clear direction. He said that the government provides special subsidies for local governments amounting to tens of billions of baht.
Therefore, he wants to create a digital catalog from which local governments can choose what kind of digital services they want, such as CCTV cameras like Governor Chatchart’s, PM 2.5 sensors, or AI for tax collection. He believes that in this way, we can transform local governments in Thailand, and the central government would get the data for further analysis.
“It’s about changing the way people work. It may take up to 10 years for technology to change Thailand, but the first thing I would do legally is to abolish the Anti-Fake News Center and amend the Computer Crimes Act. The intention of the law is to protect computer systems, but it has been used to control content, which the government should not be doing.”
Assets Declaration of 402 Million Baht
On July 5, 2023, Natthaphong submitted his asset declaration to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) after leaving the position of MP on 20 March 2023.
Natthaphong, together with his wife, Mrs. Natthaporn Chan-in, declared assets totaling 402.5 million baht. Nattapong’s assets amounted to 397.3 million baht, most of which consisted of investments worth 82.2 million baht, including 65 million baht in ordinary shares of Chanuntorn Development Co, Ltd. and 15.6 million baht in ordinary shares of Ruangpanya Housing Co, Ltd. He also owned four plots of land worth 108 million baht.
Natthaphong Ruangpanyawut, together with his wife, Mrs. Natthaporn Chan-in, declared assets totaling 402.5 million baht.
These included a plot of land in Bang Chueak Nang Subdistrict, Taling Chan District, Bangkok, worth 80 million baht, and four buildings worth 200 million baht, including a two-storey house in Bang Chueak Nang worth 12 million baht and a building under construction in Bang Chueak Nang worth 160 million baht.
He also owned two two-story houses in Bang Sue District worth 28 million baht. Additionally, he reported owning two watches: a Rolex valued at 150,000 baht and a Tag Heuer valued at 80,000 baht, and had debts totaling 10.1 million baht. Meanwhile, Ms. Natthaporn had assets totaling 5.1 million baht.
Nattapong reported an annual income of 2.8 million baht, which came from his net salary, and annual expenses of 1.1 million baht, including 600,000 baht for personal daily expenses and 501,000 baht for house mortgage payments.
Target Election Victory in 2027
After being chosen to be the leader of People’s Party on August 9, Nattapong saidhe is ready to push himself forward, with his unmatched asset being hard work, to lead the party to election victory in 2027 with the goal of winning enough seats to form a single-party government.
“We aim to create a seamless transition from the dissolved party to the People’s Party. We need to recruit 100,000 members and raise 10 million baht within one month. We remain open and are discussing within the party whether the party structure design, as mentioned earlier, should have a larger proportion of executive committee members or not. We can continue these discussions within the party. We may reach a conclusion by the end of next month when we have another general meeting.”
Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut is chosen to be the party leader of the People’s Party on August 9, 2024.
The People’s Party received over 10 million baht in political donations, and over 19,000 people have registered as members. This occurred in less than 10 hours on the first day since it emerged from the ashes of the now-disbanded Move Forward Party.
The new party leader also confirmed that the People’s Party will propose a draft amendment to Article 112, noting that the court’s ruling did not prohibit amendments. He emphasized that the party will not be careless and will proceed carefully, studying all legal aspects.
‘This is not a matter of self-censorship. We propose based on principles. We are not aiming to erode or undermine any institution. According to the current constitution, we must adhere to the Constitutional Court’s ruling,’ said Nattapong.
Rescuers provide first aid to Mr. Robert, a 62-year-old British tourist, before taking him to hospital in Patong, Phuket Province on August 9, 2024.
PHUKET — A British tourist sought help after being assaulted by a Thai man in front of Burger King in Soi Bangla, Patong, opposite New York Bar on Friday morning.
Pol. Col. Chalermchai Hernsawat, Superintendent of Patong Police Station, dispatched patrol officers and Kusoldharm Phuket Foundation staff to investigate. They found the injured victim, Mr. Robert, 62 years old, and provided first aid.
Robert said he had a problem with a Thai man, later identified by police as Mr. Kittipong, 27 years old. He informed Patong police that during the assault, his 3-baht weight gold bracelet also went missing.
Later, police examined CCTV footage which showed that at 8:15 a.m. on August 9, a British tourist wearing a black shirt and shorts was talking to a Thai man in a purple shirt and long yellow pants.
A British tourist seeks help after being assaulted by a Thai man in front of Burger King in Soi Bangla, Patong, on August 9, 2024.
The British man, appearing drunk, told the Thai man, “My wife will give you money later.” The Thai man then sat waiting on the sidewalk, approached again to talk, but the tourist tried to snatch the Thai man’s bag, tearing it. Angered, the Thai man punched the British man.
Another CCTV camera at 8:18 a.m. recorded sounds of fighting and showed the tourist falling onto black garbage bags by the road. The Thai man then jumped and kicked his neck again, snatched the tourist’s bag, and walked away.
A woman’s voice was heard saying to the Thai man, “Don’t hurt him, he’s not in his right mind.” The assaulted tourist, with blood on his face, shouted for help before calling the police.
Police stated they will summon both parties for further investigation at Patong Police Station.
Mr. Nil and Mrs. Chantra Wichuma in Surin province react as their son, "Wave" Weeraphon Wichuma, wins silver in men's 73kg weightlifting at the 2024 Paris Olympics, August 9, 2024.
SURIN — The Thai national team has won another medal at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. “Wave” Weeraphon Wichuma from Surin Province secured the silver medal in the men’s weightlifting category up to 73 kg.
He is another athlete from the northeast of Thailand to win a medal, following “Fang” Theeraphong Silachai from Sisaket province, who won silver in the men’s weightlifting up to 61 kg.
The cheering crowd in Surin for “Wave” Weeraphon was so enthusiastic, even though it was late at night in Thailand, around 1.00 to 2.30 a.m.
At house number 32, Moo 6, Ban Kaen Methee, Kud Wai Subdistrict, Sikhoraphum District, Surin Province, a projector was set up in front of the house on Thursday evening so that relatives, neighbors and villagers could support Weeraphon. His parents, Mr. Nil and Mrs. Chantra Wichuma, focused intently on the screen.
Before the competition, the couple lit incense and prayed to a picture of Luang Singh Thammasaro, a revered monk who Weeraphon respects, which was placed next to the screen.
In the first discipline, the snatch, the fans were very worried as Weeraphon’s score was lower than that of his competitors. During the clean and jerk competition, however, the crowd went wild as Weeraphon improved his performance, catching up and eventually winning 2nd place.
Mr. Nil and Mrs. Chantra Wichuma almost fainted from sheer excitement, whereupon neighbors and relatives offered smelling salts.
Weeraphon Wichuma of Thailand competes during the men’s 73kg weightlifting event at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024, in Paris, France. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)
The parents expressed their great joy in tears. When they saw their son in 9th place, they didn’t know what to do at first and never thought he could catch up. But later they were relieved and proud of their son’s achievement. They plan to fulfill their vow to holy entities as they promised now that success has come. They also thanked the entire nation for cheering their son on.
Afterwards, Weeraphon’s parents bowed to the image of Luang Pu Singh placed next to the projection screen as a gesture of gratitude and relief.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin congratulated Weeraphon on the morning of 9 August, stating, “Thailand’s sixth medal, another source of pride for the Thai people.”
Silver medalist Weeraphon Wichuma of Thailand celebrates on the podium during the medal ceremony for the men’s 73kg weightlifting event, at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024, in Paris, France. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)
The Prime Minister pointed out that our wave not only won the silver medal, but also broke the junior world record in the clean and jerk by lifting 198 kilograms with a total weight of 346 kg — a remarkable achievement.
As for the prize money, Wave Weeraphon will receive 7.2 million baht from the National Sports Development Fund (NDSF) and the Sports Authority of Thailand. The amount will be paid out 50 percent as a lump sum, with the remaining 50 percent being distributed monthly over a period of four years.
Weeraphon will also celebrate his 20th birthday on August 10
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Leaders of the People's Party, established from the Move Forward Party. From left - Sirikanya Tansakul, Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut (the new party leader), Sarayut Jailak (the new party secretary), and Parit Watcharasindhu at the media launch of the People's Party at the Thai Summit building, Bangkok, on August 9, 2024. (KHAOSOD PHOTO)
BANGKOK — The People’s Party, the new name for the Move Forward Party, has found ways to continue their political journey as many, including Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, predicted. This is similar to when the Future Forward Party was dissolved and changed its name to the Move Forward Party in 2020.
All 143 Move Forward Party MPs have registered as members of the People’s Party with 100% participation on August 9, 2024 at the Thai Summit building, Bangkok.
Natthaphong Ruangpanyawut, 37, former deputy secretary-general of the Move Forward Party, has been elected as the leader of the People’s Party. Sarayut Jailak, former director of the Move Forward Party, has been chosen as the new party secretary. Both are close to Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, the chairman of the Progressive Movement and former leader of the Future Forward Party.
Leaders of the People’s Party, established from the Move Forward Party, hold a press conference at the media launch of the People’s Party at the Thai Summit building, Bangkok, on August 9, 2024. (KHAOSOD PHOTO)
Thanathorn posted a message after the Move Forward Party was ordered to dissolve by the Constitutional Court. The dissolution was due to the party promoting the amendment of Article 112, a law that criminalizes insulting the royal family, as a main policy in the 2023 election campaign. Thanathorn’s message, ‘Shrug and move on,’ conveyed an attitude of disregard for the party dissolution and a determination to move forward.
He stated that the Move Forward Party did better than the Future Forward Party, so the party that succeeds Move Forward will do even better, predicting a landslide victory in the next election in 2027.
Natthaphong, nicknamed “Teng,” who graduated from Chulalongkorn University with a degree in computer engineering, said about the People’s Party under his leadership that they will do something very simple: make politics belong to everyone, to the people. As long as they receive this support, he is ready to push himself forward, with his unmatched asset being hard work, to lead the party to election victory.
Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, the new leader of the People’s Party, talks to reporters at the media launch of the People’s Party at the Thai Summit building, Bangkok, on August 9, 2024. (KHAOSOD PHOTO)
When asked if Thanathorn gave him any advice, Nattapong said that they talked a few days ago, and Thanathorn told him that if he takes this position and becomes a prime ministerial candidate, he must develop himself, see policies from many aspects, and work hard.
“I think what Thanathorn recommended is most correct. Today at this press conference, I think one of the most important things is that if I propose myself as a prime ministerial candidate, I will communicate directly. What influences me is ideology and belief, not individuals.”
He also said that regarding prime ministerial candidates, the party has learned from past lessons and will be open to proposing multiple names, but this must be discussed in the future. As for himself, he is ready to represent everyone, while the prime minister must be ready in all aspects. Currently, he is prepared to improve himself further.
The new party leader also confirmed that the People’s Party will propose a draft amendment to Article 112, noting that the court’s ruling did not prohibit amendments. He emphasized that the party will not be careless and will proceed carefully, studying all legal aspects.
‘This is not a matter of self-censorship. We propose based on principles. We are not aiming to erode or undermine any institution. According to the current constitution, we must adhere to the Constitutional Court’s ruling,’ said Natthaphong.
Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut the new party leader of the People’s Party attends the meeting at the Thai Summit building, Bangkok, on August 9, 2024. (KHAOSOD PHOTO)
When asked how he would negotiate with old power groups in the future, Natthaphong said he would not trade the people’s interests or anything that would compromise the party’s ideology.
Sarayut Jailak, the new party secretary, spoke about his close relationship with Thanathorn, saying they’ve known each other for over 20 years, since being deputy of the Student Federation in 2000. They’ve been associated as friends and co-founded parties together since Future Forward.
“As friends, we meet and talk, but we understand well that each organization has its own management and working structure. The decision-making power lies with the party’s executive committee. We work with good understanding,” Sarayut said.
Ms. Sirikanya Tansakul, who was originally expected to be the new party leader, was asked if the party changed because they didn’t want to be compared to Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the female leader of the Pheu Thai Party.
Sirikanya Tansakul
She replied that the party is focusing on the next election. She has the task of working in-depth on policies, developing policies further, working behind the scenes, setting standards for the People’s Party and MPs. It’s a responsibility she willingly accepts, so she should be in a position to support the next party leader. There was no discussion about confrontation or avoiding confrontation with anyone.
The Move Forward Party previously made exciting history when it won the 2023 election with the highest number of MPs, 151 seats, causing the Pheu Thai Party, which had been dissolved twice, to lose for the first time, with a difference of 10 seats.
However, Pheu Thai was able to form a coalition government with parties that had previously supported the military. A crucial factor in this alliance was Pheu Thai’s agreement not to pursue any amendments to Article 112, unlike the Move Forward Party’s stance.
The breaking of the old alliance between Pheu Thai and Move Forward has led supporters of both parties to engage in ongoing political debates. Many cases reflect hate speech rather than rational discourse.
Move Forward supporters accuse Pheu Thai of being treacherous and compromising with old power groups merely to benefit the Shinawatra family.
People’s Party unveils its new logo, which is similar to the Move Forward Party’s.
Pheu Thai supporters retort that the Move Forward Party is “Salim Phase 2,” referring to middle-class groups who consider themselves better, more capable, and more progressive than others, who once came out to support the military’s seizure of power from Yingluck Shinawatra’s government.
This resentment was also expressed on the day Move Forward was ordered to dissolve. Although Chaturon Chaisang, a Pheu Thai MP, posted sympathetic comments and encouraged Move Forward, he was one of those who faced angry reactions from Move Forward supporters.
As the People’s Party unveiled its new logo, Move Forward opponents mockingly pointed out that the party’s logo plagiarized a Japanese energy drink.
Besides the logo, the declaration of the People’s Party political ideology is : Liberty, Equality, Fraternity, which are regarded as the most famous slogan of the French Revolution.
The cover page of People’s Party says: By the people, for the people, building a Thailand where supreme power belongs to the people.
The party states: The People’s Party adheres to the democratic system with the King as Head of State, the rule of law, human dignity, human rights, political, economic, and social equality, decentralization of governance, gender diversity, cultural diversity, free market economy, free and fair competition without monopolies, sustainable development with consideration for natural resources and environmental impacts, welfare system creation, and creating opportunities for humans to live with dignity and quality from birth to death.
The People’s Party believes in the possibility of a new world, new society, and new politics. They affirm the principle that sovereign power belongs to the people, and the use of state power must be related to and connected with the people.
In addition, the disbanded Move Forward Party changed its name and logo on Friday, to that of the People’s Party on social media. The first paragraph of its manifesto partly stated: “The sacred and most enduring institution in the democratic political system is the people who hold sovereign power.”
This expression of identity by the People’s Party, or the former Move Forward Party and former Future Forward Party, should reassure party supporters that the party remains unchanged. However, it raises questions about whether the People’s Party can move forward on a path that doesn’t repeat past experiences of being targeted, and how it will find political allies.
EBC Financial Group (EBC) has partnered with Joe DiNapoli, author of “Trading with DiNapoli Levels.” The collaboration was unveiled at an event in Thailand attended by a diverse audience.
The partnership showcases the application of DiNapoli’s analytical methods across various market strategies. It aims to equip investors with tools to navigate today’s financial markets.
David Barrett, CEO of EBC Financial Group’s UK opened the event with an overview of the regulatory landscape affecting financial brokerages and detailed the role of key regulators in maintaining system stability and integrity across various jurisdictions.
Barrett highlighted the significant evolution of the regulatory environment, noting that many less stringent jurisdictions previously attracted those who preferred easier regulations. Since the financial crisis, there has been a concerted effort to elevate these jurisdictions to higher compliance standards. This shift has resulted in a more robust and reliable regulatory framework worldwide.
DiNapoli illustrated how his use of advanced indicators like the MACD predictor and the Detrended Oscillator Predictor (DOP) transformed his approach.
