Thailand's progressive party Pheu Thai released a statement on Wednesday saying that it will nominate a real estate tycoon to become the prime minister after the reformist party that won the general election was excluded from a coalition trying to form the next government

The country has been in political limbo since the May 14 election after it was won by the Move Forward party with the support of young voters who were tired of rule by military-linked governments, closely followed by the populist Pheu Thai.

Pheu Thai, the party formed by former telecom&nbsp;tycoon Thaksin Shinawatra, said it would nominate Srettha Thavisin for prime minister in a parliamentary vote that was scheduled on Friday.&nbsp;

It said that the Move Forward Party was now no longer a part of the efforts in forming a government. Even after winning majority seats in the elections, the party faced opposition from pro-military parties and members of the military-appointed upper house Senate, which was startled by its reform agenda.

Pheu Thai leader Chonlanan Srikaew announced that MFP was dumped from the coalition.

"The formation of the new government will not include MFP," he told reporters.

"Pheu Thai will work to get enough votes, MFP will be in opposition, and we will work in a new dimension that is beneficial to the people."

"Pheu Thai has supported Move Forward to our fullest ability," he said further describing his party's decision to ditch its ally and take the lead in forming a government.

Earlier, Move Forward's attempt to get its leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, voted in as prime minister was rejected by conservatives twice.

Rangsiman Rome, a Move Forward lawmaker, told reporters he was shocked by Pheu Thai's decision to leave their alliance.

"I thought we were married. Today ... it's like a divorce," Rangsiman said near Pheu Thai's headquarters, where more than 100 people gathered to protest against the sidelining of Move Forward.

"You betrayed the people," some protesters shouted, referring to Pheu Thai.

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Pheu Thai's nominee for prime minister, Srettha, has very little political experience. He co-founded Bangkok-listed Sansiri, one of Thailand's largest real estate developers.

As per news agency Reuters reports, members of a new alliance that will seek to form the next government would be revealed on Thursday.

Pheu Thai's attempt in forming a government comes as Thaksin is all set to return to Thailand after almost spending 15 years in self-exile.

<h2>Thai court suspends Pita</h2>

Pita Limjaroenrat, the prime ministerial candidate in Thailand, was temporarily suspended from parliament on Wednesday (July 19) by a Constitutional Court.

The move came after a case against him was accepted alleging he was unqualified to run in the May 14 election.&nbsp;

The suspension was announced when Pita was returning to parliament for another day of deliberation on whether he could become prime minister after his initial effort failed by 51 votes last week.&nbsp;

The court released a statement saying that Pita has 15 days to respond.

A complaint was filed by the Election Commission against the Move Forward Party (MFP) leader condemning him for violating election laws for allegedly holding shares in a media company.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Thailand's progressive party Pheu Thai released a statement on Wednesday saying that it will nominate a real estate tycoon to become the prime minister after the reformist party that won the general election was excluded from a coalition trying to form the next government The country has been in political limbo since the May 14 election after it was won by the Move Forward party with the support of young voters who were tired of rule by military-linked governments, closely followed by the populist Pheu Thai.

Thailand's progressive party Pheu Thai released a statement on Wednesday saying that it will nominate a real estate tycoon to become the prime minister after the reformist party that won the general election was excluded from a coalition trying to form the next government The country has been in political limbo since the May 14 election after it was won by the Move Forward party with the support of young voters who were tired of rule by military-linked governments, closely followed by the populist Pheu Thai. Pheu Thai, the party formed by former telecom tycoon Thaksin Shinawatra, said it would nominate Srettha Thavisin for prime minister in a parliamentary vote that was scheduled on Friday. It said that the Move Forward Party was now no longer a part of the efforts in forming a government. Even after winning majority seats in the elections, the party faced opposition from pro-military parties and members of the military-appointed upper house Senate, which was startled by its reform agenda. Pheu Thai leader Chonlanan Srikaew announced that MFP was dumped from the coalition. "The formation of the new government will not include MFP," he told reporters. "Pheu Thai will work to get enough votes, MFP will be in opposition, and we will work in a new dimension that is beneficial to the people." "Pheu Thai has supported Move Forward to our fullest ability," he said further describing his party's decision to ditch its ally and take the lead in forming a government. Earlier, Move Forward's attempt to get its leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, voted in as prime minister was rejected by conservatives twice. Rangsiman Rome, a Move Forward lawmaker, told reporters he was shocked by Pheu Thai's decision to leave their alliance. "I thought we were married. Today ... it's like a divorce," Rangsiman said near Pheu Thai's headquarters, where more than 100 people gathered to protest against the sidelining of Move Forward. "You betrayed the people," some protesters shouted, referring to Pheu Thai. Also read: Beijing receives heaviest rainfall since records began 140 years ago Pheu Thai's nominee for prime minister, Srettha, has very little political experience. He co-founded Bangkok-listed Sansiri, one of Thailand's largest real estate developers. As per news agency Reuters reports, members of a new alliance that will seek to form the next government would be revealed on Thursday. Pheu Thai's attempt in forming a government comes as Thaksin is all set to return to Thailand after almost spending 15 years in self-exile. Thai court suspends Pita Pita Limjaroenrat, the prime ministerial candidate in Thailand, was temporarily suspended from parliament on Wednesday (July 19) by a Constitutional Court. The move came after a case against him was accepted alleging he was unqualified to run in the May 14 election. The suspension was announced when Pita was returning to parliament for another day of deliberation on whether he could become prime minister after his initial effort failed by 51 votes last week. The court released a statement saying that Pita has 15 days to respond. A complaint was filed by the Election Commission against the Move Forward Party (MFP) leader condemning him for violating election laws for allegedly holding shares in a media company. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Thailand: Pheu Thai to dump election winner Move Forward Party, form new coalition

A blast at a firework warehouse on Saturday, in Thailand claimed the lives of at least 12 people and wounded more than 100, the news agency AFP reported citing a senior official.

The explosion in the town of Sungai Kolok in the southern province of Narathiwat is thought to have been caused by welding during construction work on the building.

"A warehouse storing firecrackers in Sungai Kolok exploded this afternoon, the latest number is nine dead and 115 injured," Narathiwat governor Sanan Pongaksorn earlier&nbsp;told AFP.

"The fire is now under control. Preliminary investigation suggests the cause is a technical error during the steel welding process, as the building is under construction," he added.

The footage shared by local media showed a huge plume of smoke engulfing the area and the devastation caused by the incident causing&nbsp;damage to local shops, vehicles and homes.

According to broadcaster Thai PBS, as many as 500 houses were damaged by the blast in the border town on the frontier with Malaysia.

"I was playing with my phone inside the house then suddenly I heard a loud, thunderous noise and my whole house shook," eyewitness Seksan Taesen, who lives 100 metres away from the warehouse, AFP.

"Then I saw my roof was wide open. I looked outside and I saw house collapsing and people lying on the ground everywhere. It was chaos." &nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/typhoon-doksuri-china-issues-red-alert-for-torrential-rain-in-beijing-thousands-evacuated-620620">Typhoon Doksuri: China issues red alert for torrential rain in Beijing, thousands evacuated</a>

Thailand has a poor safety record in the construction sector and deadly accidents are common.

<h2>Two killed, 11 injured as under-construction elevated road collapses in Bangkok</h2>

Earlier, at least two people lost their lives and 11 others were injured after an elevated road in Bangkok collapsed on Monday (July 10). The elevated road had been under construction since 2020. The report said that authorities had launched an investigation to find out the reason for the collapse.&nbsp;

Bangkok governor Chadchart Sittipan released a statement saying that the accident should not have happened. “Someone needs to be responsible for this because someone died...this wasn’t something unpreventable,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A blast at a firework warehouse on Saturday, in Thailand claimed the lives of at least 12 people and wounded more than 100, the news agency AFP reported citing a senior official.

A blast at a firework warehouse on Saturday, in Thailand claimed the lives of at least 12 people and wounded more than 100, the news agency AFP reported citing a senior official. The explosion in the town of Sungai Kolok in the southern province of Narathiwat is thought to have been caused by welding during construction work on the building. "A warehouse storing firecrackers in Sungai Kolok exploded this afternoon, the latest number is nine dead and 115 injured," Narathiwat governor Sanan Pongaksorn earlier told AFP. "The fire is now under control. Preliminary investigation suggests the cause is a technical error during the steel welding process, as the building is under construction," he added. The footage shared by local media showed a huge plume of smoke engulfing the area and the devastation caused by the incident causing damage to local shops, vehicles and homes. According to broadcaster Thai PBS, as many as 500 houses were damaged by the blast in the border town on the frontier with Malaysia. "I was playing with my phone inside the house then suddenly I heard a loud, thunderous noise and my whole house shook," eyewitness Seksan Taesen, who lives 100 metres away from the warehouse, AFP. "Then I saw my roof was wide open. I looked outside and I saw house collapsing and people lying on the ground everywhere. It was chaos." Also read: Typhoon Doksuri: China issues red alert for torrential rain in Beijing, thousands evacuated Thailand has a poor safety record in the construction sector and deadly accidents are common. Two killed, 11 injured as under-construction elevated road collapses in Bangkok Earlier, at least two people lost their lives and 11 others were injured after an elevated road in Bangkok collapsed on Monday (July 10). The elevated road had been under construction since 2020. The report said that authorities had launched an investigation to find out the reason for the collapse. Bangkok governor Chadchart Sittipan released a statement saying that the accident should not have happened. “Someone needs to be responsible for this because someone died...this wasn’t something unpreventable,” he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Thailand: 12 dead, 115 injured in explosion, blaze at fireworks warehouse

Former Thailand Prime Minister Thaksin Shinwatra is planning to return to the country on August 10, his daughter said on Wednesday (July 26). If he comes to Thailand, it will be his return from self-exile to the country that's struggling to tide over a political deadlock after an election in May which was won by opponents of the military rule.

Thaksin, a former telecom&nbsp;tycoon, spent years resisting military interference in governments led by his party. He was eventually ousted in a 2006 coup. Two years later, he left the country to avoid corruption convictions. He claimed that the charges were politically motivated.

"Dad is returning on 10 August," Thaksin's youngest daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, said in a social media post.

Paetongtarn is a senior member of the Pheu Thai party, the latest incarnation of a party founded by and loyal to Thaksin, which came second in the May election to the progressive Move Forward Party.

The two parties with great performance in the elections have been trying to form a government with the help of six like-minded partner but these efforts have been stymied by opposition from military-appointed upper house Senate and conservative opponents.

Thaksin was Thailand's premier from 2001 until he was ousted in 2006. Since 2008, he has lived in self-imposed exile. For his convictions, he faces up to 10 years in prison.

When the 74-year-old returns, he would be subjected to the judicial process, said deputy national police chief Surachate Hakparn&nbsp;

"The police will conduct their duties normally when the plane lands. He will have to go to court and listen to what they decide," Surachate told Reuters.

A Pheu Thai official declined to comment on Thaksin's return, saying the party was not involved. Thaksin has vowed to come back before only to change his mind.

Thaksin made no mention of any personal political ambitions in his message to supporters. But he said that he wanted to thank them for backing Pheu Thai.

"The economy will vastly improve under a Pheu Thai government," he said.

<h2>Hold of the military</h2>

In Thailand, a prime minister has to be voted in during a joint sitting of the two houses of the parliament, as per the a constitution drafted under military rule. The critics of this provision say that this allows military-appointed Senate the power to block parties that see their influence diminished in spite of having won most seats to form a government.

Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of the liberal Move Forward party, which won the most seats in May with the backing of young voters, has been blocked from becoming prime minister largely because of his party's aim to amend a law that punishes insulting the monarchy with up to 15 years in jail.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former Thailand Prime Minister Thaksin Shinwatra is planning to return to the country on August 10, his daughter said on Wednesday (July 26). If he comes to Thailand, it will be his return from self-exile to the country that's struggling to tide over a political deadlock after an election in May which was won by opponents of the military rule.

Former Thailand Prime Minister Thaksin Shinwatra is planning to return to the country on August 10, his daughter said on Wednesday (July 26). If he comes to Thailand, it will be his return from self-exile to the country that's struggling to tide over a political deadlock after an election in May which was won by opponents of the military rule. Thaksin, a former telecom tycoon, spent years resisting military interference in governments led by his party. He was eventually ousted in a 2006 coup. Two years later, he left the country to avoid corruption convictions. He claimed that the charges were politically motivated. "Dad is returning on 10 August," Thaksin's youngest daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, said in a social media post. Paetongtarn is a senior member of the Pheu Thai party, the latest incarnation of a party founded by and loyal to Thaksin, which came second in the May election to the progressive Move Forward Party. The two parties with great performance in the elections have been trying to form a government with the help of six like-minded partner but these efforts have been stymied by opposition from military-appointed upper house Senate and conservative opponents. Thaksin was Thailand's premier from 2001 until he was ousted in 2006. Since 2008, he has lived in self-imposed exile. For his convictions, he faces up to 10 years in prison. When the 74-year-old returns, he would be subjected to the judicial process, said deputy national police chief Surachate Hakparn "The police will conduct their duties normally when the plane lands. He will have to go to court and listen to what they decide," Surachate told Reuters. A Pheu Thai official declined to comment on Thaksin's return, saying the party was not involved. Thaksin has vowed to come back before only to change his mind. Thaksin made no mention of any personal political ambitions in his message to supporters. But he said that he wanted to thank them for backing Pheu Thai. "The economy will vastly improve under a Pheu Thai government," he said. Hold of the military In Thailand, a prime minister has to be voted in during a joint sitting of the two houses of the parliament, as per the a constitution drafted under military rule. The critics of this provision say that this allows military-appointed Senate the power to block parties that see their influence diminished in spite of having won most seats to form a government. Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of the liberal Move Forward party, which won the most seats in May with the backing of young voters, has been blocked from becoming prime minister largely because of his party's aim to amend a law that punishes insulting the monarchy with up to 15 years in jail. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ex-Thai PM Thaksin plans to return as Thailand battles deadlock

Thailand's reformist party, which won the recent election, on Friday, said that it would support a coalition partner candidate to become prime minister after its own leader was temporarily suspended from parliament.

The Move Forward Party (MFP), which received backing from the young and urban voters in the country, said that its main aim was to restore civilian government and not to take the Prime Minister's job.

After MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat was defeated in a leadership vote last week, the party said it would now support the nominee from its coalition partner Pheu Thai, which came second in May's election.

"The most important thing is not that Pita will become PM, but the fact that Thailand would be able to become a democratic country," MFP secretary-general Chaitawat Tulathon said.

"MFP will allow the second party, Pheu Thai, to become the main party of the eight coalition parties," Chaitawat said.

"In the next parliamentary meeting, MFP will vote for PT's PM candidate, just like PT voted for MFP's PM candidate."

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<h2>Thai court suspends Pita</h2>

Pita Limjaroenrat, the prime ministerial candidate in Thailand, was temporarily suspended from parliament on Wednesday (July 19) by a Constitutional Court.

The move came after a case against him was accepted alleging he was unqualified to run in the&nbsp;May 14 election.&nbsp;

The suspension was announced when Pita was returning to parliament for another day of deliberation on whether he could become prime minister after his initial effort failed by 51 votes last week.&nbsp;

The court released a statement saying that Pita has 15 days to respond.

A complaint was filed by the Election Commission against the Move Forward Party (MFP) leader condemning him for violating election laws for allegedly holding shares in a media company.&nbsp;

The court announced that it would hear a case on whether Pita should be removed from parliament entirely for owning shares in a media company. It also ordered him to leave the assembly in the meantime.

"It was commanded that the respondent must suspend his role... until the Constitutional Court has made its decision," the court said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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Thailand's reformist party, which won the recent election, on Friday, said that it would support a coalition partner candidate to become prime minister after its own leader was temporarily suspended from parliament.

Thailand's reformist party, which won the recent election, on Friday, said that it would support a coalition partner candidate to become prime minister after its own leader was temporarily suspended from parliament. The Move Forward Party (MFP), which received backing from the young and urban voters in the country, said that its main aim was to restore civilian government and not to take the Prime Minister's job. After MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat was defeated in a leadership vote last week, the party said it would now support the nominee from its coalition partner Pheu Thai, which came second in May's election. "The most important thing is not that Pita will become PM, but the fact that Thailand would be able to become a democratic country," MFP secretary-general Chaitawat Tulathon said. "MFP will allow the second party, Pheu Thai, to become the main party of the eight coalition parties," Chaitawat said. "In the next parliamentary meeting, MFP will vote for PT's PM candidate, just like PT voted for MFP's PM candidate." Also read: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismisses country's ambassador to the United Kingdom Thai court suspends Pita Pita Limjaroenrat, the prime ministerial candidate in Thailand, was temporarily suspended from parliament on Wednesday (July 19) by a Constitutional Court. The move came after a case against him was accepted alleging he was unqualified to run in the May 14 election. The suspension was announced when Pita was returning to parliament for another day of deliberation on whether he could become prime minister after his initial effort failed by 51 votes last week. The court released a statement saying that Pita has 15 days to respond. A complaint was filed by the Election Commission against the Move Forward Party (MFP) leader condemning him for violating election laws for allegedly holding shares in a media company. The court announced that it would hear a case on whether Pita should be removed from parliament entirely for owning shares in a media company. It also ordered him to leave the assembly in the meantime. "It was commanded that the respondent must suspend his role... until the Constitutional Court has made its decision," the court said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Thailand reformist party to support coalition partner candidate after Prime Minister vote defeat

Thailand election-winning Move Forward Party’s leader and frontrunner to become the country’s next prime minister, Pita Limjaroenrat, on Saturday (July 15) said he will withdraw his candidacy if parliament does not endorse him next week. The move will also pave the way for his political ally to lead the new government if his PM bid fails.&nbsp;

<h2>Pita’s PM run so far</h2>

The 42-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/thailands-winning-candidate-pita-limjaroenrat-loses-parliamentary-vote-to-become-pm-615148">could not</a> muster up enough support due to a host of abstentions and votes against him, on Thursday and failed to get the desired majority vote in the country’s 749-member parliament to become the next PM.

The votes come months after his party won the most seats in the May elections, supported mainly by young Thais eager for progressive reforms after nearly a decade of army-backed rule in Thailand.&nbsp;

However, Pita’s leadership bid was foiled, last week, after new election rules were amended post the 2014 military coup, in line with which the party with the most parliament seats needs the backing of some military-appointed 250 senators in the parliament.

Pita failed to secure a 375 votes majority in the parliament after only 324 people supported him, 182 voted against him, and 199 lawmakers abstained. Out of which only 13 senators backed him. At the time, he had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thailand-elections-pita-promises-to-not-give-up-615427/#disqualify-pita-615414">accepted defeat</a> and said, “I accept but will not give up.”

<h2>What now?</h2>

The Thai PM frontrunner said that he will face another vote on Wednesday. However, if he fails again Pita said he would support a candidate from coalition partner Pheu Thai party. “I’d like to apologise that we haven’t succeeded,” said Pita, in a video address posted on social media.&nbsp;

“If it becomes clear that Move Forward Party cannot realistically lead government formation then I am...open to having the party that came second, which is Pheu Thai, to lead,” he added.&nbsp;

Pita said all Move Forward members of parliament will back Pheu Thai’s PM candidates.&nbsp;

Pheu Thai, which came second in the election and is Move Forward’s key partner in the eight-party alliance, holds 141 seats in the Lower House, 10 less than Move Forward; together they hold the majority 312 seats in the 500-seat Lower House. On the other hand, all 250 senators were appointed under the junta-drafted constitution.&nbsp;

Pheu Thai’s candidates for PM include real estate tycoon Srettha Thavisin and Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter and niece of former premiers Thaksin Shinawatra and Yingluck Shinawatra, both of whom were overthrown after coups.&nbsp;

Pita also urged his supporters, on Saturday, to come up with creative ways in urging senators to back the Move Forward leader in the upcoming round of voting. “I alone can’t change the senators’ mind. Therefore, I ask everybody to help with this mission…Send a message to the senators in every way possible, every way you can think of,” said Pita.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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Thailand election-winning Move Forward Party’s leader and frontrunner to become the country’s next prime minister, Pita Limjaroenrat, on Saturday (July 15) said he will withdraw his candidacy if parliament does not endorse him next week.

Thailand election-winning Move Forward Party’s leader and frontrunner to become the country’s next prime minister, Pita Limjaroenrat, on Saturday (July 15) said he will withdraw his candidacy if parliament does not endorse him next week. The move will also pave the way for his political ally to lead the new government if his PM bid fails. Pita’s PM run so far The 42-year-old could not muster up enough support due to a host of abstentions and votes against him, on Thursday and failed to get the desired majority vote in the country’s 749-member parliament to become the next PM. The votes come months after his party won the most seats in the May elections, supported mainly by young Thais eager for progressive reforms after nearly a decade of army-backed rule in Thailand. However, Pita’s leadership bid was foiled, last week, after new election rules were amended post the 2014 military coup, in line with which the party with the most parliament seats needs the backing of some military-appointed 250 senators in the parliament. Pita failed to secure a 375 votes majority in the parliament after only 324 people supported him, 182 voted against him, and 199 lawmakers abstained. Out of which only 13 senators backed him. At the time, he had accepted defeat and said, “I accept but will not give up.” What now? The Thai PM frontrunner said that he will face another vote on Wednesday. However, if he fails again Pita said he would support a candidate from coalition partner Pheu Thai party. “I’d like to apologise that we haven’t succeeded,” said Pita, in a video address posted on social media. “If it becomes clear that Move Forward Party cannot realistically lead government formation then I am...open to having the party that came second, which is Pheu Thai, to lead,” he added. Pita said all Move Forward members of parliament will back Pheu Thai’s PM candidates. Pheu Thai, which came second in the election and is Move Forward’s key partner in the eight-party alliance, holds 141 seats in the Lower House, 10 less than Move Forward; together they hold the majority 312 seats in the 500-seat Lower House. On the other hand, all 250 senators were appointed under the junta-drafted constitution. Pheu Thai’s candidates for PM include real estate tycoon Srettha Thavisin and Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter and niece of former premiers Thaksin Shinawatra and Yingluck Shinawatra, both of whom were overthrown after coups. Pita also urged his supporters, on Saturday, to come up with creative ways in urging senators to back the Move Forward leader in the upcoming round of voting. “I alone can’t change the senators’ mind. Therefore, I ask everybody to help with this mission…Send a message to the senators in every way possible, every way you can think of,” said Pita. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Thailand: Move Forward's Pita Limjaroenrat to withdraw from PM race if he loses another vote

Thailand's outgoing prime minister Prayut Chan-o-Cha announced on Tuesday his retirement from politics, but will remain as the country's leader until the formation of a new government.

A long-running fixture in Thai politics, the army chief seized power in a 2014 coup before cementing his control in highly controversial 2019 elections.

His decision comes just days before a key vote in Thailand's parliament that could see the next prime minister elected, following a May election when voters emphatically rejected army-backed parties.

"From now on, I quit politics by resigning as a member of the UTN party," he said in a statement posted on the United Thai Nation (UTN) party's official Facebook page.

The party -- which Prayut joined only weeks before May's elections -- failed to gain traction with voters, coming in a distant fifth place behind the opposition Move Forward Party (MFP) and Pheu Thai.

The opposition groups were galvanised by a wave of support across the country, as voters rejected a near-decade of army-backed rule and opted for reform.

MFP's determination to amend Thailand's tough laws that protect the all-powerful royal family also garnered popularity during the election campaign.

Leader Pita Limjareonrat has said his party would not shy from the challenge, telling reporters on election night that "no matter what, we will push for royal lese majeste law reform".

In his statement, Prayut urged members of UTN to protect "the institutions of nation, religion, and monarchy" -- a reference to the previously untouchable three pillars of Thai society.

Prayut will remain as caretaker prime minister until the formation of a new government.

<h2>Political strategy?</h2>

Prayut's popularity had been on a downward spiral in the last year, as he battled divisions within his sprawling coalition -- barely surviving in July 2022 his fourth no-confidence vote.

His government has faced intense criticism over its handling of the Covid-19 pandemic and the economy, with Thailand recording its worst economic performance since the 1990s under his tenure.

And large, youth-led pro-democracy rallies that sprang up in Bangkok in 2020 called for his resignation, as well as more wide-reaching reforms.

But Napisa Waitoolkiat, a political analyst at Naresuan University, was adamant Thailand has not seen the last of him.

"I think he is doing some political strategy, because why now?" she told AFP, referencing the upcoming prime ministerial vote.

"It does not make sense."

"I would say this is a clear move that Prayut has himself played," Waitoolkiat added, suggesting that his political career was not over.

Born in 1954 into a military family in northeastern Thailand, Prayut rose from military college to become commander of the prestigious Queen's Guards in 1980.

In 2010, forces under Prayut's command opened fire and killed scores of "Red Shirt" protesters -- mostly rural supporters of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who was ousted in a 2006 coup.

Four years later, Prayut launched the latest of the dozen coups to have rocked Thai democracy over the last 90 years, ousting Thaksin's sister Yingluck Shinawatra's democratically elected government.

Prayut introduced martial law and headed a junta regime for five years before clinging to power in a disputed 2019 election with the help of a handpicked senate.

Under Prayut's government, lese majeste prosecutions rocketed.

More than 200 people faced royal defamation charges in the wake of the 2020 street protests, which included calls for changes to the previously untouchable monarchy.

Thailand's outgoing prime minister Prayut Chan-o-Cha announced on Tuesday his retirement from politics, but will remain as the country's leader until the formation of a new government.

Thailand's outgoing prime minister Prayut Chan-o-Cha announced on Tuesday his retirement from politics, but will remain as the country's leader until the formation of a new government. A long-running fixture in Thai politics, the army chief seized power in a 2014 coup before cementing his control in highly controversial 2019 elections. His decision comes just days before a key vote in Thailand's parliament that could see the next prime minister elected, following a May election when voters emphatically rejected army-backed parties. "From now on, I quit politics by resigning as a member of the UTN party," he said in a statement posted on the United Thai Nation (UTN) party's official Facebook page. The party -- which Prayut joined only weeks before May's elections -- failed to gain traction with voters, coming in a distant fifth place behind the opposition Move Forward Party (MFP) and Pheu Thai. The opposition groups were galvanised by a wave of support across the country, as voters rejected a near-decade of army-backed rule and opted for reform. MFP's determination to amend Thailand's tough laws that protect the all-powerful royal family also garnered popularity during the election campaign. Leader Pita Limjareonrat has said his party would not shy from the challenge, telling reporters on election night that "no matter what, we will push for royal lese majeste law reform". In his statement, Prayut urged members of UTN to protect "the institutions of nation, religion, and monarchy" -- a reference to the previously untouchable three pillars of Thai society. Prayut will remain as caretaker prime minister until the formation of a new government. Political strategy? Prayut's popularity had been on a downward spiral in the last year, as he battled divisions within his sprawling coalition -- barely surviving in July 2022 his fourth no-confidence vote. His government has faced intense criticism over its handling of the Covid-19 pandemic and the economy, with Thailand recording its worst economic performance since the 1990s under his tenure. And large, youth-led pro-democracy rallies that sprang up in Bangkok in 2020 called for his resignation, as well as more wide-reaching reforms. But Napisa Waitoolkiat, a political analyst at Naresuan University, was adamant Thailand has not seen the last of him. "I think he is doing some political strategy, because why now?" she told AFP, referencing the upcoming prime ministerial vote. "It does not make sense." "I would say this is a clear move that Prayut has himself played," Waitoolkiat added, suggesting that his political career was not over. Born in 1954 into a military family in northeastern Thailand, Prayut rose from military college to become commander of the prestigious Queen's Guards in 1980. In 2010, forces under Prayut's command opened fire and killed scores of "Red Shirt" protesters -- mostly rural supporters of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who was ousted in a 2006 coup. Four years later, Prayut launched the latest of the dozen coups to have rocked Thai democracy over the last 90 years, ousting Thaksin's sister Yingluck Shinawatra's democratically elected government. Prayut introduced martial law and headed a junta regime for five years before clinging to power in a disputed 2019 election with the help of a handpicked senate. Under Prayut's government, lese majeste prosecutions rocketed. More than 200 people faced royal defamation charges in the wake of the 2020 street protests, which included calls for changes to the previously untouchable monarchy.

Thailand's outgoing prime minister Prayut Chan-o-Cha announces retirement from politics

Koh Samui, a popular tourist destination located off the east coast of Thailand is facing an acute water shortage. Located in the&nbsp;Chumphon archipelago, authorities are working overtime to ensure that the island, famous for its white sandy beaches, scenic temples and luxury resorts -&nbsp;does not become a 'disaster zone'.&nbsp;

Lack of rain and a large influx of tourists are being dubbed as the primary reasons for the precarious situation. Sutham Samthong, a deputy mayor of Koh Samui has urged the public to use supplies sparingly to get through the difficult period.&nbsp;

“I would like to ask people to save water, use it sparingly. If we help each other, we can go through this,” said Samthong.

“We are not complacent. We are trying to solve the situation. We don’t want the provincial or upper [administration] to announce that Koh Samui is a disaster zone,” he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/twitters-ultimatum-to-tweetdeck-users-verification-required-in-these-many-days-611590">Also read |&nbsp;Twitter's ultimatum to TweetDeck users, verification required in these many days</a>

There has been a drastic reduction in the water levels of&nbsp;the Phru Na Muang and Phru Krajud reservoirs and the Hin Lard waterfall, which has contributed to the current predicament. If the water supplies are not sorted quickly, the island only has enough&nbsp;local freshwater supplies for residents for just 30 days.

Currently, the locals are being forced to shell out as much as 250 to 300 baht ($7-$8.5)&nbsp;for about 2,000 litres of water for daily use.&nbsp;

Samthong states that the island needs 30,000 cubic metres of water a day. The authorities are working to bring&nbsp;24,000 cubic metres through&nbsp;an underwater pipeline from Surat Thani on the mainland, while reservoir supplies would be used for the remaining amount. An additional 30,000 cubic metres is also expected to be brought in the boost the supplies, according to&nbsp;Provincial Waterworks Authority.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/explainer-the-high-cost-of-el-nino-in-2023-609183">WATCH |&nbsp;Explainer: the high cost of El Nino in 2023</a>

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<h2>Tourism could be affected</h2>

Despite authorities fetching water from different sources, the problems could compound due to the El Nino phenomenon, which may lead to even less rain for the island.&nbsp;

The tourist spot has welcomed over one million foreign tourists in the past five months. The water supply crunch could put the entire hospitality industry in jeopardy which had only recently started to recoup the losses suffered during the pandemic.&nbsp;

According to a report in the Guardian, during the pandemic, the number of rooms available on the island, including in hotels and villas fell to just 5,000. However, it has since recovered to 25,000, the same level as 2019.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Koh Samui, a popular tourist destination located off the east coast of Thailand is facing an acute water shortage. Located in the Chumphon archipelago, authorities are working overtime to ensure that the island, famous for its white sandy beaches, scenic temples and luxury resorts - does not become a 'disaster zone'.

Koh Samui, a popular tourist destination located off the east coast of Thailand is facing an acute water shortage. Located in the Chumphon archipelago, authorities are working overtime to ensure that the island, famous for its white sandy beaches, scenic temples and luxury resorts - does not become a 'disaster zone'. Lack of rain and a large influx of tourists are being dubbed as the primary reasons for the precarious situation. Sutham Samthong, a deputy mayor of Koh Samui has urged the public to use supplies sparingly to get through the difficult period. “I would like to ask people to save water, use it sparingly. If we help each other, we can go through this,” said Samthong. “We are not complacent. We are trying to solve the situation. We don’t want the provincial or upper [administration] to announce that Koh Samui is a disaster zone,” he added. Also read | Twitter's ultimatum to TweetDeck users, verification required in these many days There has been a drastic reduction in the water levels of the Phru Na Muang and Phru Krajud reservoirs and the Hin Lard waterfall, which has contributed to the current predicament. If the water supplies are not sorted quickly, the island only has enough local freshwater supplies for residents for just 30 days. Currently, the locals are being forced to shell out as much as 250 to 300 baht ($7-$8.5) for about 2,000 litres of water for daily use. Samthong states that the island needs 30,000 cubic metres of water a day. The authorities are working to bring 24,000 cubic metres through an underwater pipeline from Surat Thani on the mainland, while reservoir supplies would be used for the remaining amount. An additional 30,000 cubic metres is also expected to be brought in the boost the supplies, according to Provincial Waterworks Authority. WATCH | Explainer: the high cost of El Nino in 2023 × Tourism could be affected Despite authorities fetching water from different sources, the problems could compound due to the El Nino phenomenon, which may lead to even less rain for the island. The tourist spot has welcomed over one million foreign tourists in the past five months. The water supply crunch could put the entire hospitality industry in jeopardy which had only recently started to recoup the losses suffered during the pandemic. According to a report in the Guardian, during the pandemic, the number of rooms available on the island, including in hotels and villas fell to just 5,000. However, it has since recovered to 25,000, the same level as 2019. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Popular Thai island Koh Samui facing existential crisis as water runs out

In Pics | Road trip to Thailand from India? International highway project nears completion

Thailand got into a diplomatic spat with Sri Lanka over an elephant which the former country had gifted to the latter two decades ago. The issue is over the alleged mistreatment of the 29-year-old Thai elephant Sak Surin, also known as Muthu Raja. The elephant was airlifted from Sri Lanka and arrived in Thailand on Sunday (July 2) afternoon. The 29-year-old, 4,000-kg mammal arrived in Thailand just after 2:00 pm (local time) on Sunday.

<h2>Muthu Raja elephant: What happened?</h2>

The Thai royal family in 2001 gifted Sak Surin, who came to be known as Muthu Raja, to the Sri Lankan government.&nbsp;

Sak Surin was gifted to a temple where it got the new name and was honoured in religious processions. However, an activist group Rally for Animal Rights and Environment (RARE) alleged that the mammal was being mistreated, tortured and neglected.&nbsp;

Last year, it lobbied to ask Thai officials to intervene. Until then, Muthu Raja was staying at the Kande Viharaya temple. RARE claimed that the elephant had a stiff leg after being forced to work with a logging crew and that its wounds, some allegedly inflicted by its handler, had been long-neglected.

“This is not the end, but the beginning of a new life for Muthu Raja,” said RARE founder, Panchali Panapitiya. The temple had agreed to transfer the elephant last November to Sri Lanka’s National Zoological Garden.&nbsp;

<h2>Health concerns of Muthu Raja elephant</h2>

Madusha Perera, a veterinary surgeon at the zoo told AFP, that Muthu Raja was in pain and covered in abscesses when it was rescued from the Buddhist temple last year. However, as of Friday, the abscesses which the elephant was suffering from have mostly healed. But due to the lack of facilities, Perera said, the zoo has not been able to fully treat its leg.&nbsp;

“Once he gets back to Thailand, the experts there will attend to the conditions so that one day we will be able to see him walk the normal way,” said Perera. According to the visiting Thai veterinarian, the elephant’s treatment in Thailand could include hydrotherapy, laser treatment and acupuncture.&nbsp;

Elephants are considered sacred in Sri Lanka and are protected by law. Therefore, RARE, expressing their unhappiness over Muthu Raja’s departure from the temple, said those responsible for neglecting the animal should be prosecuted.&nbsp;

Panapitiya also said that they were unsuccessful in raising the issue of Muthu Raja’s health with the Sri Lankan government and turned to the Thai government. The group also said that the lack of timely intervention from Sri Lankan wildlife officials has brought “disrepute” to the country.

<h2>Will this affect ties between the two countries?</h2>

Muthu Raja left Colombo at 7:40 am (local time) on a flight which Thai officials said cost $700,000, however, did not mention which country is paying for it. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka-based wildlife environmentalist Jagath Gunawardana said Muthu Raja was a gift which has been taken back and it will have a negative effect on the ties between the countries.&nbsp;

Last month, Sri Lanka Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena told the parliament that he personally conveyed the country’s regret to the Thai king over the elephant’s condition.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Thai environment minister Varawut Silpa-archa said that Thailand has stopped sending elephants abroad while the conditions of those already overseas are being checked by Bangkok’s diplomatic missions.&nbsp;

Speaking about the elephant’s arrival, Varawut at the airport said, “He arrived in Chiang Mai perfectly.” He added, “He travelled five hours and nothing is wrong, his condition is normal.” This comes after the Thai elephant had been transported inside a steel crate onboard an Ilyushin Il-76 cargo plane.

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp; 
 
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Thailand got into a diplomatic spat with Sri Lanka over an elephant which the former country had gifted to the latter two decades ago. The issue is over the alleged mistreatment of the 29-year-old Thai elephant Sak Surin, also known as Muthu Raja.

Thailand got into a diplomatic spat with Sri Lanka over an elephant which the former country had gifted to the latter two decades ago. The issue is over the alleged mistreatment of the 29-year-old Thai elephant Sak Surin, also known as Muthu Raja. The elephant was airlifted from Sri Lanka and arrived in Thailand on Sunday (July 2) afternoon. The 29-year-old, 4,000-kg mammal arrived in Thailand just after 2:00 pm (local time) on Sunday. Muthu Raja elephant: What happened? The Thai royal family in 2001 gifted Sak Surin, who came to be known as Muthu Raja, to the Sri Lankan government. Sak Surin was gifted to a temple where it got the new name and was honoured in religious processions. However, an activist group Rally for Animal Rights and Environment (RARE) alleged that the mammal was being mistreated, tortured and neglected. Last year, it lobbied to ask Thai officials to intervene. Until then, Muthu Raja was staying at the Kande Viharaya temple. RARE claimed that the elephant had a stiff leg after being forced to work with a logging crew and that its wounds, some allegedly inflicted by its handler, had been long-neglected. “This is not the end, but the beginning of a new life for Muthu Raja,” said RARE founder, Panchali Panapitiya. The temple had agreed to transfer the elephant last November to Sri Lanka’s National Zoological Garden. Health concerns of Muthu Raja elephant Madusha Perera, a veterinary surgeon at the zoo told AFP, that Muthu Raja was in pain and covered in abscesses when it was rescued from the Buddhist temple last year. However, as of Friday, the abscesses which the elephant was suffering from have mostly healed. But due to the lack of facilities, Perera said, the zoo has not been able to fully treat its leg. “Once he gets back to Thailand, the experts there will attend to the conditions so that one day we will be able to see him walk the normal way,” said Perera. According to the visiting Thai veterinarian, the elephant’s treatment in Thailand could include hydrotherapy, laser treatment and acupuncture. Elephants are considered sacred in Sri Lanka and are protected by law. Therefore, RARE, expressing their unhappiness over Muthu Raja’s departure from the temple, said those responsible for neglecting the animal should be prosecuted. Panapitiya also said that they were unsuccessful in raising the issue of Muthu Raja’s health with the Sri Lankan government and turned to the Thai government. The group also said that the lack of timely intervention from Sri Lankan wildlife officials has brought “disrepute” to the country. Will this affect ties between the two countries? Muthu Raja left Colombo at 7:40 am (local time) on a flight which Thai officials said cost $700,000, however, did not mention which country is paying for it. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka-based wildlife environmentalist Jagath Gunawardana said Muthu Raja was a gift which has been taken back and it will have a negative effect on the ties between the countries. Last month, Sri Lanka Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena told the parliament that he personally conveyed the country’s regret to the Thai king over the elephant’s condition. Meanwhile, Thai environment minister Varawut Silpa-archa said that Thailand has stopped sending elephants abroad while the conditions of those already overseas are being checked by Bangkok’s diplomatic missions. Speaking about the elephant’s arrival, Varawut at the airport said, “He arrived in Chiang Mai perfectly.” He added, “He travelled five hours and nothing is wrong, his condition is normal.” This comes after the Thai elephant had been transported inside a steel crate onboard an Ilyushin Il-76 cargo plane. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Muthu Raja: Thailand takes back elephant it had gifted to Sri Lanka two decades ago. Here’s why

In Thailand, a court has acquitted five anti-government protesters who were charged with attempted violence against the nation's queen during a demonstration back in 2020.&nbsp;During the protests, a motorcade carrying Queen Suthida was allegedly obstructed by demonstrators in Bangkok, the capital city. However, in its ruling, the court determined that the defendants'&nbsp;actions were not aimed at impeding or causing harm to the queen or her motorcade.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened in 2020?</h2>

The incident as per Reuters took place during the height of pro-democracy protests in Thailand, when a motorcade carrying Queen Suthida was heckled by protesters.&nbsp;

The demonstrations, led by the youth, called for various reforms, including changes to the lese majeste law, which imposes severe penalties for perceived insults against the monarchy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/godfather-of-ai-calls-for-action-before-ai-is-smarter-than-us-warns-looming-takeover-isnt-science-fiction-609899">Godfather of AI calls for action 'before AI is smarter than us', warns looming takeover isn't science fiction</a>

Video footage and images&nbsp;of the October 2020 incident showed authorities pushing activists away from the convoy.&nbsp;

<img alt="Video footage and images of the October 2020 incident showed authorities pushing activists away from the convoy. " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c2d761e-c5ac-4b1a-98a0-70ca74ec8eb3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20%2849%29.png" />

The Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, however, in its latest statement said that the court recognised that police did not clear the way for the royal motorcade and that there was no prior announcement about the procession. They also pointed out the differing testimonies of witnesses and the lack of awareness among police in the area about the motorcade's route.

Reporting the acquittal, legal aid group, Thai Lawyers for Human Rights on Wednesday said,&nbsp;"The court saw that police did not clear the way for the royal motorcade...there was no announcement before the procession."

"Witness testimony was different and even police in the area did not know there would be a royal motorcade (passing through)," said the group.

<h2>Thailand's lese majeste law</h2>

In Thailand, many consider the monarchy "sacrosanct" and the royals are officially above politics and constitutionally enshrined to be treated with "revered worship".

Thailand's lese majeste law, which is among the world's strictest, imposes harsh penalties for any perceived insult to the monarchy.&nbsp;Offences under the law can carry a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-prosecutors-indict-five-for-queens-motorcade-blockage-374550">Thai prosecutors indict five for queen's motorcade blockage</a>

More serious offences under the law can result in life imprisonment or even the death penalty, reports Reuters.

Under the law, the five activists had been charged with committing or attempting violence against the queen, heir-apparent, or regent, an offence which carries a minimum sentence of 16 years in prison.&nbsp;

Talking to Reuters, one of the acquitted activists, 23-year-old Bunkueanun 'Francis' Paothong, expressed his relief and happiness, and said that they had been fighting and maintaining their innocence throughout the legal process. "I'm really glad...we've been fighting this and insisting on our innocence," he said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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In Thailand, a court has acquitted five anti-government protesters who were charged with attempted violence against the nation's queen during a demonstration back in 2020.

In Thailand, a court has acquitted five anti-government protesters who were charged with attempted violence against the nation's queen during a demonstration back in 2020. During the protests, a motorcade carrying Queen Suthida was allegedly obstructed by demonstrators in Bangkok, the capital city. However, in its ruling, the court determined that the defendants' actions were not aimed at impeding or causing harm to the queen or her motorcade. What happened in 2020? The incident as per Reuters took place during the height of pro-democracy protests in Thailand, when a motorcade carrying Queen Suthida was heckled by protesters. The demonstrations, led by the youth, called for various reforms, including changes to the lese majeste law, which imposes severe penalties for perceived insults against the monarchy. Also read | Godfather of AI calls for action 'before AI is smarter than us', warns looming takeover isn't science fiction Video footage and images of the October 2020 incident showed authorities pushing activists away from the convoy. The Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, however, in its latest statement said that the court recognised that police did not clear the way for the royal motorcade and that there was no prior announcement about the procession. They also pointed out the differing testimonies of witnesses and the lack of awareness among police in the area about the motorcade's route. Reporting the acquittal, legal aid group, Thai Lawyers for Human Rights on Wednesday said, "The court saw that police did not clear the way for the royal motorcade...there was no announcement before the procession." "Witness testimony was different and even police in the area did not know there would be a royal motorcade (passing through)," said the group. Thailand's lese majeste law In Thailand, many consider the monarchy "sacrosanct" and the royals are officially above politics and constitutionally enshrined to be treated with "revered worship". Thailand's lese majeste law, which is among the world's strictest, imposes harsh penalties for any perceived insult to the monarchy. Offences under the law can carry a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison. Also read | Thai prosecutors indict five for queen's motorcade blockage More serious offences under the law can result in life imprisonment or even the death penalty, reports Reuters. Under the law, the five activists had been charged with committing or attempting violence against the queen, heir-apparent, or regent, an offence which carries a minimum sentence of 16 years in prison. Talking to Reuters, one of the acquitted activists, 23-year-old Bunkueanun 'Francis' Paothong, expressed his relief and happiness, and said that they had been fighting and maintaining their innocence throughout the legal process. "I'm really glad...we've been fighting this and insisting on our innocence," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Thailand court acquits 5 pro-democracy activists of attempted violence against Queen Suthida

Thailand has cut electricity supplies to a Myanmar border township home to a billion-dollar Chinese-backed development that analysts say is a front for illegal gambling and online scam operations.

Thai authorities halted the power to Shwe Kokko in Myanmar's Karen state from midnight Monday-Tuesday, police chief of Maesod district Monsak Kaew-on told AFP.

The electricity was cut after a contract for the Thai side to supply the town ended without the Myanmar junta renewing it, he added.

Many areas along Myanmar's lawless eastern border are awash with Chinese investment, including in casinos, mines and logging.

The sprawling Shwe Kokko complex houses hotels and casinos targeting Chinese customers and is run by the Border Guard Force (BGF), a military-aligned ethnic militia.

A spokesman for the BGF could not be reached for comment by AFP.

Shwe Kokko's main backer is a Chinese national named She Zhijiang, according to a 2020 report by the United States Institute of Peace (USIP).

His Hong Kong-registered company Yatai has portrayed the $15 billion project as part of Beijing's "Belt and Road" infrastructure initiative, but the Chinese government has denied any link.

The project was characterised by land-grabbing and an influx of Chinese nationals fleeing a crackdown on organised crime in Cambodia, according to the USIP report. These groups later set up casinos and money-laundering institutions, it said.&nbsp;

In August last year Thai authorities detained She for allegedly running an illegal online casino.

He had been on the run from Chinese authorities since 2012, according to Chinese media.

Myanmar's junta has not commented on the cutting of electricity to the town.

Power outages are common in Myanmar due to a creaky and outdated electricity grid, with demand regularly outstripping supply during the sweltering summer months.

On May 31 the junta-appointed home minister met China's ambassador to Myanmar, state media reported.

They discussed "online fraud and gambling on the Myanmar-China and Myanmar-Thailand borders", and "enhancement of cooperation in the fight against transnational crimes", according to the Global New Light of Myanmar.

Karen state has been riven by conflict since Myanmar gained independence from Britain in 1948, with ethnic rebels fighting the military and each other. 
 
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Thailand has cut electricity supplies to a Myanmar border township home to a billion-dollar Chinese-backed development that analysts say is a front for illegal gambling and online scam operations.

Thailand has cut electricity supplies to a Myanmar border township home to a billion-dollar Chinese-backed development that analysts say is a front for illegal gambling and online scam operations. Thai authorities halted the power to Shwe Kokko in Myanmar's Karen state from midnight Monday-Tuesday, police chief of Maesod district Monsak Kaew-on told AFP. The electricity was cut after a contract for the Thai side to supply the town ended without the Myanmar junta renewing it, he added. Many areas along Myanmar's lawless eastern border are awash with Chinese investment, including in casinos, mines and logging. The sprawling Shwe Kokko complex houses hotels and casinos targeting Chinese customers and is run by the Border Guard Force (BGF), a military-aligned ethnic militia. A spokesman for the BGF could not be reached for comment by AFP. Shwe Kokko's main backer is a Chinese national named She Zhijiang, according to a 2020 report by the United States Institute of Peace (USIP). His Hong Kong-registered company Yatai has portrayed the $15 billion project as part of Beijing's "Belt and Road" infrastructure initiative, but the Chinese government has denied any link. The project was characterised by land-grabbing and an influx of Chinese nationals fleeing a crackdown on organised crime in Cambodia, according to the USIP report. These groups later set up casinos and money-laundering institutions, it said. In August last year Thai authorities detained She for allegedly running an illegal online casino. He had been on the run from Chinese authorities since 2012, according to Chinese media. Myanmar's junta has not commented on the cutting of electricity to the town. Power outages are common in Myanmar due to a creaky and outdated electricity grid, with demand regularly outstripping supply during the sweltering summer months. On May 31 the junta-appointed home minister met China's ambassador to Myanmar, state media reported. They discussed "online fraud and gambling on the Myanmar-China and Myanmar-Thailand borders", and "enhancement of cooperation in the fight against transnational crimes", according to the Global New Light of Myanmar. Karen state has been riven by conflict since Myanmar gained independence from Britain in 1948, with ethnic rebels fighting the military and each other. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Thailand cuts power to Chinese-backed den of illegal gambling, online scams in Myanmar

Thailand’s opposition and last week’s election winner, Move Forward Party and seven other parties on Monday (May 22) signed an ambitious and sweeping agreement on a platform which they hope would lead to the formation of a solid coalition government in July. The 23-point agreement was about drafting a new constitution, ending monopolies and allowing same-sex marriage but did not mention the country’s lese majeste laws.&nbsp;

The agreement also comes days after the leader of the progressive Move Forward Party Pita Limjaroenra&nbsp;said eight parties have agreed to form a coalition government with him as the prime minister. Move Forward and Pheu Thai parties dominated last week’s election defeating the military-backed rivals who have been in power for nearly a decade paving the way for a new era in Thai politics.

The pact was about “about shared values and commonalities and shared agenda and accountability,” said Pita. He also said that the negotiations were “fruitful, comprehensive, and a good start.” Notably, the signing took place a day prior to the news conference, exactly nine years after incumbent and then army chief Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha seized power following a coup.

“I’m prime minister-elect and there are several roadblocks as you understand it, but we have a strong team to manage it, and hopefully, to be able to minimise risk and minimise the destabilising factors that have affected the economy,” said Pita. Furthermore, he also said that while all parties can propose their own policies they must not violate this agreement through ministries.&nbsp;

While the agreement addresses multiple issues, it failed to include one of the most contentious issues in Thailand, which is the amendment of a harsh law against criticising the monarchy. As some parties have not agreed to amend the lese-majeste law which punishes perceived insults of the monarchy with up to 15 years in prison. Critics say that this law has been used to stifle free speech and dissent.&nbsp;

The proposal to amend the law&nbsp;was one of the most significant platforms that Move Forward ran on. This comes as many young people in Thailand wish to see democratic reform in the country.&nbsp;

Addressing the failure of including the amendment to the lese-majeste law, Pita said that he does not think his party to push for reform of lese majeste laws will put off the upper house. “All parties agree that every mission that the government will do must not affect the country’s status as a unitary state, the country’s status as a democracy under a constitutional monarchy framework, and the inviolable status of the monarch,” the agreement noted.&nbsp;

Another core policy of Move Forward which was a part of the pact was calling for an end to mandatory conscription and reform of the armed forces as well as the justice system and civil service. The pact also aims to move Thailand from military conscription to voluntary enlistment “except when the country is at war.”

Notably, Thailand’s military has staged 13 coups since the end of absolute monarchy nearly a century ago. As of now, Pita’s alliance comprises 313 seats, but it needs backing from 376 legislators in the 500-member parliament to vote for him in order to become the prime minister. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Thailand’s opposition and last week’s election winner, Move Forward Party and seven other parties on Monday (May 22) signed an ambitious and sweeping agreement on a platform which they hope would lead to the formation of a solid coalition government in July.

Thailand’s opposition and last week’s election winner, Move Forward Party and seven other parties on Monday (May 22) signed an ambitious and sweeping agreement on a platform which they hope would lead to the formation of a solid coalition government in July. The 23-point agreement was about drafting a new constitution, ending monopolies and allowing same-sex marriage but did not mention the country’s lese majeste laws. The agreement also comes days after the leader of the progressive Move Forward Party Pita Limjaroenra said eight parties have agreed to form a coalition government with him as the prime minister. Move Forward and Pheu Thai parties dominated last week’s election defeating the military-backed rivals who have been in power for nearly a decade paving the way for a new era in Thai politics. The pact was about “about shared values and commonalities and shared agenda and accountability,” said Pita. He also said that the negotiations were “fruitful, comprehensive, and a good start.” Notably, the signing took place a day prior to the news conference, exactly nine years after incumbent and then army chief Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha seized power following a coup. “I’m prime minister-elect and there are several roadblocks as you understand it, but we have a strong team to manage it, and hopefully, to be able to minimise risk and minimise the destabilising factors that have affected the economy,” said Pita. Furthermore, he also said that while all parties can propose their own policies they must not violate this agreement through ministries. While the agreement addresses multiple issues, it failed to include one of the most contentious issues in Thailand, which is the amendment of a harsh law against criticising the monarchy. As some parties have not agreed to amend the lese-majeste law which punishes perceived insults of the monarchy with up to 15 years in prison. Critics say that this law has been used to stifle free speech and dissent. The proposal to amend the law was one of the most significant platforms that Move Forward ran on. This comes as many young people in Thailand wish to see democratic reform in the country. Addressing the failure of including the amendment to the lese-majeste law, Pita said that he does not think his party to push for reform of lese majeste laws will put off the upper house. “All parties agree that every mission that the government will do must not affect the country’s status as a unitary state, the country’s status as a democracy under a constitutional monarchy framework, and the inviolable status of the monarch,” the agreement noted. Another core policy of Move Forward which was a part of the pact was calling for an end to mandatory conscription and reform of the armed forces as well as the justice system and civil service. The pact also aims to move Thailand from military conscription to voluntary enlistment “except when the country is at war.” Notably, Thailand’s military has staged 13 coups since the end of absolute monarchy nearly a century ago. As of now, Pita’s alliance comprises 313 seats, but it needs backing from 376 legislators in the 500-member parliament to vote for him in order to become the prime minister. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Thailand's Move Forward Party, seven allies sign pact aimed at reforms

The leader of the progressive Move Forward Party in Thailand, Pita Limjaroenrat, on Thursday (May 18) said after a meeting with the coalition partners in Bangkok that he was confident that he can garner enough support from rivals to back his coalition and form a stable government. This comes as the party defeated the military-backed rivals who have been in power for nearly a decade, over the weekend, paving the way for a new era in Thai politics.

So far, the reformist leader of the party said that eight parties have agreed to form a coalition government with him as the prime minister. The proposed coalition would have 313 seats in the House of Representatives marking a solid majority of the 376 votes needed in the 500-member parliament.&nbsp;

“There is a committee and negotiation team in place to find out what I further need, the seats I need, so there is stability and no loss of balance in governing,” said Pita at a press conference following the meeting. He added, “My coalition is taking shape. And we have a very clear roadmap from today and until the day I become PM.”

This comes amid fears that despite the overwhelming majority&nbsp;from the people, coalition’s supporters apprehend that his military-backed opponents in the Senate could block the new administration. “The 313 votes we have in the lower house are sufficient in a normal democratic system, and we do not need to seek any more partners,” said the potential PM.&nbsp;

Over the weekend, MFP got 13.5 million of the popular votes followed by Pheu Thai with 10.3 million and Prayut’s United Thai Nation party at third with 4.5 million. The MFP leader had said that he sought to build a six-party coalition including Pheu Thai, which said it was ready to join, following the elections.&nbsp; 
 
Thailand’s 250-member Senate was created and entirely appointed by the then-military government. Additionally, Thailand’s constitution drafted under military rule following the 2014 coup said that the lower house and the Senate must vote together to select a new prime minister. 
 
The Harvard-educated businessman also suffered a blow, earlier this week, when Bhumjaithai who managed to win 70 seats said it would not back a PM who supports abolishing or amending the strict lesse majeste laws against insulting the monarchy, which critics say have often been invoked to stifle free speech and punishes perceived insults by up to 15 years in prison.&nbsp;

“That is their matter. The eight parties have a position and clarity,” said Pita about Bhumjaithai’s declaration. The formation of the new government in Thailand is still far from being formed despite a decisive opposition victory.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The leader of the progressive Move Forward Party in Thailand, Pita Limjaroenrat, on Thursday (May 18) said after a meeting with the coalition partners in Bangkok that he was confident that he can garner enough support from rivals to back his coalition and form a stable government.

The leader of the progressive Move Forward Party in Thailand, Pita Limjaroenrat, on Thursday (May 18) said after a meeting with the coalition partners in Bangkok that he was confident that he can garner enough support from rivals to back his coalition and form a stable government. This comes as the party defeated the military-backed rivals who have been in power for nearly a decade, over the weekend, paving the way for a new era in Thai politics. So far, the reformist leader of the party said that eight parties have agreed to form a coalition government with him as the prime minister. The proposed coalition would have 313 seats in the House of Representatives marking a solid majority of the 376 votes needed in the 500-member parliament. “There is a committee and negotiation team in place to find out what I further need, the seats I need, so there is stability and no loss of balance in governing,” said Pita at a press conference following the meeting. He added, “My coalition is taking shape. And we have a very clear roadmap from today and until the day I become PM.” This comes amid fears that despite the overwhelming majority from the people, coalition’s supporters apprehend that his military-backed opponents in the Senate could block the new administration. “The 313 votes we have in the lower house are sufficient in a normal democratic system, and we do not need to seek any more partners,” said the potential PM. Over the weekend, MFP got 13.5 million of the popular votes followed by Pheu Thai with 10.3 million and Prayut’s United Thai Nation party at third with 4.5 million. The MFP leader had said that he sought to build a six-party coalition including Pheu Thai, which said it was ready to join, following the elections. Thailand’s 250-member Senate was created and entirely appointed by the then-military government. Additionally, Thailand’s constitution drafted under military rule following the 2014 coup said that the lower house and the Senate must vote together to select a new prime minister. The Harvard-educated businessman also suffered a blow, earlier this week, when Bhumjaithai who managed to win 70 seats said it would not back a PM who supports abolishing or amending the strict lesse majeste laws against insulting the monarchy, which critics say have often been invoked to stifle free speech and punishes perceived insults by up to 15 years in prison. “That is their matter. The eight parties have a position and clarity,” said Pita about Bhumjaithai’s declaration. The formation of the new government in Thailand is still far from being formed despite a decisive opposition victory. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Thailand election winner Pita Limjaroenrat confident about forming a stable government

The voters in Thailand delivered a surprising and stunning verdict in favour of Pita Limjaroenrat's Move Forward party on Sunday, in what many call a historic poll.

The 42-year-old Harvard graduate, corporate titan and unlikely pro-democracy champion, Limjaroenrat left the Thai establishment in shock with a grassroot campaign pushing for royal reform that saw him emerge as a frontrunner candidate to be Thailand's next prime minister.

His party witnessed a record turnout with 14.1 million people supporting him, grabbing the majority in the historic elections.

On Monday, in his victory speech, he vowed to become the next prime minister of Thailand and also said that his party is now ready to form a government.

"Today is a new day, and hopefully it is full of sunshine and hope," he said.

He took to Twitter and said, “We have the same dream, the same hopes, and we believe that Thailand that we love can be better. Change is possible If we start doing it from today... Our dreams and hopes are quite simple and straightforward.”

He continued: “Whether you agree or disagree with me, I will be your prime minister. Whether you voted for me or not, I will serve you.”

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พี่น้องประชาชนที่รัก วันนี้ผม พิธา ลิ้มเจริญรัตน์ ‘ชัด’ และ ‘พร้อม’ แล้วที่จะเป็นนายกรัฐมนตรีคนที่ 30 ของประเทศไทย 
 
เรามีความฝัน ความหวัง แบบเดียวกัน และเราเชื่อเหมือนกันว่า ประเทศไทยที่เรารักจะดีกว่านี้ได้ ความเปลี่ยนแปลงเป็นไปได้ ถ้าเราเริ่มต้นลงมือทำตั้งแต่วันนี้... ความฝัน… <a href="https://t.co/c66AMdPhpx">pic.twitter.com/c66AMdPhpx</a>
— Pita Limjaroenrat (@Pita_MFP) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pita_MFP/status/1657829220062744576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Pita Limjaroenrat's first appearance in Thailand's political scene</h2>

Limjaroenrat began his political career in 2019 after being elected to parliament as a member of the newly formed progressive Future Forward Party.

Founded by billionaire and resolute critic of the army, Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, the party performed extremely well in the 2019 elections, drawing the third-largest share of voters.&nbsp;

However, after facing a storm of legal challenges that as per critics were politically instigated, Future Forward was disbanded and its leaders were banned from politics which lead to demonstrations by young people in the country demanding new polls and amendments to the constitution.

Limjaroenrat gained popularity with his party's promises to smash political influence and reform laws relating to the monarchy.

On Friday, in his last rally before the elections, he told the supporters, "We will together rewrite Thai political history."

<h2>Limjaroenrat's life before entering politics</h2>

Educated in New Zealand and the United States, Pita studied at Harvard University on an international scholarship before going on to become an entrepreneur.

He lost his father at the age of 25 and following his demise, he returned home to run his family business which was heavily in debt.&nbsp;

He later became the executive director of the transport and delivery app Grab Thailand.

Pita, father to a seven-year-old daughter, got married to Thai TV actress Chutima Teepanat in the year 2012. The marriage broke down in 2019.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The voters in Thailand delivered a surprising and stunning verdict in favour of Pita Limjaroenrat's Move Forward party on Sunday, in what many call a historic poll.

The voters in Thailand delivered a surprising and stunning verdict in favour of Pita Limjaroenrat's Move Forward party on Sunday, in what many call a historic poll. The 42-year-old Harvard graduate, corporate titan and unlikely pro-democracy champion, Limjaroenrat left the Thai establishment in shock with a grassroot campaign pushing for royal reform that saw him emerge as a frontrunner candidate to be Thailand's next prime minister. His party witnessed a record turnout with 14.1 million people supporting him, grabbing the majority in the historic elections. On Monday, in his victory speech, he vowed to become the next prime minister of Thailand and also said that his party is now ready to form a government. "Today is a new day, and hopefully it is full of sunshine and hope," he said. He took to Twitter and said, “We have the same dream, the same hopes, and we believe that Thailand that we love can be better. Change is possible If we start doing it from today... Our dreams and hopes are quite simple and straightforward.” He continued: “Whether you agree or disagree with me, I will be your prime minister. Whether you voted for me or not, I will serve you.” พี่น้องประชาชนที่รัก วันนี้ผม พิธา ลิ้มเจริญรัตน์ ‘ชัด’ และ ‘พร้อม’ แล้วที่จะเป็นนายกรัฐมนตรีคนที่ 30 ของประเทศไทย เรามีความฝัน ความหวัง แบบเดียวกัน และเราเชื่อเหมือนกันว่า ประเทศไทยที่เรารักจะดีกว่านี้ได้ ความเปลี่ยนแปลงเป็นไปได้ ถ้าเราเริ่มต้นลงมือทำตั้งแต่วันนี้... ความฝัน… pic.twitter.com/c66AMdPhpx — Pita Limjaroenrat (@Pita_MFP) May 14, 2023 × Pita Limjaroenrat's first appearance in Thailand's political scene Limjaroenrat began his political career in 2019 after being elected to parliament as a member of the newly formed progressive Future Forward Party. Founded by billionaire and resolute critic of the army, Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, the party performed extremely well in the 2019 elections, drawing the third-largest share of voters. However, after facing a storm of legal challenges that as per critics were politically instigated, Future Forward was disbanded and its leaders were banned from politics which lead to demonstrations by young people in the country demanding new polls and amendments to the constitution. Limjaroenrat gained popularity with his party's promises to smash political influence and reform laws relating to the monarchy. On Friday, in his last rally before the elections, he told the supporters, "We will together rewrite Thai political history." Limjaroenrat's life before entering politics Educated in New Zealand and the United States, Pita studied at Harvard University on an international scholarship before going on to become an entrepreneur. He lost his father at the age of 25 and following his demise, he returned home to run his family business which was heavily in debt. He later became the executive director of the transport and delivery app Grab Thailand. Pita, father to a seven-year-old daughter, got married to Thai TV actress Chutima Teepanat in the year 2012. The marriage broke down in 2019. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Who is Pita Limjaroenrat? 42-year-old pro-democracy champion behind Thailand's political revolution

Thailand’s two main opposition parties agreed on Monday (May 15) to form a ruling coalition after winning the elections over the weekend against the military-backed rivals who have been in power for nearly a decade, paving the way for a new era in Thai politics. This comes as Thailand's opposition Pheu Thai said it was willing to join a coalition government led by Move Forward Party.&nbsp;

As 99 per cent of votes were counted, the election results showed the liberal Move Forward party (MFP) and the populist Pheu Thai Party well ahead of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha’s United Thai Nation party. Voters in Thailand turned out in record numbers to deliver a brutal verdict on former coup leader and incumbent Prime Minister Chan-O-Cha.&nbsp;

According to the country’s Election Commission, MFP got 13.5 million of the popular votes followed by Pheu Thai with 10.3 million and Prayut’s United Thai Nation party at third with 4.5 million. MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat had said that he sought to build a six-party coalition including Pheu Thai, which said it was ready to join.&nbsp;

The Move Forward’s 42-year-old leader’s coalition would command 309 seats, still short of the 376 seats needed to ensure he was elected as prime minister. “I am Pita Limjaroenrat, the next prime minister of Thailand,” he said while talking to the press outside MFP headquarters in Bangkok. He added, “We are ready to form the government” and vowed to be a “prime minister for all”.&nbsp;

MFP and Pheu Thai are expected to take 292 out of 500 seats in the lower house, with the two main army-allied parties mustering just 76 seats in total. However, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Pheu Thai's lead prime minister candidate, said the two sides have not yet started negotiating the details of a coalition.

This election was the first one since the 2020 protests that demanded curbs on the power as well as expenditure of Thailand’s monarchy. The newest force in Thai politics, MFP channelled the energy of youth-led pro-democracy protests in 2020 and has vowed to break up monopolies as a part of its agenda.&nbsp;

Pita has also said that his party would move to amend strict lesse majeste laws against insulting the monarchy which critics say have often been invoked to stifle free speech and punishes perceived insults by up to 15 years in prison.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
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Thailand’s two main opposition parties agreed on Monday (May 15) to form a ruling coalition after winning the elections over the weekend against the military-backed rivals who have been in power for nearly a decade, paving the way for a new era in Thai politics.

Thailand’s two main opposition parties agreed on Monday (May 15) to form a ruling coalition after winning the elections over the weekend against the military-backed rivals who have been in power for nearly a decade, paving the way for a new era in Thai politics. This comes as Thailand's opposition Pheu Thai said it was willing to join a coalition government led by Move Forward Party. As 99 per cent of votes were counted, the election results showed the liberal Move Forward party (MFP) and the populist Pheu Thai Party well ahead of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha’s United Thai Nation party. Voters in Thailand turned out in record numbers to deliver a brutal verdict on former coup leader and incumbent Prime Minister Chan-O-Cha. According to the country’s Election Commission, MFP got 13.5 million of the popular votes followed by Pheu Thai with 10.3 million and Prayut’s United Thai Nation party at third with 4.5 million. MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat had said that he sought to build a six-party coalition including Pheu Thai, which said it was ready to join. The Move Forward’s 42-year-old leader’s coalition would command 309 seats, still short of the 376 seats needed to ensure he was elected as prime minister. “I am Pita Limjaroenrat, the next prime minister of Thailand,” he said while talking to the press outside MFP headquarters in Bangkok. He added, “We are ready to form the government” and vowed to be a “prime minister for all”. MFP and Pheu Thai are expected to take 292 out of 500 seats in the lower house, with the two main army-allied parties mustering just 76 seats in total. However, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Pheu Thai's lead prime minister candidate, said the two sides have not yet started negotiating the details of a coalition. This election was the first one since the 2020 protests that demanded curbs on the power as well as expenditure of Thailand’s monarchy. The newest force in Thai politics, MFP channelled the energy of youth-led pro-democracy protests in 2020 and has vowed to break up monopolies as a part of its agenda. Pita has also said that his party would move to amend strict lesse majeste laws against insulting the monarchy which critics say have often been invoked to stifle free speech and punishes perceived insults by up to 15 years in prison. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Thailand poll winner Move Forward, opposition party agree to form coalition

Chikoti Praveen, an infamous name in India due to his activities in casinos and gambling, has been caught in a major raid by police in Thailand. He was one among at least 83 Indian tourists caught during the raid. The arrest took place in early hours of Monday (May 1) at Asia Pattaya Hotel in Bang Lamung District. Chikoti Praveen had raked in more than 12 million dollars from a makeshift casino set up in the hotel's convention centre.

Chikoti is a notorious organiser of gambling ventures which straddle Big Daddy in Goa to casinos in Nepal. He had flown in gamblers from southern Indian city of Hyderabad to his makeshift casino in the Thai hotel.

Thai police chief Pol Maj-Gen Kampol Leelaprahphporn was quoted in media reports as saying that a logbook of gambling credits worth more than 12 million dollars was seized from the hotel

As reported in the media, Thai police seized gambling chips worth more than 2 million USD. They also foud 25 sets of cards, three blackjack tables, four baccarat tables, 92 mobile phones, eight CCTV cameras, three computers and thousands of Indian rupees.

“We received a tip-off that several tourists from India had checked into the hotel on Saturday and were scheduled to check out on Monday. We were also told that the convention hall of the hotel was turned into a makeshift casino for the tourists. Sitranan Kaewlor, 32, confessed that she was in charge of the accommodation and gambling venue. She said that the Indian tourists were charged 50,000 Baht each and that a room for gambling was rented for 1,20,000 Baht, which was open from 1 p.m. to 6 a.m and hotel staff were not allowed to enter the room,” said Thai police chief as quoted by The Hindu.

Chikoti Praveen is already a marked man by probe agencies in India. He is under investigation by Enforcement Directorate. He faces allegations of violation of foreign exchange rules.

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Chikoti Praveen, an infamous name in India due to his activities in casinos and gambling, has been caught in a major raid by police in Thailand. He was one among at least 83 Indian tourists caught during the raid.

Chikoti Praveen, an infamous name in India due to his activities in casinos and gambling, has been caught in a major raid by police in Thailand. He was one among at least 83 Indian tourists caught during the raid. The arrest took place in early hours of Monday (May 1) at Asia Pattaya Hotel in Bang Lamung District. Chikoti Praveen had raked in more than 12 million dollars from a makeshift casino set up in the hotel's convention centre. Chikoti is a notorious organiser of gambling ventures which straddle Big Daddy in Goa to casinos in Nepal. He had flown in gamblers from southern Indian city of Hyderabad to his makeshift casino in the Thai hotel. Thai police chief Pol Maj-Gen Kampol Leelaprahphporn was quoted in media reports as saying that a logbook of gambling credits worth more than 12 million dollars was seized from the hotel As reported in the media, Thai police seized gambling chips worth more than 2 million USD. They also foud 25 sets of cards, three blackjack tables, four baccarat tables, 92 mobile phones, eight CCTV cameras, three computers and thousands of Indian rupees. “We received a tip-off that several tourists from India had checked into the hotel on Saturday and were scheduled to check out on Monday. We were also told that the convention hall of the hotel was turned into a makeshift casino for the tourists. Sitranan Kaewlor, 32, confessed that she was in charge of the accommodation and gambling venue. She said that the Indian tourists were charged 50,000 Baht each and that a room for gambling was rented for 1,20,000 Baht, which was open from 1 p.m. to 6 a.m and hotel staff were not allowed to enter the room,” said Thai police chief as quoted by The Hindu. Chikoti Praveen is already a marked man by probe agencies in India. He is under investigation by Enforcement Directorate. He faces allegations of violation of foreign exchange rules. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Thailand: Indian gambling kingpin Chikoti Praveen in net after bust in Pattaya

Amid a surge in cases globally, the first death from COVID-19's new variant, Arcturus, has been reported in Thailand, the health officials informed on Friday. An unnamed elderly man became the victim of the virus strain which is thought to be around 1.

Amid a surge in cases globally, the first death from COVID-19's new variant, Arcturus, has been reported in Thailand, the health officials informed on Friday. An unnamed elderly man became the victim of the virus strain which is thought to be around 1.2 times more infectious than the last major sub-variant. Dr Supakit Sirilak, director-general of the Medical Sciences Department stated that the deceased was a foreigner who had underlying health conditions as well. "The dead person was an elderly foreigner with underlying health conditions. His death, therefore, may not directly reflect the severity of this subvariant but rather its impact on other risk factors," said Dr Sirilak. Between April 9 and 15, the number of patients hospitalised in the country has seen an uptick of almost 2.5 times, compared to the previous week. Subsequently, Thai health officials have issued a warning regarding the new subvariant and urged the public to err on the side of caution and practice Covid-appropriate behaviour. WATCH | India's new COVID-19 cases jump 30% to 10,158 × Arcturus and its brief history Notably, India was the first country to detect Arcturus. The highly contagious Covid strain has already been discovered in at least 24 countries. According to experts, the variant is a matter of discussion but not a cause of concern. “It’s been in circulation for a few months. We haven’t seen a change in severity in individuals or in populations, but that’s why we have these systems in place. It has one additional mutation in the spike protein, which, in lab studies, shows increased infectivity as well as potential increased pathogenicity," Dr Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHO’s technical lead for Covid said last month. ALSO READ | New COVID-19 sub-variant 'Arcturus' detected in at least 24 countries; Here's all you need to know about it In the US, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has informed that the new strain is responsible for almost seven per cent of the coronavirus cases, coming only behind the Omicron variant. According to the experts, the symptoms caused by Arcturus are nearly identical to the ones caused by the prior variants. However, the virus tends to produce conjunctivitis (inflammation of the outside of the eye) in the contracted person which is being classed as one of the distinguishing symptoms. How to protect yourself from Arcturus? Nothing out of the ordinary needs to be done to protect oneself from the new strain. Some of the most important measures include staying updated with vaccinations and booster doses, wearing a mask, social distancing, washing your hands, and attempting to spend time outdoors or in well-ventilated areas. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

First death from new COVID-19 subvariant 'Arcturus' detected in Thailand

In what comes as a major milestone in wildlife conservation efforts, a zoo in Thailand has been able to successfully breed a red-headed vulture for the first time in over 30 years. The&nbsp;Zoological Park Organization (ZPO) of&nbsp;Thailand achieved the rare feat which has only been repeated once previously.&nbsp;

The Zoo had been attempting to breed the endangered vulture species, also known as the Asian king vulture&nbsp;for over 18 years. The Zoo officials said they were hoping that the caged vultures may mate naturally without any help. However, upon receiving no eggs over the years, the authorities realised that it was time to take action.&nbsp;

“After years of attempts, the emergence of this red-headed vulture has allowed scientists to discover how to breed them in the future. They will know how they should set up the environment and the atmosphere for the vulture,"&nbsp;Attapon Srihayrun, director general of ZPO&nbsp; was quoted as saying by Reuters.&nbsp;

“Once we have the first newborn Red-headed&nbsp;Vulture, we will have the second, third, fourth and so on. Then, when we have an ample population, we will release them back to nature."

The emergence of the&nbsp;Red-headed&nbsp;Vulture which had gone extinct in 1992 and is listed&nbsp;critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature is a massive feat and could help revive their numbers yet again.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/poisoned-carcasses-killing-off-kenyas-vultures-336024">WATCH |&nbsp;Poisoned carcasses killing off Kenya's vultures</a>

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<h2>Vultures and cause of their decline&nbsp;</h2>

The bird weighs anywhere around 3.5 to 6.3 kg with the wingspan being 1.99 to 2.6 metres wide. The adult male red-headed vultures have white (or pale) eyes while adult females have dark eyes.&nbsp;

Akin to most vultures, this breed also does not like to make a lot of vocalisations. Instead, it prefers to soar high up in the sky in silence and forage for food.&nbsp;

Throughout South Asia, vultures once roamed the skies in ample numbers, However, since the mid-90s and early 2000s, there has been a steep decline in their numbers.&nbsp;

The scientists had a tough time gauging what could be the cause for the decline. As it turns out, the use of a medicine&nbsp;called&nbsp;diclofenac that most people give to their livestock was causing the death of vultures, including the majestic&nbsp;Asian king vulture.&nbsp;

After the&nbsp;domestic animals died and vultures fed on them,&nbsp;diclofenac got into their system. It acted&nbsp;as&nbsp;a poison and made&nbsp;them sick with most vultures dying due to renal failure. Since then, there has been an active campaign to avoid the use of&nbsp;diclofenac to treat livestock across the region.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-in-a-first-vulture-rewilded-after-five-years-of-captive-care-531503">ALSO READ |&nbsp;India: In a first, vulture rewilded after five years of captive care</a>

Vultures are natural scavengers and have an active role to play in the ecology of any place. Their absence can have serious ramifications. Hence, the hatching of the baby vulture in Thailand is being seen as a major breakthrough.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In what comes as a major milestone in wildlife conservation efforts, a zoo in Thailand has been able to successfully breed a red-headed vulture for the first time in over 30 years.

In what comes as a major milestone in wildlife conservation efforts, a zoo in Thailand has been able to successfully breed a red-headed vulture for the first time in over 30 years. The Zoological Park Organization (ZPO) of Thailand achieved the rare feat which has only been repeated once previously. The Zoo had been attempting to breed the endangered vulture species, also known as the Asian king vulture for over 18 years. The Zoo officials said they were hoping that the caged vultures may mate naturally without any help. However, upon receiving no eggs over the years, the authorities realised that it was time to take action. “After years of attempts, the emergence of this red-headed vulture has allowed scientists to discover how to breed them in the future. They will know how they should set up the environment and the atmosphere for the vulture," Attapon Srihayrun, director general of ZPO was quoted as saying by Reuters. “Once we have the first newborn Red-headed Vulture, we will have the second, third, fourth and so on. Then, when we have an ample population, we will release them back to nature." The emergence of the Red-headed Vulture which had gone extinct in 1992 and is listed critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature is a massive feat and could help revive their numbers yet again. WATCH | Poisoned carcasses killing off Kenya's vultures × Vultures and cause of their decline The bird weighs anywhere around 3.5 to 6.3 kg with the wingspan being 1.99 to 2.6 metres wide. The adult male red-headed vultures have white (or pale) eyes while adult females have dark eyes. Akin to most vultures, this breed also does not like to make a lot of vocalisations. Instead, it prefers to soar high up in the sky in silence and forage for food. Throughout South Asia, vultures once roamed the skies in ample numbers, However, since the mid-90s and early 2000s, there has been a steep decline in their numbers. The scientists had a tough time gauging what could be the cause for the decline. As it turns out, the use of a medicine called diclofenac that most people give to their livestock was causing the death of vultures, including the majestic Asian king vulture. After the domestic animals died and vultures fed on them, diclofenac got into their system. It acted as a poison and made them sick with most vultures dying due to renal failure. Since then, there has been an active campaign to avoid the use of diclofenac to treat livestock across the region. ALSO READ | India: In a first, vulture rewilded after five years of captive care Vultures are natural scavengers and have an active role to play in the ecology of any place. Their absence can have serious ramifications. Hence, the hatching of the baby vulture in Thailand is being seen as a major breakthrough. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Thailand breeds first red-headed vulture successfully in 30 years

This week, at least 5,000 people were forced to flee from Myanmar, amid fierce fighting between the country’s military and armed rebels, to Thailand, as per media reports citing Thai officials, on Thursday (April 6). This comes after clashes broke out when rebels in the southern Karen state attacked a military border guard outpost, reported BBC Burmese and Thailand’s Khaosod English newspaper.&nbsp;

The Karen state outpost town of Myawaddy borders Thailand’s Tak province and has witnessed intense fighting. “Around 3,998 people have fled into Thailand’s temporary shelter” across 10 areas, Tak provincial officials said in a statement. Myanmar has been facing turmoil since the ouster of Aung San Suu Kyi’s elected government which was toppled by the army in a coup in February 2021.

“Many people crossed the border since yesterday and some are still also waiting on the Myanmar side to cross. People don't have enough drinking water or any toilets for now,” a charity worker who requested anonymity told Reuters. Meanwhile, the officials in Tak have said local armed forces, police, and the civil administration are closely monitoring the situation and were “ready to send patrol flights if Thai airspace is violated”.

It added, “The Thai-Myanmar border command centre in Tak province is working together with relevant agencies to provide safety and give assistance in accordance to humanitarian principles to all those who fled the fighting in Myanmar.”&nbsp;

Reports suggest that the clashes between long-established ethnic rebel groups, as well as dozens of ‘People's Defence Forces’ militias who have opposed the coup, frequently clash with the military forcing civilians to flee across the nearby Thai border.

Padoh Saw Thamain Tun, a leader from the anti-junta Karen National Army (KNLA) confirmed the clashes in the area and said around “2,000 people were displaced, crossed the border, come to Thai side,” reported AFP. The ongoing fighting has raged across the country, particularly in the rural areas. Meanwhile, rights groups have accused the military of targeting civilians in air strikes and ground operations.&nbsp;

According to the local group, Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, Myanmar’s military has used lethal force against its opponents, killing some 3,212 people and jailing over 17,000. On the other hand, the military claims it is fighting “terrorists” and denies targeting civilians while blaming anti-coup fighters for the deaths of civilians.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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This week, at least 5,000 people were forced to flee from Myanmar, amid fierce fighting between the country’s military and armed rebels, to Thailand, as per media reports citing Thai officials, on Thursday (April 6).

This week, at least 5,000 people were forced to flee from Myanmar, amid fierce fighting between the country’s military and armed rebels, to Thailand, as per media reports citing Thai officials, on Thursday (April 6). This comes after clashes broke out when rebels in the southern Karen state attacked a military border guard outpost, reported BBC Burmese and Thailand’s Khaosod English newspaper. The Karen state outpost town of Myawaddy borders Thailand’s Tak province and has witnessed intense fighting. “Around 3,998 people have fled into Thailand’s temporary shelter” across 10 areas, Tak provincial officials said in a statement. Myanmar has been facing turmoil since the ouster of Aung San Suu Kyi’s elected government which was toppled by the army in a coup in February 2021. “Many people crossed the border since yesterday and some are still also waiting on the Myanmar side to cross. People don't have enough drinking water or any toilets for now,” a charity worker who requested anonymity told Reuters. Meanwhile, the officials in Tak have said local armed forces, police, and the civil administration are closely monitoring the situation and were “ready to send patrol flights if Thai airspace is violated”. It added, “The Thai-Myanmar border command centre in Tak province is working together with relevant agencies to provide safety and give assistance in accordance to humanitarian principles to all those who fled the fighting in Myanmar.” Reports suggest that the clashes between long-established ethnic rebel groups, as well as dozens of ‘People's Defence Forces’ militias who have opposed the coup, frequently clash with the military forcing civilians to flee across the nearby Thai border. Padoh Saw Thamain Tun, a leader from the anti-junta Karen National Army (KNLA) confirmed the clashes in the area and said around “2,000 people were displaced, crossed the border, come to Thai side,” reported AFP. The ongoing fighting has raged across the country, particularly in the rural areas. Meanwhile, rights groups have accused the military of targeting civilians in air strikes and ground operations. According to the local group, Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, Myanmar’s military has used lethal force against its opponents, killing some 3,212 people and jailing over 17,000. On the other hand, the military claims it is fighting “terrorists” and denies targeting civilians while blaming anti-coup fighters for the deaths of civilians. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Thousands from Myanmar flee to Thailand amid fighting between military, rebels

Thailand's "shopping mall gorilla", who has remained in the cage for the last 30 years, is not likely to get freedom even after a row recently re-ignited over her captivity.&nbsp;

Around the world, activists have been campaigning for the mammal to be moved from Pata Zoo, which is on top of a Bangkok mall. The campaign also received the support of singer Cher and actor Gillian Anderson in 2020.

However, the family which owns the gorilla "Bua Noi", meaning "little lotus", has resisted the pressure from the government and people to relinquish the critically endangered mammal.&nbsp;

For more than three decades, the gorilla has been living at Pata but her case again made headlines this month after a reward of 100,000 baht ($2,800) was offered by the zoo for information which will lead to the arrest of anyone who graffitied "Free Bua Noi!" on one of the walls of the mall.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-thailand-celebrates-national-elephant-day-honours-them-as-part-of-countrys-heritage-571717">In Pics | Thailand celebrates National Elephant Day honours them as part of country's heritage</a>

The news comes at a time when tourists are being welcomed back by Thailand after the pandemic, many drawn to the wildlife of the kingdom. &nbsp;

New environmental legislation, which generally targets preventing native-born animals' abuse, has been passed by the authorities and privately owned zoos like Pata and non-indigenous creatures like Bua Noi are not necessarily covered under these laws.

"(Pata) can still open because the wild animal conservation and protection act zoo section has not been enforced yet," said Padej Laithong, director of the national wildlife conservation office.&nbsp;

The officials monitor animal welfare regulations at only eight state-linked zoos, and with growing private facilities, worries have increased about them fulfilling necessary licensing requirements.

WATCH | Thailand: Kingdom hits 10 million visitors in 2022 as tourism recovers

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Pata had applied for an extension of licence before its expiry, said Padej, adding that his main concern was about the fire safety of the building and not the welfare of animals.&nbsp;

"All of these details must be answered before the license can be renewed, suspended or revoked," he stated.&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)

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Thailand's "shopping mall gorilla", who has remained in the cage for the last 30 years, is not likely to get freedom even after a row recently re-ignited over her captivity.

Thailand's "shopping mall gorilla", who has remained in the cage for the last 30 years, is not likely to get freedom even after a row recently re-ignited over her captivity. Around the world, activists have been campaigning for the mammal to be moved from Pata Zoo, which is on top of a Bangkok mall. The campaign also received the support of singer Cher and actor Gillian Anderson in 2020. However, the family which owns the gorilla "Bua Noi", meaning "little lotus", has resisted the pressure from the government and people to relinquish the critically endangered mammal. For more than three decades, the gorilla has been living at Pata but her case again made headlines this month after a reward of 100,000 baht ($2,800) was offered by the zoo for information which will lead to the arrest of anyone who graffitied "Free Bua Noi!" on one of the walls of the mall. ALSO READ | In Pics | Thailand celebrates National Elephant Day honours them as part of country's heritage The news comes at a time when tourists are being welcomed back by Thailand after the pandemic, many drawn to the wildlife of the kingdom. New environmental legislation, which generally targets preventing native-born animals' abuse, has been passed by the authorities and privately owned zoos like Pata and non-indigenous creatures like Bua Noi are not necessarily covered under these laws. "(Pata) can still open because the wild animal conservation and protection act zoo section has not been enforced yet," said Padej Laithong, director of the national wildlife conservation office. The officials monitor animal welfare regulations at only eight state-linked zoos, and with growing private facilities, worries have increased about them fulfilling necessary licensing requirements. WATCH | Thailand: Kingdom hits 10 million visitors in 2022 as tourism recovers Pata had applied for an extension of licence before its expiry, said Padej, adding that his main concern was about the fire safety of the building and not the welfare of animals. "All of these details must be answered before the license can be renewed, suspended or revoked," he stated. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Bangkok's 'mall gorilla' not likely to get freedom in near future

Thailand parliament was dissolved on Monday (March 20), paving the way for an election sometime in May. The election is set to pit the billionaire Shinawatra family which has dominated the elections for over two decades against the military-linked candidates. This comes after King Maha Vajiralongkorn endorsed a decree to dissolve the parliament, as per an announcement in the Royal Gazette.&nbsp;

Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, is expected to be her party Pheu Thai’s candidate. She had previously said that she is campaigning to win by a landslide. According to the announcement in the Royal Gazette, “This is a return of political decision-making power to the people swiftly to continue democratic government with the King as head of state.”&nbsp;

An election must be held within 45 to 60 days after the parliament’s dissolution. While no official date for the election has been announced, a report by Reuters citing two sources said the voting will take place on May 14.

The election will also see the participation of incumbent Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha. The 68-year-old came to power in 2014 following a coup and will run in the upcoming election under a new party named United Thai Nation.&nbsp;

According to opinion surveys, Prayuth is trailing behind Paetongtarn after her support jumped by 10 points to 38.2 per cent over the weekend, reported Reuters. Parties associated with the prominent Shinavatra family have won the most seats in every election in Thailand since 2001. However, their elected leaders have also been repeatedly ousted.&nbsp;

Paetongtarn’s aunt, Yingluck was forced out of office in 2014 following a court ruling, while Paetongtarn’s father Thaksin was ousted by a military coup in 2006; both currently live in exile. While the Shinawatra family, which has controlled three governments previously, is loathed by the royalist military establishment, they are popular among Thailand’s working class and rural areas of the north and north-east.

The election in May also comes after mass protests led by the country’s youth which challenged&nbsp;Thailand’s establishment amid calls for curbing the power of the country’s monarchy and re-writing the military-backed constitution. Months later when the protests halted the government began filing cases against the protesters where nearly 2,000 people including 284 people under the age of 18 were charged.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Thailand parliament was dissolved on Monday (March 20), paving the way for an election sometime in May. The election is set to pit the billionaire Shinawatra family which has dominated the elections for over two decades against the military-linked candidates.

Thailand parliament was dissolved on Monday (March 20), paving the way for an election sometime in May. The election is set to pit the billionaire Shinawatra family which has dominated the elections for over two decades against the military-linked candidates. This comes after King Maha Vajiralongkorn endorsed a decree to dissolve the parliament, as per an announcement in the Royal Gazette. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, is expected to be her party Pheu Thai’s candidate. She had previously said that she is campaigning to win by a landslide. According to the announcement in the Royal Gazette, “This is a return of political decision-making power to the people swiftly to continue democratic government with the King as head of state.” An election must be held within 45 to 60 days after the parliament’s dissolution. While no official date for the election has been announced, a report by Reuters citing two sources said the voting will take place on May 14. The election will also see the participation of incumbent Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha. The 68-year-old came to power in 2014 following a coup and will run in the upcoming election under a new party named United Thai Nation. According to opinion surveys, Prayuth is trailing behind Paetongtarn after her support jumped by 10 points to 38.2 per cent over the weekend, reported Reuters. Parties associated with the prominent Shinavatra family have won the most seats in every election in Thailand since 2001. However, their elected leaders have also been repeatedly ousted. Paetongtarn’s aunt, Yingluck was forced out of office in 2014 following a court ruling, while Paetongtarn’s father Thaksin was ousted by a military coup in 2006; both currently live in exile. While the Shinawatra family, which has controlled three governments previously, is loathed by the royalist military establishment, they are popular among Thailand’s working class and rural areas of the north and north-east. The election in May also comes after mass protests led by the country’s youth which challenged Thailand’s establishment amid calls for curbing the power of the country’s monarchy and re-writing the military-backed constitution. Months later when the protests halted the government began filing cases against the protesters where nearly 2,000 people including 284 people under the age of 18 were charged. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Thailand: Paetongtarn Shinawatra leads opinion polls ahead of upcoming elections after parliament dissolution

Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha on Friday ordered dissolution of the parliament ahead of the all-important general election as the military leader seeks to extend his second term spanning eight years.

The PM issued a decree in this regard and it will be next sent to Thailand’s monarch&nbsp;for approval. It would take effect once it is published in the Royal Gazette, following which the election must be held in 45 to 60 days.

The Election Commission had initially suggested that the polling will take place on May 7, but final confirmation is yet to be made.

“I have prepared (the decree), we have to wait. &nbsp;We have to wait for the announcement in the Royal Gazette,” Prayuth told reporters in the northern city of Chiang Mai, according to Reuters news agency.

When asked when will the announcement be made, he responded, “We have to wait.”

This high-stakes election is significant for Prayuth’s political career who—after emerging as coup leader in 2014 and then being elected as civilian head—will find it difficult to extend his term as the constitutional will allow only two more years to be prime minister.

Prayuth had jumped the shift to the conservative United Thai Nation party after his previous party, the military-backed Palang Pracharath Party, decided to pick another prime minister candidate.

The stakes are high for Prayuth as he will be pitted against Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter of former premier Thaksin Shinawatra. The 36-year-old woman has dominated the opinion polls for months, emerging to be the top choice for Thailand’s next prime minister.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-xi-to-sign-declaration-as-russia-china-ties-enter-new-era-kremlin-573041">Putin, Xi to sign declaration as Russia-China ties enter 'new era': Kremlin</a>

Speaking on Friday at an event to introduce Pheu Thai’s candidates, she said that she was confident of winning the election by a landslide.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-poland-slovakia-to-send-13-mig-29-fighter-jets-to-war-torn-ukraine-572961">After Poland, Slovakia to send 13 MiG-29 fighter jets to war-torn Ukraine</a>

Pheu Thai party’s previous administration has won every election in the past two decades, but their rule was cut short three times by judicial rulings or military takeovers.

“I have a strong hope that we can form a government for sure, that’s why we go ourselves to campaign about a landslide,” Paetongtarn said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha on Friday ordered dissolution of the parliament ahead of the all-important general election as the military leader seeks to extend his second term spanning eight years.

Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha on Friday ordered dissolution of the parliament ahead of the all-important general election as the military leader seeks to extend his second term spanning eight years. The PM issued a decree in this regard and it will be next sent to Thailand’s monarch for approval. It would take effect once it is published in the Royal Gazette, following which the election must be held in 45 to 60 days. The Election Commission had initially suggested that the polling will take place on May 7, but final confirmation is yet to be made. “I have prepared (the decree), we have to wait. We have to wait for the announcement in the Royal Gazette,” Prayuth told reporters in the northern city of Chiang Mai, according to Reuters news agency. When asked when will the announcement be made, he responded, “We have to wait.” This high-stakes election is significant for Prayuth’s political career who—after emerging as coup leader in 2014 and then being elected as civilian head—will find it difficult to extend his term as the constitutional will allow only two more years to be prime minister. Prayuth had jumped the shift to the conservative United Thai Nation party after his previous party, the military-backed Palang Pracharath Party, decided to pick another prime minister candidate. The stakes are high for Prayuth as he will be pitted against Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter of former premier Thaksin Shinawatra. The 36-year-old woman has dominated the opinion polls for months, emerging to be the top choice for Thailand’s next prime minister. Also read | Putin, Xi to sign declaration as Russia-China ties enter 'new era': Kremlin Speaking on Friday at an event to introduce Pheu Thai’s candidates, she said that she was confident of winning the election by a landslide. Also read | After Poland, Slovakia to send 13 MiG-29 fighter jets to war-torn Ukraine Pheu Thai party’s previous administration has won every election in the past two decades, but their rule was cut short three times by judicial rulings or military takeovers. “I have a strong hope that we can form a government for sure, that’s why we go ourselves to campaign about a landslide,” Paetongtarn said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Thai PM Prayuth Chan-ocha orders dissolution of parliament, paving way for high-stakes elections

In Pics | Thailand celebrates National Elephant Day honours them as part of country's heritage

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