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)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

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;

<main>
<section>
(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

In pics | Thailand sets new world record for largest Muay Thai ceremony

Those seeking an appointment for US B1 and B2 visa (travel and business) urgently and wanting to avoid long waiting periods in India can now travel to other countries to the US embassy or consulate.&nbsp;The US mission in New Delhi on Friday announced that this new facility has been opened in Thailand and will soon be made accessible in other countries.

"Do you have upcoming international travel? If so, you may be able to get a visa appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your destination. For example, @USEmbassyBKK has opened B1/B2 appointment capacity for Indians who will be in Thailand in the coming months," US embassy, India, tweeted.

On average, the waiting period in India’s northeastern Kolkata state is 589 days, and 638 days in Mumbai, as opposed to just 14 days in Bangkok.

The US has been accelerating work to reduce the longer waiting hours to process visas for Indians.

From arranging special interviews for first-time applicants and expanding the strength of consular workers, to holding "special Saturday interview days" on January 21, the US embassy has been implementing a multi-pronged approach to reduce the delays.

For applicants with prior US visas, the US State Department has also instituted remote processing of interview waiver instances.

More than 250,000 additional B1/B2 appointments were made public two weeks ago by the US mission in India.

A senior US visa officer told PTI news agency recently that the US is "putting every ounce of its energy" into reducing the lengthy visa wait time in India.

This includes sending a team of consular officers to the nation and making its other overseas embassies, including those in Germany and Thailand, open to Indian citizens seeking visas.

India has been one of the few countries where applications for US visas saw a major upswing after Covid-related travel restrictions were lifted.

India’s foreign minister S Jaishankar had raised this issue in September with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Those seeking an appointment for US B1 and B2 visa (travel and business) urgently and wanting to avoid long waiting periods in India can now travel to other countries to the US embassy or consulate.

Those seeking an appointment for US B1 and B2 visa (travel and business) urgently and wanting to avoid long waiting periods in India can now travel to other countries to the US embassy or consulate. The US mission in New Delhi on Friday announced that this new facility has been opened in Thailand and will soon be made accessible in other countries. "Do you have upcoming international travel? If so, you may be able to get a visa appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your destination. For example, @USEmbassyBKK has opened B1/B2 appointment capacity for Indians who will be in Thailand in the coming months," US embassy, India, tweeted. On average, the waiting period in India’s northeastern Kolkata state is 589 days, and 638 days in Mumbai, as opposed to just 14 days in Bangkok. The US has been accelerating work to reduce the longer waiting hours to process visas for Indians. From arranging special interviews for first-time applicants and expanding the strength of consular workers, to holding "special Saturday interview days" on January 21, the US embassy has been implementing a multi-pronged approach to reduce the delays. For applicants with prior US visas, the US State Department has also instituted remote processing of interview waiver instances. More than 250,000 additional B1/B2 appointments were made public two weeks ago by the US mission in India. A senior US visa officer told PTI news agency recently that the US is "putting every ounce of its energy" into reducing the lengthy visa wait time in India. This includes sending a team of consular officers to the nation and making its other overseas embassies, including those in Germany and Thailand, open to Indian citizens seeking visas. India has been one of the few countries where applications for US visas saw a major upswing after Covid-related travel restrictions were lifted. India’s foreign minister S Jaishankar had raised this issue in September with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indians seeking American visa appointments can now go to US embassies abroad

At least one person was killed and four others were injured after an explosion on an oil tanker ship took place, on early Tuesday (January 17), in Thailand’s Samut Songkhram province, said officials. According to media reports, several houses were also damaged after the explosion and subsequent fire on the “Smooth Sea 22”, an oil tanker stationed southwest of the capital Bangkok. In a bid to douse the flames water was&nbsp;sprayed from the&nbsp;shore as well as&nbsp;smaller boats onto the ship, as smoke continued to emerge from the tanker, reported Reuters citing videos of the incident.&nbsp;

According to the provincial governor Somnuk Promkaew, as of Tuesday afternoon, seven people are still missing and said that the explosion occurred during welding when some 10 workers were aboard the ship and 30 others were on the banks of the dockyard, reported the Bangkok Post. The incident occurred when the oil tanker was undergoing regular maintenance work at the Ruam Mitr Dockyard.&nbsp;

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The country’s Marine Department indicated that the fire was brought under control after an hour and said they will launch an investigation into the incident. One dock worker was killed, while four others, one a Thai and three from Myanmar were injured and among the seven people missing were six from Myanmar and one Thai national, said a report by the Bangkok Post.&nbsp;

The governor also said that the tanker which was previously reported empty still had around 25,000 litres of fuel oil and 20,000 litres of diesel onboard while it was anchored for maintenance. According to local media reports, the explosion caused damage to nearby houses and was heard several kilometres away. Meanwhile, the authorities are yet to confirm the cause of the explosion.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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At least one person was killed and four others were injured after an explosion on an oil tanker ship took place, on early Tuesday (January 17), in Thailand’s Samut Songkhram province, said officials.

At least one person was killed and four others were injured after an explosion on an oil tanker ship took place, on early Tuesday (January 17), in Thailand’s Samut Songkhram province, said officials. According to media reports, several houses were also damaged after the explosion and subsequent fire on the “Smooth Sea 22”, an oil tanker stationed southwest of the capital Bangkok. In a bid to douse the flames water was sprayed from the shore as well as smaller boats onto the ship, as smoke continued to emerge from the tanker, reported Reuters citing videos of the incident. According to the provincial governor Somnuk Promkaew, as of Tuesday afternoon, seven people are still missing and said that the explosion occurred during welding when some 10 workers were aboard the ship and 30 others were on the banks of the dockyard, reported the Bangkok Post. The incident occurred when the oil tanker was undergoing regular maintenance work at the Ruam Mitr Dockyard. ALSO READ | Thailand reimposes Covid entry rules in wake of China outbreak The country’s Marine Department indicated that the fire was brought under control after an hour and said they will launch an investigation into the incident. One dock worker was killed, while four others, one a Thai and three from Myanmar were injured and among the seven people missing were six from Myanmar and one Thai national, said a report by the Bangkok Post. The governor also said that the tanker which was previously reported empty still had around 25,000 litres of fuel oil and 20,000 litres of diesel onboard while it was anchored for maintenance. According to local media reports, the explosion caused damage to nearby houses and was heard several kilometres away. Meanwhile, the authorities are yet to confirm the cause of the explosion. (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: At least one killed, four injured after explosion on oil tanker ship

In pics: Strange New Year celebrations around the globe

On Saturday, Thailand marked the arrival of its 10 millionth international visitor in 2022, as per the tourism authority as the travel sector recovered from the pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;Around 40 million tourists were welcomed by Thailand in 2019, however, the travel industry badly suffered due to the restrictions imposed during the pandemic.&nbsp;With relaxation in those restrictions worldwide, the travel numbers in Thailand have started a slow recovery and the government is aiming to generate tourism revenue of $16 billion this year. 
 
The passengers de-boarding a Saudi Arabian Airlines flight were welcomed by traditional drummers and dancers on Saturday at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport, as they clocked the 10 million milestone.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/months-after-decriminalising-marijuana-thailand-in-dilemma-over-misuse-535188">Months after decriminalising marijuana, Thailand in dilemma over misuse</a>

While speaking at the airport, Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha said, "The sky is open. We would like to build confidence that Thailand is still one of the (top) tourist destinations of people around the world."

This week, Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith said that they expect a growth in the number of visitors next year too.

As per the government figures, Thailand is likely to welcome around 23 million tourists in 2023. However, according to a few analysts, the tourist numbers can see a full recovery in 2024.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-temple-left-without-monks-after-all-its-holy-men-failed-drug-tests-538499">Thailand temple left without monks after all its holy men failed drug tests</a>

The growth in the tourism business has also given relief to Thai hotel owners and restauranteurs. Thai Hotels Association's president Marisa Sukosol welcomed the achievement of the 10 million travellers' milestone "after two years and a half of pain".

"I think next year we will see continuous momentum of growth," she added, emphasising the arrival of tourists from Asia-Pacific and Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

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On Saturday, Thailand marked the arrival of its 10 millionth international visitor in 2022, as per the tourism authority as the travel sector recovered from the pandemic.

On Saturday, Thailand marked the arrival of its 10 millionth international visitor in 2022, as per the tourism authority as the travel sector recovered from the pandemic. Around 40 million tourists were welcomed by Thailand in 2019, however, the travel industry badly suffered due to the restrictions imposed during the pandemic. With relaxation in those restrictions worldwide, the travel numbers in Thailand have started a slow recovery and the government is aiming to generate tourism revenue of $16 billion this year. The passengers de-boarding a Saudi Arabian Airlines flight were welcomed by traditional drummers and dancers on Saturday at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport, as they clocked the 10 million milestone. ALSO READ| Months after decriminalising marijuana, Thailand in dilemma over misuse While speaking at the airport, Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha said, "The sky is open. We would like to build confidence that Thailand is still one of the (top) tourist destinations of people around the world." This week, Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith said that they expect a growth in the number of visitors next year too. As per the government figures, Thailand is likely to welcome around 23 million tourists in 2023. However, according to a few analysts, the tourist numbers can see a full recovery in 2024. ALSO READ| Thailand temple left without monks after all its holy men failed drug tests The growth in the tourism business has also given relief to Thai hotel owners and restauranteurs. Thai Hotels Association's president Marisa Sukosol welcomed the achievement of the 10 million travellers' milestone "after two years and a half of pain". "I think next year we will see continuous momentum of growth," she added, emphasising the arrival of tourists from Asia-Pacific and Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

Thailand records 10 million tourist arrivals in 2022 as travel sector recovers

Thailand&nbsp;on Wednesday banned sunscreens containing chemicals that damage coral reefs from its marine national parks.

The kingdom's sandy beaches have long been popular destinations for millions of tourists but concerns are growing that the lotions they use as protection from the tropical sun are harming delicate, slow-growing corals.

An order came into force on Wednesday banning lotions containing oxybenzone, octinoxate, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor or butylparaben from&nbsp;Thailand's marine national parks.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/we-need-to-rethink-our-role-on-planet-if-corals-cannot-be-saved-538687">'We need to rethink our role on planet if corals cannot be saved'</a>

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The announcement said the science showed the chemicals "deteriorate coral reefs, destroy coral larvae, obstruct their reproductive system and cause coral reef bleaching".

Thailand&nbsp;follows the Pacific island of Palau and the US state of Hawaii which have already imposed similar bans.

Violators face a fine of up to 100,000 Thai baht ($3,000) though officials have not said how they plan to enforce the ban.

Thailand's key tourism sector has been devastated by the pandemic as the government imposed tough entry restrictions as part of efforts to curb the virus.

Thailand on Wednesday banned sunscreens containing chemicals that damage coral reefs from its marine national parks. The kingdom's sandy beaches have long been popular destinations for millions of tourists but concerns are growing that the lotions they use as protection from the tropical sun are harming delicate, slow-growing corals.

Thailand on Wednesday banned sunscreens containing chemicals that damage coral reefs from its marine national parks. The kingdom's sandy beaches have long been popular destinations for millions of tourists but concerns are growing that the lotions they use as protection from the tropical sun are harming delicate, slow-growing corals. An order came into force on Wednesday banning lotions containing oxybenzone, octinoxate, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor or butylparaben from Thailand's marine national parks. WATCH | 'We need to rethink our role on planet if corals cannot be saved' × The announcement said the science showed the chemicals "deteriorate coral reefs, destroy coral larvae, obstruct their reproductive system and cause coral reef bleaching". Thailand follows the Pacific island of Palau and the US state of Hawaii which have already imposed similar bans. Violators face a fine of up to 100,000 Thai baht ($3,000) though officials have not said how they plan to enforce the ban. Thailand's key tourism sector has been devastated by the pandemic as the government imposed tough entry restrictions as part of efforts to curb the virus.

Thailand bans coral-damaging sunscreens

A&nbsp;Buddhist monastery in central Thailand is now without monks after all of its holy men failed drug tests and were defrocked, as reported by AFP.

According to district administrator, Boonlert Thintapthai of Phetchabun province, four monks, including an abbot, at a temple in the Bung Sam Phan district tested positive for methamphetamine on Monday.&nbsp;

The monks have been transferred to a medical facility for drug rehabilitation.&nbsp;

The monks have left the temple, and the nearby villagers are worried that they cannot perform any merit-making, he said.

Worshippers might earn merit by giving food to monks as a good deed.&nbsp;

More monks will be dispatched to the temple, according to Boonlert, so that the locals can fulfil their religious duties.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-searches-for-china-covid-protests-are-filled-with-porn-and-spam-538452">Govt bot offensive? Twitter searches on China Covid protests return porn and spam</a>

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime claims that Thailand is a significant transit country for methamphetamine that enters the country via Laos from Myanmar's unstable Shan state.&nbsp;

Pills can be purchased for less than 20 baht (about $0.50) on the street.&nbsp;

In recent years, authorities in Southeast Asia have seized unprecedented amounts of meth.

(with inputs from agencies)

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A Buddhist monastery in central Thailand is now without monks after all of its holy men failed drug tests and were defrocked, as reported by AFP. According to district administrator, Boonlert Thintapthai of Phetchabun province, four monks, including an abbot, at a temple in the Bung Sam Phan district tested positive for methamphetamine on Monday.

A Buddhist monastery in central Thailand is now without monks after all of its holy men failed drug tests and were defrocked, as reported by AFP. According to district administrator, Boonlert Thintapthai of Phetchabun province, four monks, including an abbot, at a temple in the Bung Sam Phan district tested positive for methamphetamine on Monday. The monks have been transferred to a medical facility for drug rehabilitation. The monks have left the temple, and the nearby villagers are worried that they cannot perform any merit-making, he said. Worshippers might earn merit by giving food to monks as a good deed. More monks will be dispatched to the temple, according to Boonlert, so that the locals can fulfil their religious duties. Also Read: Govt bot offensive? Twitter searches on China Covid protests return porn and spam The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime claims that Thailand is a significant transit country for methamphetamine that enters the country via Laos from Myanmar's unstable Shan state. Pills can be purchased for less than 20 baht (about $0.50) on the street. In recent years, authorities in Southeast Asia have seized unprecedented amounts of meth. (with inputs from agencies)

Thailand temple left without monks after all its holy men failed drug tests

Thailand, the host of the APEC summit, urged leaders of the group meeting to “rise above differences” and focus on resolving pressing global economic issues in areas such as trade and inflation. The meeting is being held&nbsp;in Bangkok on Friday and Saturday.

Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron told Asian countries that the conflict in Ukraine was "your problem&nbsp;too" and asked them&nbsp;to join the "increasing consensus" against it.

World leaders started arriving for the APEC summit, the third back-to-back summit of&nbsp;this week after COP27 and G20 summits, from Friday (November 18). This year's theme and focus is "Open. Connect. Balance", and world leaders will discuss among themselves the possible geopolitical&nbsp;roles that they can play with the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;

Chinese President Xi Jinping, Japanese PM Fumio Kishida, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Australian PM Anthony Albanese will be among many other world leaders attending the summit.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-2022-in-bali-explained-history-significance-and-indias-agenda-533923">G20 Summit 2022 in Bali EXPLAINED: History, significance and India's agenda</a>

APEC is the group of 21 countries in the Pacific Rim region&nbsp;that focus on the economy of the region, and also discuss and make strategies in promoting free trade throughout the&nbsp;Asia-Pacific region. With its headquarters in Singapore, APEC is considered as one of&nbsp;the oldest international forums in the Asia-Pacific Region.

Xi and Kishida's bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the summit is one of the high-profile talks at the forum, especially when China and Japan's relations&nbsp;have been strained due to their historical past and security concerns.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-told-nato-that-ukraine-air-defence-missile-responsible-for-poland-blast-report-534737">Joe Biden told NATO that Ukraine air defence missile landed in Poland: Report</a>

In a pre-summit event, Thailand PM Prayuth Chan-ocha, who is also the host of this year's summit, said&nbsp;the forum would focus on “new trade and investment narratives” and “the need to reconnect supply chains and travel,&nbsp;and the global sustainability agenda”. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Thailand, the host of the APEC summit, urged leaders of the group meeting to “rise above differences” and focus on resolving pressing global economic issues in areas such as trade and inflation.

Thailand, the host of the APEC summit, urged leaders of the group meeting to “rise above differences” and focus on resolving pressing global economic issues in areas such as trade and inflation. The meeting is being held in Bangkok on Friday and Saturday. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron told Asian countries that the conflict in Ukraine was "your problem too" and asked them to join the "increasing consensus" against it. World leaders started arriving for the APEC summit, the third back-to-back summit of this week after COP27 and G20 summits, from Friday (November 18). This year's theme and focus is "Open. Connect. Balance", and world leaders will discuss among themselves the possible geopolitical roles that they can play with the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine. Chinese President Xi Jinping, Japanese PM Fumio Kishida, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Australian PM Anthony Albanese will be among many other world leaders attending the summit. Also Read | G20 Summit 2022 in Bali EXPLAINED: History, significance and India's agenda APEC is the group of 21 countries in the Pacific Rim region that focus on the economy of the region, and also discuss and make strategies in promoting free trade throughout the Asia-Pacific region. With its headquarters in Singapore, APEC is considered as one of the oldest international forums in the Asia-Pacific Region. Xi and Kishida's bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the summit is one of the high-profile talks at the forum, especially when China and Japan's relations have been strained due to their historical past and security concerns. Also Read | Joe Biden told NATO that Ukraine air defence missile landed in Poland: Report In a pre-summit event, Thailand PM Prayuth Chan-ocha, who is also the host of this year's summit, said the forum would focus on “new trade and investment narratives” and “the need to reconnect supply chains and travel, and the global sustainability agenda”. (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.

APEC host nation Thailand urges world leaders to ‘rise above differences’

A three-year-old toddler luckily survived the horrific massacre at a nursery in northeast Thailand. The girl was fast asleep under a blanket in the corner of a classroom while former police officer Panya Khamrap killed more than 30 people, mostly children in the nursery.

Paveenut Supolwong, nicknamed "Ammy," is normally a light sleeper, but at naptime on Thursday (October 6) when the killer burst into the nursery and began murdering 22 children, Ammy was fast asleep with the blanket covering her face, her parents said.

The coincidence has saved her life. Ammy is the only child in the nursery who escaped unscathed

"I'm in shock," said Ammy's mother, Panompai Sithong. "I feel for other families... I'm glad that my kid survived. It's a mixed feeling of sadness and gratitude."

Ammy's parents say that she appears to have no memory of the horrific massacre Someone found her stirring in a far corner of a classroom, after the killer had left, and carried her out with her head covered by the blanket so she did not see the bodies of her classmates.

Of the 22 children stabbed to death, 11 died in the classroom where she was napping, according to police.

Two other children were in hospital with serious head wounds.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A three-year-old toddler luckily survived the horrific massacre at a nursery in northeast Thailand. The girl was fast asleep under a blanket in the corner of a classroom while former police officer Panya Khamrap killed more than 30 people, mostly children in the nursery.

A three-year-old toddler luckily survived the horrific massacre at a nursery in northeast Thailand. The girl was fast asleep under a blanket in the corner of a classroom while former police officer Panya Khamrap killed more than 30 people, mostly children in the nursery. Paveenut Supolwong, nicknamed "Ammy," is normally a light sleeper, but at naptime on Thursday (October 6) when the killer burst into the nursery and began murdering 22 children, Ammy was fast asleep with the blanket covering her face, her parents said. The coincidence has saved her life. Ammy is the only child in the nursery who escaped unscathed "I'm in shock," said Ammy's mother, Panompai Sithong. "I feel for other families... I'm glad that my kid survived. It's a mixed feeling of sadness and gratitude." Ammy's parents say that she appears to have no memory of the horrific massacre Someone found her stirring in a far corner of a classroom, after the killer had left, and carried her out with her head covered by the blanket so she did not see the bodies of her classmates. Of the 22 children stabbed to death, 11 died in the classroom where she was napping, according to police. Two other children were in hospital with serious head wounds. (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 ×

Thailand massacre: Three-year-old 'miracle' girl escaped death because she slept

Those who are dealing with family violence, drug addiction, and mental illness on the front lines in a nation where weapons abound, claim that support services are in crisis and need to be overhauled in order to stop additional tragedies as Thailand recovers from one of its most tragic mass shootings.&nbsp;

On Thursday, 36 people—mostly children—were killed when a former police officer named Panya Khamrab raided a daycare in the northern Nong Bua Lam Phu region. He then killed his wife and small kid before killing himself.

According to police, the shooter had been sacked from the police department for drug use and had a yaba (methamphetamine in tablet form) addiction.&nbsp;

According to health professionals, using meth can cause paranoia, hallucinations, and aggressive behaviour, and those who quit may develop psychosis.

Drug problem&nbsp;

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime claims that Thailand is a significant transit nation for meth that enters the country via Laos from Myanmar's unstable Shan state. Pills may be purchased for as low as 20 baht (or $0.50) on the street.&nbsp;

In Bangkok and other large cities, it might be simple for drug users to get addiction treatment, but access is far more challenging in rural regions.

Guns galore&nbsp;

Two army officers were fatally shot less than a month ago at a military training facility in Bangkok, the country's capital.&nbsp;

A soldier also murdered 29 people in 2020 during a 17-hour spree that was sparked by a financial quarrel with a senior officer.&nbsp;

The Gun Policy database at Sydney University estimates that there were 10 million weapons in circulation in 2017, or one for every seven individuals, even outside the reach of security authorities.

Domestic violence&nbsp;

According to National Police Chief Damrongsak Kittiprapat, the day of the tragedy started with the shooter fighting with his wife at 4 am and finished with him killing her and their son before taking his own life.&nbsp;

In a nation with a population of 70 million people, there were 2,177 occurrences of domestic abuse during the most recent fiscal year, according to the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Board.&nbsp;

However, considering how little is known about incidents in Thailand, this is believed to be an underestimate.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Those who are dealing with family violence, drug addiction, and mental illness on the front lines in a nation where weapons abound, claim that support services are in crisis and need to be overhauled in order to stop additional tragedies as Thailand recovers from one of its most tragic mass shootings.

Those who are dealing with family violence, drug addiction, and mental illness on the front lines in a nation where weapons abound, claim that support services are in crisis and need to be overhauled in order to stop additional tragedies as Thailand recovers from one of its most tragic mass shootings. On Thursday, 36 people—mostly children—were killed when a former police officer named Panya Khamrab raided a daycare in the northern Nong Bua Lam Phu region. He then killed his wife and small kid before killing himself. According to police, the shooter had been sacked from the police department for drug use and had a yaba (methamphetamine in tablet form) addiction. According to health professionals, using meth can cause paranoia, hallucinations, and aggressive behaviour, and those who quit may develop psychosis. Drug problem The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime claims that Thailand is a significant transit nation for meth that enters the country via Laos from Myanmar's unstable Shan state. Pills may be purchased for as low as 20 baht (or $0.50) on the street. In Bangkok and other large cities, it might be simple for drug users to get addiction treatment, but access is far more challenging in rural regions. Guns galore Two army officers were fatally shot less than a month ago at a military training facility in Bangkok, the country's capital. A soldier also murdered 29 people in 2020 during a 17-hour spree that was sparked by a financial quarrel with a senior officer. The Gun Policy database at Sydney University estimates that there were 10 million weapons in circulation in 2017, or one for every seven individuals, even outside the reach of security authorities. Domestic violence According to National Police Chief Damrongsak Kittiprapat, the day of the tragedy started with the shooter fighting with his wife at 4 am and finished with him killing her and their son before taking his own life. In a nation with a population of 70 million people, there were 2,177 occurrences of domestic abuse during the most recent fiscal year, according to the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Board. However, considering how little is known about incidents in Thailand, this is believed to be an underestimate. (with inputs from agencies)

Explained: Thailand's bloody mix of drugs, guns and violence

A Myanmar beauty queen, who had spoken out against military rule in her country and was stranded at Thailand's airport, said she was relieved but remained defiant after landing in Toronto on Wednesday.

Han Lay captured global attention last year with her pageant speech on the army's deadly suppression of anti-junta protests. After spending the past year in Thailand, she was denied re-entry into the country after a brief exit and spent days in Bangkok airport, pleading on social media not to be sent back home.

"Since I landed here, I feel safe and my worries have gone away," she told Reuters by phone from Toronto's international airport where she was awaiting a connecting flight to eastern Canada. "I am always a supporter for Myanmar democracy; I will always support it as much as I can."

The 23-year-old, whose real name is Thaw Nandar Aung, said she was going to live in Prince Edward Island, a province off Canada's Atlantic coast, with the government's assistance but did not say how long she would be there or what her status in Canada was.

Thai immigration officials denied her entry last week following a brief visit to Vietnam, saying she was using invalid travel documents.&nbsp;Han Lay arrived in Toronto via Seoul, on a Korean Air flight.

Myanmar has been plagued by violence since the military seized power early last year, with clashes between junta forces and militias allied with a shadow government and pro-democracy groups. A crackdown has targeted pro-democracy and youth groups, activists, politicians, celebrities and social media influencers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

A Human Rights Watch director said Myanmar's military rulers were using control over passports as a weapon against citizens' right to travel internationally.

"Such actions should be universally condemned, and governments around the world should be on guard against the junta using similar tactics against overseas dissidents travelling on Myanmar passports in the future," Phil Robertson said in a statement.

A spokesperson for Myanmar's junta did not respond to calls seeking comment. A spokesperson for Canada's immigration minister declined to provide details on Han Lay's case without her consent.

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A Myanmar beauty queen, who had spoken out against military rule in her country and was stranded at Thailand's airport, said she was relieved but remained defiant after landing in Toronto on Wednesday.

A Myanmar beauty queen, who had spoken out against military rule in her country and was stranded at Thailand's airport, said she was relieved but remained defiant after landing in Toronto on Wednesday. Han Lay captured global attention last year with her pageant speech on the army's deadly suppression of anti-junta protests. After spending the past year in Thailand, she was denied re-entry into the country after a brief exit and spent days in Bangkok airport, pleading on social media not to be sent back home. "Since I landed here, I feel safe and my worries have gone away," she told Reuters by phone from Toronto's international airport where she was awaiting a connecting flight to eastern Canada. "I am always a supporter for Myanmar democracy; I will always support it as much as I can." The 23-year-old, whose real name is Thaw Nandar Aung, said she was going to live in Prince Edward Island, a province off Canada's Atlantic coast, with the government's assistance but did not say how long she would be there or what her status in Canada was. Thai immigration officials denied her entry last week following a brief visit to Vietnam, saying she was using invalid travel documents. Han Lay arrived in Toronto via Seoul, on a Korean Air flight. Myanmar has been plagued by violence since the military seized power early last year, with clashes between junta forces and militias allied with a shadow government and pro-democracy groups. A crackdown has targeted pro-democracy and youth groups, activists, politicians, celebrities and social media influencers. A Human Rights Watch director said Myanmar's military rulers were using control over passports as a weapon against citizens' right to travel internationally. "Such actions should be universally condemned, and governments around the world should be on guard against the junta using similar tactics against overseas dissidents travelling on Myanmar passports in the future," Phil Robertson said in a statement. A spokesperson for Myanmar's junta did not respond to calls seeking comment. A spokesperson for Canada's immigration minister declined to provide details on Han Lay's case without her consent. 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.

Anti-junta speech: Myanmar beauty queen stranded at Bangkok airport lands in Canada

On Saturday, India’s ministry of external affairs (MEA) issued a warning which was brought to the ministry’s notice by the country’s missions in Bangkok and Myanmar. In the statement, they warned Indian youths against “lucrative job offers” based in Thailand through social media advertisements and agents.&nbsp;

“Instances of fake job rackets offering lucrative jobs to entice Indian youths for the posts of 'Digital Sales and Marketing Executives' in Thailand by dubious IT firms involved in call-centre scam and crypto-currency fraud have been brought to our notice recently by our Missions in Bangkok and Myanmar,” said the MEA statement. 
 
The ministry said target groups are IT-skilled youth who are enticed by “lucrative job offers” like data entry in Thailand by social media ads and also by Dubai and India-based agents.&nbsp;

These victims are reportedly taken to Myanmar, illegally across the border and held captive to work in harsh conditions. “Therefore, Indian nationals are advised not to get entrapped in such fake job offers being floated through social media platforms or other sources,”&nbsp;the MEA said.&nbsp;

Subsequently, the statement read, “Before travelling on tourist/visit visa for employment purposes, Indian nationals are advised to check/verify credentials of foreign employers through concerned Missions abroad, and antecedents of recruiting agents as well as any company before taking up any job offer.”&nbsp;

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Advisory regarding fake job rackets targeting IT skilled youth<a href="https://t.co/Pty9wblp45">https://t.co/Pty9wblp45</a> <a href="https://t.co/bnuhth3NbI">pic.twitter.com/bnuhth3NbI</a>
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&nbsp;

This advisory comes following Thursday’s MEA weekly press briefing which warned Indian nations to exercise extreme caution while accepting job offers in Thailand as dozens of Indian citizens were illegally trafficked to Myanmar as part of an employment scam.&nbsp;

“We are aware that fraudulent IT companies that appear to engage in digital scamming and forged crypto activities&nbsp;seem to be operating with agents from Dubai, Bangkok, and India,” said the MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi. He added, they are recruiting Indians under the pretext of job offers and employment opportunities in Thailand.

The victims are then taken across the border in Myawaddy, a town in Myanmar, which is an area “difficult to access” given the local security situation, said Bagchi. He went on to thank the Missions in the country which have been able to rescue some of the victims from “captivity or forced labour”. Bagchi also indicated that rescue is underway for others and asked everyone to exercise extreme caution.&nbsp;

“It may also be mentioned here that the visa-on-arrival scheme in Thailand does not permit employment. Our embassies in Thailand and Myanmar have issued advisories in this regard. We have also taken up the matter in both countries,”&nbsp;said the MEA spokesperson.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

On Saturday, India’s ministry of external affairs (MEA) issued a warning which was brought to the ministry’s notice by the country’s missions in Bangkok and Myanmar.

On Saturday, India’s ministry of external affairs (MEA) issued a warning which was brought to the ministry’s notice by the country’s missions in Bangkok and Myanmar. In the statement, they warned Indian youths against “lucrative job offers” based in Thailand through social media advertisements and agents. “Instances of fake job rackets offering lucrative jobs to entice Indian youths for the posts of 'Digital Sales and Marketing Executives' in Thailand by dubious IT firms involved in call-centre scam and crypto-currency fraud have been brought to our notice recently by our Missions in Bangkok and Myanmar,” said the MEA statement. The ministry said target groups are IT-skilled youth who are enticed by “lucrative job offers” like data entry in Thailand by social media ads and also by Dubai and India-based agents. These victims are reportedly taken to Myanmar, illegally across the border and held captive to work in harsh conditions. “Therefore, Indian nationals are advised not to get entrapped in such fake job offers being floated through social media platforms or other sources,” the MEA said. Subsequently, the statement read, “Before travelling on tourist/visit visa for employment purposes, Indian nationals are advised to check/verify credentials of foreign employers through concerned Missions abroad, and antecedents of recruiting agents as well as any company before taking up any job offer.” Advisory regarding fake job rackets targeting IT skilled youthhttps://t.co/Pty9wblp45 pic.twitter.com/bnuhth3NbI — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) September 24, 2022 × This advisory comes following Thursday’s MEA weekly press briefing which warned Indian nations to exercise extreme caution while accepting job offers in Thailand as dozens of Indian citizens were illegally trafficked to Myanmar as part of an employment scam. “We are aware that fraudulent IT companies that appear to engage in digital scamming and forged crypto activities seem to be operating with agents from Dubai, Bangkok, and India,” said the MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi. He added, they are recruiting Indians under the pretext of job offers and employment opportunities in Thailand. The victims are then taken across the border in Myawaddy, a town in Myanmar, which is an area “difficult to access” given the local security situation, said Bagchi. He went on to thank the Missions in the country which have been able to rescue some of the victims from “captivity or forced labour”. Bagchi also indicated that rescue is underway for others and asked everyone to exercise extreme caution. “It may also be mentioned here that the visa-on-arrival scheme in Thailand does not permit employment. Our embassies in Thailand and Myanmar have issued advisories in this regard. We have also taken up the matter in both countries,” said the MEA spokesperson. (With inputs from agencies)

India: MEA issues warning about fake job rackets in Thailand targeting IT-skilled youth

A gunman killed one person and wounded two others in a shooting at a military facility in Bangkok on Wednesday, Thai police told AFP.&nbsp;

Deputy national police spokesman Kissana Phathanacharoen said a suspect had been detained after the incident at the Army Training Command Department, part of a large complex of military buildings in the north of the capital.&nbsp;

Local media reported that the suspect is a soldier, though the motives for the shooting were not immediately clear. &nbsp;

"The shooting caused one death and two injuries, local police have taken control of the situation," Kissana Phathanacharoen told AFP.&nbsp;

"We are able to detain a suspect already."&nbsp;

In 2020, a soldier gunned down 29 people in a 17-hour rampage and wounded scores more before he was shot dead by commandos in an incident that shocked Thailand.&nbsp;

That mass shooting was linked to a debt dispute between gunman Sergeant-Major Jakrapanth Thomma and a senior officer, and the military top brass were at pains to portray the killer as a rogue soldier.&nbsp;

The military has powerful influence in many aspects of life in Thailand from politics to business, and has intervened to seize power numerous times over the decades, most recently in 2014.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

A gunman killed one person and wounded two others in a shooting at a military facility in Bangkok on Wednesday, Thai police told AFP. Deputy national police spokesman Kissana Phathanacharoen said a suspect had been detained after the incident at the Army Training Command Department, part of a large complex of military buildings in the north of the capital.

A gunman killed one person and wounded two others in a shooting at a military facility in Bangkok on Wednesday, Thai police told AFP. Deputy national police spokesman Kissana Phathanacharoen said a suspect had been detained after the incident at the Army Training Command Department, part of a large complex of military buildings in the north of the capital. Local media reported that the suspect is a soldier, though the motives for the shooting were not immediately clear.  "The shooting caused one death and two injuries, local police have taken control of the situation," Kissana Phathanacharoen told AFP. "We are able to detain a suspect already." In 2020, a soldier gunned down 29 people in a 17-hour rampage and wounded scores more before he was shot dead by commandos in an incident that shocked Thailand. That mass shooting was linked to a debt dispute between gunman Sergeant-Major Jakrapanth Thomma and a senior officer, and the military top brass were at pains to portray the killer as a rogue soldier. The military has powerful influence in many aspects of life in Thailand from politics to business, and has intervened to seize power numerous times over the decades, most recently in 2014. 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 ×

One dead, two wounded in shooting at Thai military facility

On Monday, a Thai court sentenced political activist Jatuporn ‘New’ Saeoueng, to two years in prison for allegedly mocking the country’s monarchy by dressing up as the Thai queen. However, the 25-year-old has denied all charges saying that she just wore a traditional dress. The activist was found guilty of supposedly dressing as Queen Suthida during a street protest in Bangkok.&nbsp;

Thailand’s infamous “lese majeste” laws are some of the strictest in the world, which entail that it is a crime to defame or insult King Maha Vajiralongkorn and other royals. These laws have virtually made any criticism against the monarchy a punishable offence. The country’s rights groups have indicated that these laws are often used to quash any protest movement which has demanded the reform of Thailand’s powerful monarchy over the years.&nbsp;

On October 29, 2020, Jatuporn ‘New’ Saeoueng wore a pink dress and walked a “red carpet” at a mock fashion show held in Bangkok, as a fellow protestor held an umbrella over her. The rally was reportedly billed as a counterpoint to a fashion show held by King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s daughter, Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana. Notably, this is one of the several ‘red carpet protests’ held in Bangkok that year which were critical of the monarchy’s lavish lifestyle while citizens were struggling amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thailands-billionaire-king-vajiralongkorn-his-colourful-life-337129">Thailand's billionaire King Vajiralongkorn &amp; his colourful life</a>&nbsp;

In an interview prior to the hearing, Jatuporn said, “I have no intention to mock anyone. I dressed for myself on that day, for a version of myself in a Thai traditional dress.” According to her lawyer, the 25-year-old is charged with intentionally mocking the monarchy through her actions. Meanwhile, human rights groups in the country have strongly criticised Monday’s verdict. Thai Lawyers for Human Rights indicated that Jatuporn is one of the 210 activists who have been charged with insulting the monarchy in the past two years.&nbsp;

Queen Suthida, is known to dress in elegant silk clothes for public and formal occasions and similar to most royals in the country, often have attendants holding a ceremonial umbrella over them. Initially, Bangkok’s Criminal Court had sentenced the activist to three years in prison for violating the lese majeste law, said the legal aid group, but was immediately reduced to two years. She was also fined 1,000 baht ($27.50).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thailands-new-queen-flight-attendant-to-bodyguard-to-royalty-215386#journey-from-a-deputy-commander-to-queen-215367">Thailand's new queen: Flight attendant to bodyguard to royalty</a>

Jatuporn’s lawyer, Krisadang Nutcharat indicated that her client has denied the charges all along asserting that she usually wears a traditional Thai dress. “But the court sees it as mockery and defamatory towards the monarchy,” said Krisadang, adding that his client who is a transgender will appeal the ruling. Currently, Jatuporn has been sent to the Central Women’s Correctional Institution while she waits for another court’s ruling on her request to be freed on bail.&nbsp;

A statement by Amnesty International read, “The mock fashion show was a satirical take on the political situation of the country – a peaceful public event akin to a street festival with music, food and dancing,” said Kyle Ward, the deputy secretary general of the human rights group. He added, “Participants should not be punished for participating in a peaceful assembly.” The statement also urged the authorities to “immediately drop all charges” saying that these people were merely exercising their human right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.&nbsp;

In 2014, the protest movement which had initially targeted the military-backed government for conducting a coup and seizing the power from a democratically elected government also paved the way for speaking critically of Thailand’s monarchy, which was earlier considered taboo. This has led to many demonstrations held in the country since King Maha Vajiralongkorn ascended the throne in 2019, which demand greater scrutiny of the monarchy in Thailand. However, the protest leaders have exercised caution as they ask for a reform of the institution as opposed to complete abolishment.&nbsp; 
 
(with inputs from agencies)

On Monday, a Thai court sentenced political activist Jatuporn ‘New’ Saeoueng, to two years in prison for allegedly mocking the country’s monarchy by dressing up as the Thai queen.

On Monday, a Thai court sentenced political activist Jatuporn ‘New’ Saeoueng, to two years in prison for allegedly mocking the country’s monarchy by dressing up as the Thai queen. However, the 25-year-old has denied all charges saying that she just wore a traditional dress. The activist was found guilty of supposedly dressing as Queen Suthida during a street protest in Bangkok. Thailand’s infamous “lese majeste” laws are some of the strictest in the world, which entail that it is a crime to defame or insult King Maha Vajiralongkorn and other royals. These laws have virtually made any criticism against the monarchy a punishable offence. The country’s rights groups have indicated that these laws are often used to quash any protest movement which has demanded the reform of Thailand’s powerful monarchy over the years. On October 29, 2020, Jatuporn ‘New’ Saeoueng wore a pink dress and walked a “red carpet” at a mock fashion show held in Bangkok, as a fellow protestor held an umbrella over her. The rally was reportedly billed as a counterpoint to a fashion show held by King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s daughter, Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana. Notably, this is one of the several ‘red carpet protests’ held in Bangkok that year which were critical of the monarchy’s lavish lifestyle while citizens were struggling amid the Covid-19 pandemic. ALSO READ | Thailand's billionaire King Vajiralongkorn & his colourful life In an interview prior to the hearing, Jatuporn said, “I have no intention to mock anyone. I dressed for myself on that day, for a version of myself in a Thai traditional dress.” According to her lawyer, the 25-year-old is charged with intentionally mocking the monarchy through her actions. Meanwhile, human rights groups in the country have strongly criticised Monday’s verdict. Thai Lawyers for Human Rights indicated that Jatuporn is one of the 210 activists who have been charged with insulting the monarchy in the past two years. Queen Suthida, is known to dress in elegant silk clothes for public and formal occasions and similar to most royals in the country, often have attendants holding a ceremonial umbrella over them. Initially, Bangkok’s Criminal Court had sentenced the activist to three years in prison for violating the lese majeste law, said the legal aid group, but was immediately reduced to two years. She was also fined 1,000 baht ($27.50). ALSO READ | Thailand's new queen: Flight attendant to bodyguard to royalty Jatuporn’s lawyer, Krisadang Nutcharat indicated that her client has denied the charges all along asserting that she usually wears a traditional Thai dress. “But the court sees it as mockery and defamatory towards the monarchy,” said Krisadang, adding that his client who is a transgender will appeal the ruling. Currently, Jatuporn has been sent to the Central Women’s Correctional Institution while she waits for another court’s ruling on her request to be freed on bail. A statement by Amnesty International read, “The mock fashion show was a satirical take on the political situation of the country – a peaceful public event akin to a street festival with music, food and dancing,” said Kyle Ward, the deputy secretary general of the human rights group. He added, “Participants should not be punished for participating in a peaceful assembly.” The statement also urged the authorities to “immediately drop all charges” saying that these people were merely exercising their human right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. In 2014, the protest movement which had initially targeted the military-backed government for conducting a coup and seizing the power from a democratically elected government also paved the way for speaking critically of Thailand’s monarchy, which was earlier considered taboo. This has led to many demonstrations held in the country since King Maha Vajiralongkorn ascended the throne in 2019, which demand greater scrutiny of the monarchy in Thailand. However, the protest leaders have exercised caution as they ask for a reform of the institution as opposed to complete abolishment. (with inputs from agencies)

Thailand: Activist jailed for 2 years for mocking queen by dressing like her at protest

In what comes as an ironic statement by the Thailand government, pot-smoking tourists are reportedly not welcome in the country. Thailand's health minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Wednesday made the rather surprising statement.

In what comes as an ironic statement by the Thailand government, pot-smoking tourists are reportedly not welcome in the country. Thailand's health minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Wednesday made the rather surprising statement. "We don't welcome those kinds of tourists," said Charnvirakul referring to the tourists who land in Thailand with the sole purpose of using recreational marijuana. As reported by WION, in June, earlier this year, Thailand legalised the growing of marijuana and its consumption in food and drinks, with the aim of boosting its agriculture and tourism sectors. Cannabis growers were instructed to register on a government app called PlookGanja or grow ganja, another nickname for the spikey-leafed plant. Nearly 100,000 people signed up on the app, immediately after the announcement, health ministry official Paisan Dankhum had remarked back then. It is pertinent to note that the country had legalised cannabis for medical use in 2018. Thus the decision to legalise it for all and largely decriminalise its consumption was met with global appreciation. However, some caveats were applied even when opening up the market. Accordingly, smoking recreational susbstances outside, in public spaces can still lead to arrests under "public nuisance" laws rather than drugs legislation. Offenders potentially face a 25,000 baht ($780) fine, as well as up to three months in jail. And cannabis products with more than 0.2 per cent concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) -- the psychoactive compound that produces the drug's "high" remain illegal. In Pics | Thousands gather to 'smoke up' at Thailand's first fully legal cannabis festival However, the volte-face to discourage tourists can backfire as Thailand's tourism sector has just started to pick itself up after devastating waves of the Coronavirus pandemic crippled the sector. Read More: Thailand becomes first Asian country to legalise consumption of marijuana According to data, last year the total number of foreign tourists in Thailand stood at 428,000, a steep fall from the record high of 40 million established in 2019. Analyst reports suggest that over the coming decade the legal cannabis market could be worth anything from $50 billion to $200 billion as countries relax laws around personal and medical use. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Thailand's health minister advises pot-smoking tourists to not visit the country

Sri Lanka's former president, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, has left Singapore, the city-state's immigration office said, after his social visit pass expired.&nbsp;

Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who fled his island nation last month after widespread protests, is expected to land in Thailand and spend some time there before moving on to another Southeast Asian nation.

Following enormous turmoil over his administration's handling of the greatest economic crisis in seven decades and days after tens of thousands of protestors stormed the president's official mansion and office, Rajapaksa fled to Singapore on July 14 and resigned from office shortly after.

Rajapaksa will reportedly return to Sri Lanka in November when his 90-day visa to Thailand expires and as he runs out of options to find temporary refuge in another nation.

Watch: End of the road for Sri Lanka's 'Terminator' President Gotabaya Rajapaksa

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Rajapaksa will be allowed admission into Thailand on humanitarian grounds, and the Thai Prime Minister, Prayut Chan-O-Cha, yesterday assured foreign media that it would only be a brief visit.

In order to get Rajapaksa's permission to take up temporary residence in Thailand, the Sri Lankan government had filed a direct plea on his behalf.

The Sri Lankan administration has been in contact with the governments of Singapore, the Maldives, and now Thailand since Rajapaksa left Colombo last month for the Maldives to make arrangements for Rajapaksa to temporarily stay in those nations.

According to the Sri Lankan newspaper Daily Mirror, only the Air Force jet that took him and his wife from Colombo to Male last month was paid for with state money. The other expenses for the Rajapaksas to depart the nation were covered by him and his son, Manoj Rajapaksa.

The former President's accommodations are being paid for by wealthy businesses thanks to the Rajapaksas' strong contacts abroad.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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Sri Lanka's former president, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, has left Singapore, the city-state's immigration office said, after his social visit pass expired. Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who fled his island nation last month after widespread protests, is expected to land in Thailand and spend some time there before moving on to another Southeast Asian nation.

Sri Lanka's former president, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, has left Singapore, the city-state's immigration office said, after his social visit pass expired. Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who fled his island nation last month after widespread protests, is expected to land in Thailand and spend some time there before moving on to another Southeast Asian nation. Following enormous turmoil over his administration's handling of the greatest economic crisis in seven decades and days after tens of thousands of protestors stormed the president's official mansion and office, Rajapaksa fled to Singapore on July 14 and resigned from office shortly after. Rajapaksa will reportedly return to Sri Lanka in November when his 90-day visa to Thailand expires and as he runs out of options to find temporary refuge in another nation. Watch: End of the road for Sri Lanka's 'Terminator' President Gotabaya Rajapaksa Rajapaksa will be allowed admission into Thailand on humanitarian grounds, and the Thai Prime Minister, Prayut Chan-O-Cha, yesterday assured foreign media that it would only be a brief visit. In order to get Rajapaksa's permission to take up temporary residence in Thailand, the Sri Lankan government had filed a direct plea on his behalf. The Sri Lankan administration has been in contact with the governments of Singapore, the Maldives, and now Thailand since Rajapaksa left Colombo last month for the Maldives to make arrangements for Rajapaksa to temporarily stay in those nations. According to the Sri Lankan newspaper Daily Mirror, only the Air Force jet that took him and his wife from Colombo to Male last month was paid for with state money. The other expenses for the Rajapaksas to depart the nation were covered by him and his son, Manoj Rajapaksa. The former President's accommodations are being paid for by wealthy businesses thanks to the Rajapaksas' strong contacts abroad. (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.

Sri Lanka president on the run: Rajapaksa exits Singapore for Thailand

The Thai foreign ministry's spokeswoman, Tanee Sangrat, said in a statement on Wednesday that the former leader of Sri Lanka, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, will come to Thailand for a brief period of time but has no plans to apply for political asylum there.

Tanee claims that Thailand has received a request for Rajapaksa's entry from the current Sri Lankan government. The former president's diplomatic passport grants him 90 days of visa-free access into Thailand.

In response to a media inquiry regarding the visit of Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Tanee Sangrat provided the following statement: The Thai side received a request for the former President to enter Thailand from the current government of Sri Lanka. The consideration was based on long-standing and cordial ties between the two countries.

He said that "As a holder of a Sri Lankan diplomatic passport, the former President can enter Thailand w/o a visa for 90 days, per the 2013 Agreement on Visa Exemptn betwn Thailand+Sri Lanka. The stay’s temporary w/ aim of onward travel. No political asylum’s been sought".

In the middle of April, Sri Lanka stopped paying its foreign debt of $51 billion. The economy has been devastated, imports have been hindered, and shortages of fuel, medication, and other necessities have resulted from its declining foreign currency.

People throughout the nation are becoming more and more burdened by the skyrocketing cost of living, which increased to a record 60.8 percent in July.

Rajapaksa handed up his resignation letter from Singapore after leaving the nation. Last month, he was succeeded by former prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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The Thai foreign ministry's spokeswoman, Tanee Sangrat, said in a statement on Wednesday that the former leader of Sri Lanka, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, will come to Thailand for a brief period of time but has no plans to apply for political asylum there.

The Thai foreign ministry's spokeswoman, Tanee Sangrat, said in a statement on Wednesday that the former leader of Sri Lanka, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, will come to Thailand for a brief period of time but has no plans to apply for political asylum there. Tanee claims that Thailand has received a request for Rajapaksa's entry from the current Sri Lankan government. The former president's diplomatic passport grants him 90 days of visa-free access into Thailand. In response to a media inquiry regarding the visit of Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Tanee Sangrat provided the following statement: The Thai side received a request for the former President to enter Thailand from the current government of Sri Lanka. The consideration was based on long-standing and cordial ties between the two countries. He said that "As a holder of a Sri Lankan diplomatic passport, the former President can enter Thailand w/o a visa for 90 days, per the 2013 Agreement on Visa Exemptn betwn Thailand+Sri Lanka. The stay’s temporary w/ aim of onward travel. No political asylum’s been sought". In the middle of April, Sri Lanka stopped paying its foreign debt of $51 billion. The economy has been devastated, imports have been hindered, and shortages of fuel, medication, and other necessities have resulted from its declining foreign currency. People throughout the nation are becoming more and more burdened by the skyrocketing cost of living, which increased to a record 60.8 percent in July. Rajapaksa handed up his resignation letter from Singapore after leaving the nation. Last month, he was succeeded by former prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. (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.

Sri Lanka govt asks Thailand to grant entry to Gotabaya Rajapaksa

The Bangkok Post reported that the Thai Senate passed the bill allowing the chemical castration for sex offenders.

With just two abstentions, the bill received the support of 145 senators and now needs to be approved by the house for receiving the royal endorsement.

According to corrections department figures, there were 4,848 who re-offended out of the 16,413 convicted sex offenders released from Thai prisons between 2013 and 2020.

In return for shorter jail time, certain sex offenders deemed at risk of re-offending may be given the option to receive injections that reduce their testosterone levels under the bill.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/thailand-becomes-first-asian-country-to-move-to-decriminalise-marijuana-448264">Also read |&nbsp;Thailand becomes first Asian country to move to decriminalise marijuana</a>

According to the bill, the offenders would be monitored for 10 years and be required to wear electronic monitoring bracelets.

Justice Minister Somsak Thepsuthin said, ''I want this law to pass quickly. I don't want to see news about bad things happening to women again.''

Highlighting that the use of chemical castration would not tackle sex crime, Jaded Chouwilai, director of the Women and Men Progressive Movement Foundation, a non-governmental organisation that addresses sexual violence, said, "Convicts should be rehabilitated by changing their mindset while in prison."

"To use punishment like execution or injected castration reinforces the idea that offenders can no longer be rehabilitated," he added.

Currently, the use of chemical castration is only legal in Poland, South Korea, Russia, Estonia, and some states of the US.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Bangkok Post reported that the Thai Senate passed the bill allowing the chemical castration for sex offenders. With just two abstentions, the bill received the support of 145 senators and now needs to be approved by the house for receiving the royal endorsement.

The Bangkok Post reported that the Thai Senate passed the bill allowing the chemical castration for sex offenders. With just two abstentions, the bill received the support of 145 senators and now needs to be approved by the house for receiving the royal endorsement. According to corrections department figures, there were 4,848 who re-offended out of the 16,413 convicted sex offenders released from Thai prisons between 2013 and 2020. In return for shorter jail time, certain sex offenders deemed at risk of re-offending may be given the option to receive injections that reduce their testosterone levels under the bill. Also read | Thailand becomes first Asian country to move to decriminalise marijuana According to the bill, the offenders would be monitored for 10 years and be required to wear electronic monitoring bracelets. Justice Minister Somsak Thepsuthin said, ''I want this law to pass quickly. I don't want to see news about bad things happening to women again.'' Highlighting that the use of chemical castration would not tackle sex crime, Jaded Chouwilai, director of the Women and Men Progressive Movement Foundation, a non-governmental organisation that addresses sexual violence, said, "Convicts should be rehabilitated by changing their mindset while in prison." "To use punishment like execution or injected castration reinforces the idea that offenders can no longer be rehabilitated," he added. Currently, the use of chemical castration is only legal in Poland, South Korea, Russia, Estonia, and some states of the US. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Thailand: Senate passes bill allowing chemical castration for sex offenders

Meet Filipina Fuschia Anne Ravena, winner of transgender pageant Miss International Queen

For Jiratti Kuttanam,&nbsp;Thailand's relaxation of&nbsp;cannabis&nbsp;restrictions meant one thing above all - a&nbsp;cheaper&nbsp;supply of the products she uses to manage the pain and sickness caused by her breast cancer treatments.

Thailand&nbsp;last week became the first Asian country to legalise the growing and private consumption of marijuana, a move authorities said would boost agriculture by giving farmers a valuable new cash crop.

Jiratti, 42, said she and other&nbsp;patients&nbsp;would also feel the benefits closer to home.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thousands-gather-to-smoke-up-at-thailands-first-legal-cannabis-festival-487790">Thousands gather to 'smoke up' at Thailand's first fully legal cannabis festival</a>

Medical marijuana has been legal there since 2018. But, before the law change, she had to rely on pricy foreign imports. Some&nbsp;patients&nbsp;went to illegal dealers.

Imported&nbsp;cannabis&nbsp;buds used to cost up to 700 baht ($20) per gram, but prices have since halved, Jiratti said.

Watch |&nbsp;Thailand legalises cannabis – What does this mean? Are there restrictions on use?

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"I've been taking&nbsp;cannabis&nbsp;regularly so I don't have to feel pain," she said as she shredded and boiled marijuana leaves to make infused tea, filling her one-bedroom Bangkok apartment with its distinctive smell.

She was diagnosed with advanced stage breast cancer five years ago. Two years later she started using&nbsp;cannabis&nbsp;oil and other products to ease the pain, vomiting, fatigue and anxiety she suffered after chemotherapy.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-giving-away-one-million-marijuana-plants-to-develop-as-cash-crop-486934">Thailand giving away one million marijuana plants to develop as cash crop</a>

A legal, local crop would mean a more reliable supply of those products - a good thing as long as&nbsp;patients&nbsp;know how to use them, she said.

"I think you need education. You need to study how to use it ... the right way. It can be harm(ful). It can be dangerous as well, you know."

Thailand's relaxation of restrictions has not meant a total free-for-all. Last week, new regulations went into effect forbidding public smoking of&nbsp;cannabis&nbsp;as well as its sale to people under 20, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.

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For Jiratti Kuttanam, Thailand's relaxation of cannabis restrictions meant one thing above all - a cheaper supply of the products she uses to manage the pain and sickness caused by her breast cancer treatments.

For Jiratti Kuttanam, Thailand's relaxation of cannabis restrictions meant one thing above all - a cheaper supply of the products she uses to manage the pain and sickness caused by her breast cancer treatments. Thailand last week became the first Asian country to legalise the growing and private consumption of marijuana, a move authorities said would boost agriculture by giving farmers a valuable new cash crop. Jiratti, 42, said she and other patients would also feel the benefits closer to home. Also read | Thousands gather to 'smoke up' at Thailand's first fully legal cannabis festival Medical marijuana has been legal there since 2018. But, before the law change, she had to rely on pricy foreign imports. Some patients went to illegal dealers. Imported cannabis buds used to cost up to 700 baht ($20) per gram, but prices have since halved, Jiratti said. Watch | Thailand legalises cannabis – What does this mean? Are there restrictions on use? "I've been taking cannabis regularly so I don't have to feel pain," she said as she shredded and boiled marijuana leaves to make infused tea, filling her one-bedroom Bangkok apartment with its distinctive smell. She was diagnosed with advanced stage breast cancer five years ago. Two years later she started using cannabis oil and other products to ease the pain, vomiting, fatigue and anxiety she suffered after chemotherapy. Also read |Thailand giving away one million marijuana plants to develop as cash crop A legal, local crop would mean a more reliable supply of those products - a good thing as long as patients know how to use them, she said. "I think you need education. You need to study how to use it ... the right way. It can be harm(ful). It can be dangerous as well, you know." Thailand's relaxation of restrictions has not meant a total free-for-all. Last week, new regulations went into effect forbidding public smoking of cannabis as well as its sale to people under 20, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. 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.

As Thailand greenlights cannabis, patients welcome cheaper supplies

As Covid&nbsp;cases fall, Thailand announced on Friday it would drop rules requiring people to wear masks outdoors and no longer require foreign visitors to register before travel as the kingdom seeks to lure tourists back.&nbsp;

Facemasks have been compulsory in public in Thailand, including outdoors, since mid-2021 when the Delta variant was running rampant. But as the pandemic has subsided, the tourism-dependent kingdom has gradually relaxed covid restrictions in a bid to boost visitor numbers.

Thailand's relaxation on facemasks comes after similar moves by regional peers including Cambodia and Singapore.&nbsp;

Taweesin Visanuyothin, the spokesman for the Thai Covid taskforce, said wearing masks outside would become voluntary, but was still recommended in crowded areas, entertainment venues and on public transport. He said the health ministry would announce further details of the mask relaxation, including when it would come into force.

On July 1, the government will also stop the "Thailand Pass" system, under which foreign tourists had to register and show proof of vaccination and health insurance before they could fly to the kingdom. Visitors will have to carry vaccine certificates or take Covid tests on arrival.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kinder-factory-behind-salmonella-contamination-in-europe-reopening-489078">Kinder factory behind salmonella contamination in Europe reopening</a>

The move is seen as an attempt to bolster the sputtering economy, which has seen growth hammered by the pandemic and living costs rising. There were more than 1.6 million foreign tourist arrivals during the first six months of 2022, with foreign tourist receipts logged at 99.7 billion baht, according to government data.

This compares with around 40 million foreign tourists visiting Thailand in 2019, the last year before the pandemic.&nbsp;

Daily Covid&nbsp;cases have hovered below 3,500 in recent weeks, with the number of deaths registering below 50 a day for a month. More than three-quarters of the population has been jabbed with two vaccine doses, with more than 40 per cent also getting a booster dose.

(with inputs from agencies) 
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As Covid cases fall, Thailand announced on Friday it would drop rules requiring people to wear masks outdoors and no longer require foreign visitors to register before travel as the kingdom seeks to lure tourists back.

As Covid cases fall, Thailand announced on Friday it would drop rules requiring people to wear masks outdoors and no longer require foreign visitors to register before travel as the kingdom seeks to lure tourists back. Facemasks have been compulsory in public in Thailand, including outdoors, since mid-2021 when the Delta variant was running rampant. But as the pandemic has subsided, the tourism-dependent kingdom has gradually relaxed covid restrictions in a bid to boost visitor numbers. Thailand's relaxation on facemasks comes after similar moves by regional peers including Cambodia and Singapore. Taweesin Visanuyothin, the spokesman for the Thai Covid taskforce, said wearing masks outside would become voluntary, but was still recommended in crowded areas, entertainment venues and on public transport. He said the health ministry would announce further details of the mask relaxation, including when it would come into force. On July 1, the government will also stop the "Thailand Pass" system, under which foreign tourists had to register and show proof of vaccination and health insurance before they could fly to the kingdom. Visitors will have to carry vaccine certificates or take Covid tests on arrival. Also Read: Kinder factory behind salmonella contamination in Europe reopening The move is seen as an attempt to bolster the sputtering economy, which has seen growth hammered by the pandemic and living costs rising. There were more than 1.6 million foreign tourist arrivals during the first six months of 2022, with foreign tourist receipts logged at 99.7 billion baht, according to government data. This compares with around 40 million foreign tourists visiting Thailand in 2019, the last year before the pandemic. Daily Covid cases have hovered below 3,500 in recent weeks, with the number of deaths registering below 50 a day for a month. More than three-quarters of the population has been jabbed with two vaccine doses, with more than 40 per cent also getting a booster dose. (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.

COVID-19: Thailand forgoes foreign tourist registration, drops mask rule

Thailand took a step towards marriage equality Wednesday as lawmakers gave initial approval to legalising same-sex unions, prompting celebrations outside the parliament building.

It is a significant landmark in a Buddhist-majority country with a highly visible LGBTQ community but whose members still face major barriers and discrimination.

The legislation must clear several more hurdles before becoming law. If it succeeds, Thailand would be the first country in Southeast Asia to recognise same sex unions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-opposition-files-no-confidence-motion-against-flawed-pm-488416">Thai opposition files no-confidence motion against 'flawed' PM</a>

The lower house approved two bills that would allow same-sex marriages and also two others that would permit civil partnerships.

A committee of lawmakers will now scrutinise the bills in detail and consolidate them into two proposals, to give MPs a choice between backing civil partnerships and full same-sex marriage.

After the vote a small but enthusiastic group of activists celebrated noisily outside parliament, weeping, hugging and waving rainbow flags.

"I am very happy and glad, it is a good sign in Pride month that there are MPs who want equality and vote for the bills," LGBTQ activist Nada Chaiyajit told AFP.

"But there is a long way to go."

Watch |&nbsp;Thailand legalises cannabis – What does this mean? Are there restrictions on use?

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Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of the opposition Move Forward Party which proposed one of the same-sex marriage bills, said the vote should give people hope.

"Today is an answer that politics is possible here in Thailand," Pita told the celebrating activists outside parliament.&nbsp;

"No matter who you are, there is a place for you in this country."

Demands for marriage equality were a theme at Bangkok's Pride parade earlier this month the Thai capital's first such event in nearly 16 years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-giving-away-one-million-marijuana-plants-to-develop-as-cash-crop-486934">Thailand giving away one million marijuana plants to develop as cash crop</a>

Ryan Figueiredo, executive director of LGBT rights campaign group the Equal Asia Foundation, welcomed the vote but warned "there is a lot of work to be done on the ground in terms of moving the needle of public opinion and also talking to parliamentarians."

Figueiredo also urged the Thai parliament to back full marriage.

"Civil partnerships are not equal to marriage equality, it creates an entire different class of people," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"Civil partnerships seem like a consolation prize."

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Thailand took a step towards marriage equality Wednesday as lawmakers gave initial approval to legalising same-sex unions, prompting celebrations outside the parliament building.

Thailand took a step towards marriage equality Wednesday as lawmakers gave initial approval to legalising same-sex unions, prompting celebrations outside the parliament building. It is a significant landmark in a Buddhist-majority country with a highly visible LGBTQ community but whose members still face major barriers and discrimination. The legislation must clear several more hurdles before becoming law. If it succeeds, Thailand would be the first country in Southeast Asia to recognise same sex unions. Also read | Thai opposition files no-confidence motion against 'flawed' PM The lower house approved two bills that would allow same-sex marriages and also two others that would permit civil partnerships. A committee of lawmakers will now scrutinise the bills in detail and consolidate them into two proposals, to give MPs a choice between backing civil partnerships and full same-sex marriage. After the vote a small but enthusiastic group of activists celebrated noisily outside parliament, weeping, hugging and waving rainbow flags. "I am very happy and glad, it is a good sign in Pride month that there are MPs who want equality and vote for the bills," LGBTQ activist Nada Chaiyajit told AFP. "But there is a long way to go." Watch | Thailand legalises cannabis – What does this mean? Are there restrictions on use? Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of the opposition Move Forward Party which proposed one of the same-sex marriage bills, said the vote should give people hope. "Today is an answer that politics is possible here in Thailand," Pita told the celebrating activists outside parliament. "No matter who you are, there is a place for you in this country." Demands for marriage equality were a theme at Bangkok's Pride parade earlier this month the Thai capital's first such event in nearly 16 years. Also read | Thailand giving away one million marijuana plants to develop as cash crop Ryan Figueiredo, executive director of LGBT rights campaign group the Equal Asia Foundation, welcomed the vote but warned "there is a lot of work to be done on the ground in terms of moving the needle of public opinion and also talking to parliamentarians." Figueiredo also urged the Thai parliament to back full marriage. "Civil partnerships are not equal to marriage equality, it creates an entire different class of people," he told AFP. "Civil partnerships seem like a consolation prize." 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 takes step towards same-sex marriage with parliament vote

Thailand's opposition parties on Wednesday filed a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha and 10 cabinet ministers, accusing them of graft, economic mismanagement and of undermining democracy and clinging to power.

The opposition expects the censure debate to take place next month and hopes it will bring down Prayuth's 17-party government. It would be the last confidence vote Prayuth, 68, will face before his term ends in March next year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-giving-away-one-million-marijuana-plants-to-develop-as-cash-crop-486934">Thailand giving away one million marijuana plants to develop as cash crop</a>

Prayuth, a retired general who first came to power in a 2014 coup, has weathered three previous confidence motions since a 2019 election that kept him in power.

"(He) is a leader that has a flawed thinking, likes to cling to power, does not respect the rule of law, lacks morals and failed in managing states affairs," Chonlanan Srikaew, the leader of the opposition bloc, told the house.

Analysts say the government's parliamentary majority of 253 seats verses the opposition's 208 makes it likely Prayuth will prevail.

Watch |&nbsp;Thailand legalises cannabis – What does this mean? Are there restrictions on use?

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Stithorn Thananithichot, director of the Office of Innovation for Democracy at King Prajadhipok's Institute, said Prayuth should survive as his coalition was still unified, while political analyst Sukhum Nualsakul said the motion was aimed more at next year's election than Prayuth's removal.

Others say the administration's popularity has been declining, highlighted by last month Bangkok governor elections that saw pro-government conservative candidates defeated by a former opposition figure.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-becomes-first-asian-country-to-legalise-consumption-of-marijuana-486464">Thailand becomes first Asian country to legalise consumption of marijuana</a>

Government spokesman Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana said had nothing to fear.

"The prime minister is ready to explain to parliament and answers all issues raised by the opposition because the government is confident that it ran the country honestly without corruption that occurred in past governments," Thanakorn said.

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Thailand's opposition parties on Wednesday filed a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha and 10 cabinet ministers, accusing them of graft, economic mismanagement and of undermining democracy and clinging to power.

Thailand's opposition parties on Wednesday filed a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha and 10 cabinet ministers, accusing them of graft, economic mismanagement and of undermining democracy and clinging to power. The opposition expects the censure debate to take place next month and hopes it will bring down Prayuth's 17-party government. It would be the last confidence vote Prayuth, 68, will face before his term ends in March next year. Also read | Thailand giving away one million marijuana plants to develop as cash crop Prayuth, a retired general who first came to power in a 2014 coup, has weathered three previous confidence motions since a 2019 election that kept him in power. "(He) is a leader that has a flawed thinking, likes to cling to power, does not respect the rule of law, lacks morals and failed in managing states affairs," Chonlanan Srikaew, the leader of the opposition bloc, told the house. Analysts say the government's parliamentary majority of 253 seats verses the opposition's 208 makes it likely Prayuth will prevail. Watch | Thailand legalises cannabis – What does this mean? Are there restrictions on use? Stithorn Thananithichot, director of the Office of Innovation for Democracy at King Prajadhipok's Institute, said Prayuth should survive as his coalition was still unified, while political analyst Sukhum Nualsakul said the motion was aimed more at next year's election than Prayuth's removal. Others say the administration's popularity has been declining, highlighted by last month Bangkok governor elections that saw pro-government conservative candidates defeated by a former opposition figure. Also read | Thailand becomes first Asian country to legalise consumption of marijuana Government spokesman Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana said had nothing to fear. "The prime minister is ready to explain to parliament and answers all issues raised by the opposition because the government is confident that it ran the country honestly without corruption that occurred in past governments," Thanakorn said. 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.

Thai opposition files no-confidence motion against 'flawed' PM

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