Latest news with #Thaksin
The Star
2 days ago
- Politics
- The Star
Thai DPM Phumtham cancels Paris trip to monitor three key developments
BANGKOK: Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai (pic) has cancelled his planned trip to Paris next week in order to monitor three key developments involving former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and Thai-Cambodian relations, a source said. The source revealed that Phumtham decided to withdraw from the military meeting and airshow scheduled for June 15–19 in Paris so he could remain in the country to closely follow events occurring on June 12, 13 and 14. On Thursday (June 12), the Medical Council of Thailand is due to meet to decide whether to reaffirm its resolution to punish three doctors who gave opinions that were used as justification for allowing Thaksin to stay at the Police General Hospital for six months instead of serving time in Bangkok Remand Prison. The council had previously resolved to suspend the medical licences of two doctors and issue a warning to a third. However, Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin exercised his right to veto the resolution. This veto means the council must now secure a two-thirds majority vote to reaffirm the decision. On June 13, the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Office is scheduled to begin an inquisitorial process into whether state agencies failed to enforce the court's ruling to imprison Thaksin. The court earlier stated it had reason to believe Thaksin's sentence was not properly carried out, given that he remained at the Police General Hospital for six months before being paroled in February last year. As a result, the court decided to initiate its own inquiry. Meanwhile, the Thai-Cambodian Joint Boundary Committee (JBC) was initially set to meet in Phnom Penh on June 14. However, following the May 28 border skirmish at the Chong Bok Pass in Ubon Ratchathani, Cambodia indicated it might cancel the meeting. If the meeting proceeds, Phumtham will still need to monitor its outcomes to assess whether they serve Thailand's interests in the ongoing border dispute. - The Nation/ANN
Nikkei Asia
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Nikkei Asia
Apple conference, Thaksin court case, Tokyo campaign starts
Welcome to Your Week in Asia. More data related to the ever-shifting trade war will be released Monday, when China publishes its trade figures for May. In the political arena, parties and candidates will begin appealing to voters in Tokyo ahead of the Japanese capital's assembly election, while a court case involving former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra will have ramifications for the Southeast Asian nation's ruling party. Get the best of our coverage of Asia and much more by following us on X, @NikkeiAsia. We are also now on Bluesky. Our handle is @ MONDAY Apple Worldwide Developers Conference Apple's annual event for app developers will double as a chance for the iPhone maker to show off software updates for devices such as the MacBook, iPad and Apple Watch. Attendees will also be keen to hear what the tech giant has in store for artificial intelligence. China trade and inflation data China's trade data for May will be under scrutiny following the trade-war truce with the U.S. in the middle of the month, with both countries rolling back sky-high tariffs on one another. On the same day, the monthly consumer price index, which has been hovering in negative territory since February, will also be announced. Earnings: VinFast TUESDAY Toyota Industries shareholder meeting Toyota Industries holds its annual shareholders meeting. It is a key supplier to Toyota Motor, which has its own shareholder gathering on Thursday. These events will be an opportunity for investors to react to the Toyota group's recent announcement of a takeover bid for Toyota Industries. THURSDAY Hong Kong auto expo Hong Kong hosts an auto and supply chain expo, organized by the mainland's China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, from Thursday through Sunday. The event aims to help at drive the global expansion of the Chinese automotive industry, which is currently gripped by a brutal price war between electric vehicle manufacturers. India inflation India will release data on inflation, which has been inching downward -- in April, it clocked 3.16%, well below the central bank's target of 4%. That trend has encouraged the central bank to cut key lending rates deemed crucial to spurring economic growth after a slowdown. FRIDAY Court rules on Thaksin hospitalization The Thai Supreme Court will hand down a ruling on whether Thaksin's six-month hospitalization after returning from self-exile, which saw him avoid spending a single day in jail, undermined the enforcement of a prison sentence. In the worst-case scenario for Thaksin, he could be jailed if the court rules against him, according to political analysts. Tokyo metropolitan assembly election campaign starts Campaigning for Tokyo's metropolitan assembly election begins ahead of the June 22 vote to fill all 127 seats across 42 districts. The race is seen as a key political bellwether before Japan's upper house election later this summer.
The Star
5 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Policy and tariff talks key to Thai economic recovery, says Thaksin
BANGKOK: Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has outlined Thailand's path to economic recovery, focusing on public policy and tariff negotiations. Thaksin told The Nation on May 30 that the government must urgently deliver key policies to the people in its remaining two years in office, particularly tackling drug abuse and improving the economy, with a focus on reducing the cost of living. Looking ahead to the second half of the this year, Thaksin stressed that the government needs to raise agricultural product prices as a way to directly support the public. However, he acknowledged that the government no longer has the capacity to offer extensive subsidies as it once did, due to high public debt levels and a steep household debt-to-gross domestic product ratio. It's essential that the government addresses the debt issues while simultaneously stimulating the economy, he said. Concerning the 157 billion baht or about US$4.8bil budget initially earmarked for a digital wallet scheme in the 2025 fiscal year, Thaksin explained that changes were now needed. This is largely due to complications arising from US tariffs, prompting the government to reallocate part of the funds to directly support affected citizens, while directing the remainder toward broader economic stimulus efforts. Thaksin reiterated that the digital wallet policy was still on the agenda but would be implemented once economic conditions improve. 'Whatever we promised the people must be delivered, be it the 20 baht flat fare electric train or the digital wallet. It may take time, but it must be done. It's like having a 100 baht debt and only 10 baht in hand – you still need to start paying it back bit by bit,' he said. Speaking about the current economic uncertainty driven by US tariff policies, Thaksin remarked that Thais must fundamentally change how they earn a living. He pointed out that Thailand is facing intense competition, particularly due to a surge of Chinese imports flooding the market and affecting multiple sectors. He noted that the government is currently investigating improperly imported Chinese products, many of which fail to meet quality standards. The illicit imports, he warned, threaten the survival of Thai businesses and must be addressed urgently. As for ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, Thaksin observed that progress may stall temporarily due to a US trade court ruling suspending a previous directive on tariffs by President Donald Trump. However, Thaksin expressed confidence that Trump could appeal the decision and eventually win. 'Therefore, trade talks must continue. Negotiations are happening on several levels, and the current conditions are starting to ease, giving Thailand more room to engage,' he said. When asked about his own involvement in the negotiations, Thaksin clarified that any assistance he offered would be limited to within Thailand, as he had requested permission to travel abroad but was denied. When asked about his greatest economic concern at present, Thaksin identified household debt as the most pressing issue. He noted that out of five million affected households, debt resolution had already been achieved for 500,000. He expressed confidence that resolving the debts of this initial group within the year would help ease the overall burden and allow the public to better adapt. Regarding proposals by members of parliament to write off debts for the poor, Thaksin dismissed the idea. He stated that such an approach would not be adopted. Instead, he said the government plans to use funds from the Financial Institutions Development Fund, along with mechanisms from state-owned specialised financial institutions, to manage and restructure household debt. Full debt forgiveness, he warned, could lead to moral hazard. Thaksin also emphasised the importance of ensuring policies truly reach the people. He pointed to the Interior Ministry as the key ministry responsible for this, but criticised it for not fully engaging at the grassroots level. With just two years remaining in the current government's term, he said it is crucial that the Interior Ministry steps up its efforts to serve the public effectively. — The Nation/ANN
The Star
6 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Coalition crisis forces Thai cabinet shake-up to contain unrest
BANGKOK: Facing growing rifts within the coalition and rising pressure from political allies and rivals alike, the Thai government is being pushed toward a forced Cabinet reshuffle — aimed at defusing tensions, silencing dissent, and regaining control before the situation spirals further. Following the first reading of the 2026 Budget Bill on May 31, speculation over a Cabinet reshuffle has resurfaced—both within political circles and among the public. A key factor fuelling the discussion is the stance of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, widely regarded by some as the 'real PM.' Thaksin has reportedly set his sights on reclaiming the Ministry of Interior from the Bhumjaithai Party, currently overseen by its leader Anutin Charnvirakul, who also serves as Deputy Prime Minister. Thaksin made no secret of his dissatisfaction, stating that under Anutin, the Interior Ministry has underperformed. He emphasised that effective implementation of government policy hinges on the Interior Ministry's machinery. If the Pheu Thai Party is to successfully deliver on its agenda, it must directly oversee the ministry. 'The Interior Ministry is crucial to delivering policy to the people. Right now, it's falling short. With only two years left, the ministry must step up,' Thaksin declared. Despite these pointed remarks, Thaksin expressed confidence that Bhumjaithai would remain part of the ruling coalition. 'I think we can work it out. I don't believe they'll leave. I wouldn't want them to. But if they feel they can't stay, that's their decision—we can't control that.' However, attempting to wrest control from the so-called 'Blue Network' is no easy feat. With 69 seats in Parliament, Bhumjaithai is the second-largest party in the coalition, making any reshuffle a politically sensitive move. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has opted for a moderate approach. Though the possibility of a reshuffle has been raised repeatedly, she continues to tread carefully, choosing restraint over confrontation in order to maintain coalition stability. Even amid internal frustrations, including her candid admission, 'I'm tired, Uncle,' Paetongtarn remains focused on preserving unity and avoiding a political rupture. As the political battle between the 'Red' and 'Blue' factions intensifies, the controversial Senate vote collusion case continues to unfold, drawing in an expanding web of players, both in the spotlight and behind the scenes. Several figures aligned with the Blue camp have already been summoned by investigators from the Election Commission and the DSI, and sources suggest that a sixth wave of summonses may soon include high-profile political names. In this high-stakes climate, Paetongtarn finds herself with limited room to manoeuvre. Her commitment to national reconciliation could backfire if she continues to delay the long-anticipated Cabinet reshuffle, potentially giving the Blue camp even more leverage. Observers have noted Paetongtarn's cautious responses when grilled by the media on this issue. The Prime Minister has consistently downplayed the timing of any Cabinet changes and sidestepped questions about potential ministry swaps within the ruling coalition. However, in a recent interview, she appeared less definitive. When asked whether ministerial portfolios might be exchanged, she responded vaguely: 'Anything is possible. Just like during the election, I always said anything could happen, and things often turn out in ways we never planned. So this time, it could be the same.' Previously, Paetongtarn had indicated a Cabinet reshuffle would take place around the one-year mark of her administration, expected in early September. But with just three months to go, political pressure is mounting, and that timeline may no longer hold. Rumours are now circulating that top government figures have begun quietly signalling coalition partners to brace for changes. Ministerial quotas—both senior and junior—may be reshuffled entirely, especially as the ruling Pheu Thai Party intensifies its push to reclaim the Ministry of Interior from coalition partner Bhumjaithai. Party patriarch Thaksin and key Pheu Thai strategists see the Interior Ministry as essential for translating policy into tangible results. Their focus includes a tougher anti-drug campaign, which must reach down to the village level, and major economic stimulus packages to be funnelled through grassroots initiatives like the Village Fund. Among those tipped to take over as Interior Minister is Prasert Chantararuangthong, currently Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society. Political insiders see him as the frontrunner to become the next Interior Minister. To prevent Bhumjaithai from walking away from the coalition, the Thaksin–Paetongtarn axis may be forced to offer a top-tier ministry in exchange. Sources suggest the final outcome hinges on whether key "Blue Network" figures within Bhumjaithai find the offer satisfactory. Several formulas are reportedly on the table. One involves a straight swap: a Grade-A ministry in exchange for the Interior Ministry. Another scenario proposes a two-for-two deal, with Commerce and Tourism & Sports Ministries offered in exchange for Interior and Labour Ministries—a strategic package aimed at securing Bhumjaithai's cooperation. Still, Pheu Thai isn't placing all its bets on a peaceful swap. A backup plan is reportedly in place in case Bhumjaithai opts to exit the coalition. In that event, Pheu Thai may turn to the opposition for support—particularly Palang Pracharath Party, led by Gen Prawit Wongsuwan, who may be asked to bolster the government's parliamentary base. Meanwhile, internal rifts are also emerging in the United Thai Nation Party (UTN). Deputy Commerce Minister Suchart Chomklin, known as a key figure within the party's 'Seh Heng faction,' has been actively rallying support, with reports suggesting several UTN MPs are preparing to defect to a newly emerging political vehicle, the New Opportunity Party. At the heart of the discord is party leader and Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, whose leadership style has come under growing scrutiny. Some MPs have openly called for a more approachable, inclusive party management approach. However, not all high-profile names linked to the defection rumours are on board. Prominent UTN figures like Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana and Jirawut Singthothong have publicly denied any intention of switching parties, hinting that the campaign led by Seh Heng's group may have overreached in claiming names. In fact, insiders say tensions have flared over a recent dinner meeting that was portrayed in the media as a faction-building session. Some attendees are said to be frustrated after photos were leaked, suggesting formal alignment with the 'Team Heng' initiative, when in reality, the meeting had been intended as an informal discussion. For Seh Heng, the stakes are high. A successful bid could land him a full Cabinet seat. A failed one could see him ousted from his current role as Deputy Minister. With Pirapan known to hold grudges, this is shaping up to be a zero-sum game. The attempted shake-up of Pirapan's leadership, strategically timed with the broader Cabinet reshuffle, is seen by some as an aggressive move not just for a promotion, but possibly a full-scale attempt to remove Pirapan from the political stage altogether. Some observers believe this push may be encouraged by a powerful figure behind the scenes. The growing pressure on Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who had originally planned the reshuffle for September (marking her first year in office), may now force her to reconsider the timeline. Sources suggest she may aim to resolve the coalition tensions—and finalise the Cabinet reshuffle—by the end of June. - The Nation/ANN
The Star
28-05-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Thaksin declares war on drugs again, vows community scans for pushers
BANGKOK: Forner Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, whose 2003 'War on Drugs' policy led to over 2,800 extrajudicial killings, declared a new war on drugs on Tuesday (May 27). This time, he vowed to scan communities for drug pushers on behalf of the Interior Minister and the national police chief. Thaksin announced the campaign during a special speech at the Office of the Narcotics Control Board on the topic 'Narcotics, transborder crimes, attitude and challenges for sustainable solutions.' He said he would seek permission from his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, to check communities for drug sellers. The findings would be reported to the Interior Minister and the national police chief for further action as part of the campaign. Thaksin also highlighted the success of his 2003 drug war, recalling how government agencies were ordered to scan 'every square inch' for drug trafficking to eliminate the trade. The 2003 campaign is believed to have resulted in the deaths of over 2,800 people within three months. Although initially claimed to be due to drug turf wars, a 2007 government investigation found that more than half of those killed had no links to drug offences. During his speech, Thaksin stressed the need for government agencies to change their attitudes and recognise drug trafficking as a national threat to current and future generations. He urged police and Interior Ministry officials to work together rather than acting separately in the fight against drugs. Thaksin criticised the presence of too many agencies responsible for fighting drugs, suggesting some merely seek suppression budgets without effectively enforcing laws. He identified key agencies in charge of drug suppression as police, soldiers, customs officials, and Interior Ministry officials. Thaksin declares war on drugs again, vows community scans for pushers Thaksin blamed corrupt customs officials for failing to stop the smuggling of precursor chemicals used to make methamphetamine. These chemicals are shipped by sea and then transported to Myanmar's Shan state, controlled by the United Wa State Army (UWSA). He accused the UWSA of being responsible for the influx of drugs into Thailand. Thaksin boasted good relations with Myanmar's junta leader General Min Aung Hlaing and the Laotian Prime Minister, claiming he could seek their cooperation to halt drug shipments into Thailand. However, he pointed out Myanmar's lack of control over Shan state, stating Thailand must handle the war on drugs independently. 'There must be internationally acceptable ways for us to urgently tackle drug manufacturers,' Thaksin said. He added the Thai Foreign Minister would soon discuss measures with Myanmar to suppress the UWSA. Thaksin stated, 'We should not have mercy on the enemy,' referring to drug traffickers. He highlighted the Mekong River as a key smuggling route and urged authorities to intercept shipments by all means, aiming to make 'every village a white village again.' Thaksin urged the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) to improve efficiency in drug suppression and southern insurgency operations, warning he would propose dissolving the agency if it fails. 'The ISOC must have a role or it should be dissolved. Otherwise, its budget of over 7 billion baht would be wasted,' he said. He suggested using part of the 157 billion baht central emergency fund for the drug war and to establish drug rehabilitation centres across districts. Thaksin argued that people would accept the suspension of 10,000-baht handouts if the government effectively suppressed drug trafficking. Thaksin called on the Education Ministry to improve curricula, teaching children from kindergarten about the dangers of drug abuse. He also recommended involving the armed forces to secure borders against smuggling of drugs, weapons, and oil. Believing major drug bosses have fled to neighbouring countries, Thaksin stressed the need to investigate pushers in villages and link them to bosses. He urged authorities to seize traffickers' assets and identify the kingpins. 'Nothing under the sun is impossible for Thai police, and they must also receive support from the Interior Ministry,' Thaksin concluded. - The Straits Times/ANN
