Thailand's struggle for democracy in May has many tragic chapters, including the May 1992 uprising known as 'Pheung Thamin' (Black May) and May 2010 called '99 Corpses'—both recorded as dark moments in history marked by massive loss of life and blood spilled on the streets. The authorities and governments responsible for these two events will be remembered by the people forever, unforgettably.

The 1992 incident stemmed from a military coup that toppled Prime Minister Chatichai Choonhavan's government in February 1991. The coup leader then became Prime Minister himself, breaking his promise not to do so. This sparked massive protests against the transfer of power, leading to a brutal crackdown on May 17, 1992, that killed over 40 people. General Suchinda Kraprayoon resigned and granted himself amnesty.

Following May 1992's bloodshed, authorities made reforms, including investigating the violence, dismissing some military officers, amending the constitution to require the PM be elected from parliament, and establishing riot police with shields, batons, and tear gas instead of deploying armed soldiers.

Eighteen years later, on May 10-19, 2010, the military again dispersed red-shirt protesters, this time claiming they included terrorists and using live ammunition. The crackdown killed 99 people—worse than even the 1976 Thammasat massacre.

The red-shirts were protesting Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva's government, which they viewed as illegitimate, having come to power through a military coup and negotiated deal rather than winning elections. They demanded parliament dissolve and new elections be held.

Whether May 1992 or May 2010, both saw bloody massacres. The people will never forget the authorities responsible for these tragedies and will demand accountability forever.

SA KAEO — First Army Region commander Lt. Gen. Worayot Luangsuwan visited Sa Kaeo province on May 18 to inspect combat readiness and annual military exercises along the Thai-Cambodian border, reaffirming the army's preparedness to protect national sovereignty and respond to all forms of threats.

The inspection covered training exercises and combat readiness assessments of the 2nd Infantry Division, King's Guard, at the 2nd Infantry Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, King's Guard, in Muang and Watthana Nakhon districts.

During the visit, Worayot observed battlefield readiness drills, met troops and distributed morale-boosting supplies. He praised soldiers for their commitment and stressed the importance of maintaining training standards, adapting to modern technology and improving battlefield survival capabilities.

The commander also highlighted lessons drawn from real combat situations, including the use of drones, mine-clearing operations, assaults on fortified positions and information warfare.

According to the army, the exercises are aimed at improving joint operational capability, testing battlefield systems and updating contingency plans to address future threats.

The military said the drills also assessed troop readiness, weapons systems and operational capabilities in missions involving border security, suppression of illegal activities and protection of civilians living along the frontier.

Mambo Yurkarnn, the eldest son of Sam Yuranant, has surprised his girlfriend with a marriage proposal in a touching family moment. Mambo Yurkarnn got down on one knee to propose to his girlfriend with the caption "Will you marry me?" His mother expressed her joy and delight at the proposal, calling it absolutely lovely. The wedding card indicates the auspicious wedding date is June 27, 2026.

Pesto is a term many know as Italian pesto sauce, featuring a vibrant green color, distinctive aroma, and a perfectly balanced savory-salty flavor.

Similarly, PESTO – Modern Handcrafted Osteria Sukhumvit 31 is an Italian restaurant located at the heart of the city on Sukhumvit 31, and it captures this name's essence beautifully.

Today we're bringing you to Pesto restaurant. If you love Italian food, pasta, pizza, and salads, rush over to check out this review because every single menu item here is truly worth eating.

What's even better, the chef here is "Thanisorn Sinchinsuk" or "Chef Nai," who graduated from the world-renowned culinary institute Le Cordon Bleu.

Deep Fried Calamari with Tartar Sauce

Let's start with an appetizer: Deep Fried Calamari with Tartar Sauce—Italian-style battered and fried squid. Chef Nai explains that the squid comes directly from Surat Thani Province, famous for its freshness and natural sweet flavor. When coated with the restaurant's specially formulated light batter that maintains a crispy exterior and tender interior, this dish is an absolute delight.

Proosciutto with Ventriciana and Parmigiano

Next is Prosciutto with Ventriciana and Parmigiano, featuring aged Parma ham that's been cured for as long as 24 months from Italy, served alongside Parmigiano cheese that adds a savory richness. This dish pairs exceptionally well with wine.

Wild Rocket Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Salad lovers will appreciate the Wild Rocket Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette—arugula drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette that provides a sweet-tart flavor, with saltiness from Parma ham, topped with cheese that complements everything beautifully.

Sourdough Pizza Mushroom and Italian Sausage

Here comes the restaurant's highlight: Sourdough Pizza Mushroom and Italian Sausage. This sourdough base pizza is truly impressive from the first bite, and importantly, it's not overly heavy. Everyone should definitely try this dish.

Fettuccine Pesto Sauce

Next up is the signature pasta dish: Fettuccine Pesto Sauce. Fettuccine noodles tossed with pesto sauce made from basil combined with Thai basil to enhance the aroma, topped with cheese—this is genuinely delightful.

Beef Lasagna

This is the restaurant's best-selling dish: Beef Lasagna, a signature menu item. The ragù sauce is slow-cooked for approximately one day to fully infuse the meat. Between the layers are béchamel sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmigiano cheese layered throughout. This dish is absolutely rich, perfectly balanced, and beautifully executed.

BBQ Pork Rib

Moving on to BBQ Pork Rib, marinated pork ribs where Chef Nai uses organic coffee as a component in the barbecue sauce marinade. The pork is incredibly tender, practically melting in your mouth, and the barbecue sauce flavor is excellent. Another must-try dish.

Tiramisu

Finishing with something sweet: even when you're full, dessert must be included. Tiramisu with its fragrant, sweet, and delicate flavor, accompanied by silky-smooth Panna Cotta and strawberry sauce that cuts through the sweetness perfectly.

Panna Cotta

"When you come here, you'll experience a new dining experience. The menu changes regularly so our customers always enjoy something fresh. Plus, the food prices here are very reasonable," Chef Nai shares.

Currently, PESTO has three branches: PESTO – Modern Handcrafted Osteria Sukhumvit 31: Open daily, 11:00 AM-10:00 PM PESTO – Pasta & Espresso Osteria Sukhumvit 87: Open daily, 11:00 AM-10:00 PM PESTO – Modern Handcrafted Osteria Rama 9: Open daily

Prime Minister Anuthon Charnvirakul responded sharply to accusations from Pol. Gen. Sereepitakkul Temiywes, a Serirung Thai Party list MP who plans to file a constitutional court petition questioning the PM's qualifications and ethics over the Khao Kradong land seizure case. Speaking at Government House on May 18 at 4:55 PM, Anuthon dismissed the ethics complaint, sarcastically suggesting that "manufacturing water" would also violate ethics standards. When asked if his comments referred to someone who might go to Buri Ram, Anuthon questioned why anyone would need to do so, casually offering to take the person out for a meal if he had free time.

When asked if he was concerned about the case's impact on him, Anuthon turned the question back on reporters, stating he had no involvement. He explained his registered residence in Buri Ram was a constitutional requirement for MPs and was established when he was leading the Phum Jai Thai Party. He emphasized he had never owned land or conducted business in Buri Ram.

Anuthon stated he was unsure what specific charges Sereepitakkul was bringing but could not prevent anyone from suing him. He noted the matter was now in court and would proceed according to judicial process. When asked about countersuit possibilities, Anuthon criticized Sereepitakkul, who is 80 years old, for suddenly causing trouble. He characterized this as typical old police intimidation tactics and expressed confusion about what might have upset the general, suggesting they previously got along well and questioning what offense he may have committed.

The State Railway of Thailand is taking action against the train driver and track supervisor involved in the recent collision, with preliminary dismissals from civil service positions and an investigation committee established to examine multiple individuals.

On May 18, 2025, Deputy Transport Minister Siripong Angskul discussed the collision between a State Railway train and a Bangkok Mass Transit Authority bus. The Transport Ministry is conducting comprehensive fact-checking on driver standards, track control systems, warning systems, and substance testing procedures to determine the accident's true cause, with preliminary results expected by Wednesday.

Initial reports show the train driver possessed an existing locomotive license but had not yet verified identity for a new license under the Rail Transport Act, which took effect on March 27, 2025, during its 120-day transition period. The State Railway's internal license and the Rail Transport Authority's permit operate separately. Previously, the State Railway used its own system, but the new law brought additional oversight by the Rail Transport Authority, creating a system transition. However, Deputy Minister Siripong emphasized this is not an excuse—even during the legal grace period, accountability and investigation remain necessary.

Regarding substance and alcohol testing, alcohol checks are routinely conducted before each duty, while drug screening uses random testing rounds. Screen tests for the train driver showed positive results across all substances, though specific drug types have not been disclosed as results are preliminary. It remains unclear whether the driver admits to drug use, pending police investigation and interrogation.

The driver and track supervisor provided conflicting statements, requiring full investigation before proceeding. Both have been preliminarily dismissed from civil service pending investigation transparency, with an investigation committee formed to examine multiple parties. Progress reports are due by May 20, 2025.

The Transport Ministry is implementing short-term solutions by improving personnel management and reducing human error, while long-term strategies will incorporate technology to reduce risk, requiring significant budget allocation and accelerated infrastructure projects. The Prime Minister has directed all agencies to implement systematic management despite bureaucratic constraints.

Regarding freight train operations, the Transport Ministry is considering restricting heavy cargo train schedules during daytime hours, similar to land transport regulations, as freight trains require longer braking distances and higher operational skill levels. Night-time operations will be emphasized.