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National

Prachachat Party Annual Meeting 2569: Thawee Sodsong Emphasizes People-Centered Strategy

Prachachat Party leader Thawee Sodsong pledged to prioritize citizens' welfare at the party's annual meeting in Pattani, vowing to leverage political mechanisms for policies addressing inequality in the southern border provinces despite the

26 Apr Khaosod

The Prachachat Party held its first ordinary general meeting of 2569 on April 26 at Al-Imam Al-Nawawi Hall of Prince of Songkla University's Islamic Studies Faculty in Pattani province. Former Justice Minister Thawee Sodsong, serving as party leader and list MP, presided over the meeting alongside party officials including Sugarno Mata (Yala Zone 2 Secretary-General), Sulaiman Buanapina (Yala Zone 1), Abdulayee Samang (Yala Zone 3), and Kamlasak Livameuea (Narathiwat Zone 5).

Thawee emphasized that political parties must adapt to social changes and that true democracy goes beyond election day—it requires continuously improving citizens' quality of life. Though the Prachachat Party has only five MPs, Thawee pledged to use all available political mechanisms to push forward promised policies addressing real citizen needs, particularly in areas facing inequality in economics, security, and education.

The meeting marked the party's first assembly since the recent elections, aimed at setting work direction, strategy, and political analysis while increasing female representation in party leadership. An afternoon panel discussion on the party's future direction in southern border provinces will be held, with former Prime Minister's Advisor Wanmuhammadnor Mata scheduled to deliver closing remarks at 3 p.m.

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National

Nattapong Says Blue Government Appears Strong But Is Fragile, Points to Reasons It Won't Survive Full Term

Democrat Party leader Nattapong warns that Thailand's government appears stable externally but faces internal fragility from competing interest groups that could prevent it from completing its full four-year term. He argues future crises wi

26 Apr Khaosod

At 11:50 AM on April 26, 2025, at Maple Hotel in Bangkok's Bangna area, Nattapong Rueangpanya, Democrat Party list MP and party leader, gave an interview assessing whether Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's government will complete its full four-year term and what obstacles could lead to its downfall. While the government appears strong externally with stability in multiple areas, analysts suggest influences from the Senate or independent organizations may be at play, but beneath that veneer lies internal fragility.

According to Nattapong, the government's fragility stems from various power factions bound together—including parties absorbed into Pheu Thai Party, improper use of power by independent organizations, business groups providing support, and civil servants benefiting covertly from the blue government—all interconnected by mutual interests. This is evident from the oil crisis, which reveals the government's internal weakness. Despite having technocrat ministers, some dare not speak out on certain issues such as the Land Bridge project.

"Therefore, the government's internal fragility, bound by these interest groups, means that future crises will expose how this seemingly strong government actually has internal weaknesses. It's the responsibility of opposition parties and the Democrat Party to show the public that under such a government, Thai society becomes even more fragile, and the government itself won't be able to survive," Nattapong stated.

When asked about the Democrat Party collecting names of parliamentarians to establish an independent committee of the Supreme Court to investigate the National Anti-Corruption Commission, Nattapong said coalition opposition parties and some senators have joined them, confirming he is not working alone. When asked who he has already spoken with, Nattapong said there have been behind-the-scenes conversations with all sections, but since there is no formal resolution yet, revealing names prematurely would be discourteous. He assured that behind-the-scenes discussions have taken place and is confident the complete list of names will be secured.

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Community

Entertainment Couple Pooklook and Mike Cook Meals for Hundreds of Stray Dogs on Birthday Celebration

Entertainment couple Pooklook and Mike Patradej cooked meals for nearly 500 stray dogs to celebrate Mike's birthday, personally preparing meat and vegetables by hand at their location in Pathum Thani.

26 Apr Khaosod

A birthday celebration with a difference, but one full of meaning for entertainment couple Pooklook Fon Thip and Mike Patradej, who transformed this special day into a day of giving by helping hundreds of stray dogs.

The couple personally prepared the meals themselves. They teamed up to shop for ingredients, purchasing dozens of kilograms of meat and fresh vegetables before returning to the kitchen to cook everything by hand. They prepared special meals for nearly 500 stray dogs to ensure all of them had full bellies.

Pooklook revealed that since this occasion marked Mike's birthday, they intentionally wanted to do something good together. She acknowledged that the process took considerable time from shopping to cooking. She emphasized that besides food, water is equally important, especially during hot weather. After their previous experience helping strays, she said it made her want to help even more.

The couple is calling on kind-hearted people to share food and water with stray dogs. Pooklook said: "We hope compassionate people will come feed and give water to the dogs. Next month, I'll need surgery, but we can continue visiting them. Anyone interested in helping, the location is: 4 Soi Khlong Sam 10/3, Soi Phenpak, Khlong Sam Subdistrict, Khlong Luang District, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand. Contact Khun Pa at: 085-109-5965"

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National

Wall Street Journal Stands by 'Scambodia' Reference Despite Cambodia's Protests

The Wall Street Journal is standing firm on its controversial "Scambodia" reference despite strong objections from Cambodian officials and the public. The article alleges that Cambodia has become a global cybercrime hub generating up to $19 billion annually, with Information Minister Neth Pheaktra formally requesting the outlet remove the inflammatory terminology. The newspaper has refused to alter or remove the article, maintaining its reporting.

26 Apr Khaosod

Nearly a week after The Wall Street Journal published an article titled "How Cybercrime Became a Leading Industry in 'Scambodia,'" Cambodian officials and members of the public continue to voice anger, urging the US outlet to remove the term.

The report described Cambodia as a major hub for global cybercrime, alleging that criminal syndicates have corrupted officials, trafficked and exploited workers, and defrauded victims worldwide.

According to The Wall Street Journal, a 2025 expert report cited by US authorities estimated that scam operations in Cambodia generate up to $19 billion annually — equivalent to nearly 40% of the country's GDP — surpassing its largest legitimate sector, garment manufacturing.

The global impact is also significant. Americans alone lost about $10 billion to online scams linked to Southeast Asia in 2024, marking a sharp year-on-year increase, the report said.

Cambodia's Information Minister Neth Pheaktra sent a letter to the newspaper's editor rejecting the term "Scambodia" and stressing that the government is committed to tackling scam networks.

The letter was later published on the newspaper's website. However, The Wall Street Journal has neither removed the article nor altered the reference to "Scambodia."

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Regional

Pattaya ladyboy duo lures Indian tourist, steals 100,000 baht gold necklace

An Indian tourist reported losing a 100,000-baht gold necklace to two transgender women who approached him on Pattaya Beach Road early April 26, police said.

26 Apr Khaosod

An Indian tourist has filed a police complaint after allegedly being robbed of a gold necklace worth more than 100,000 baht by a group of transgender women on Pattaya beach.

At 01:30 on April 26, 2026, 36-year-old Rishav Singh reported the incident to police at Pattaya City Police Station after returning to his hotel and discovering his necklace missing.

The theft allegedly occurred on the night of April 25 along Pattaya Beach Road, opposite a shopping centre in the Nong Prue area of Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province.

Singh said he had been on a five-day trip to Pattaya and visited entertainment venues on Walking Street in South Pattaya around 04:00 before walking back to his hotel along the beachfront road.

He reported that while passing the beach area opposite a shopping centre, two transgender women approached him, struck up a conversation, acted friendly, and hugged him. Singh said he felt suspicious and tried to push them away.

After returning to his hotel, he discovered his gold necklace missing, valued at approximately 300,000 Indian rupees, or around 100,000 baht.

Police confirmed that the complaint has been recorded as evidence and investigators have been instructed to review CCTV footage from the area. Officers are also compiling records of individuals involved in similar incidents for identification purposes. If a match is found, authorities said they will pursue legal action.

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National

Theerayut Calls for Internal Party Discussions to End, Emphasizes Unity After Piyabutr-Wiroj Criticism

Pheu Thai Party leader Nattapong Rueangpanya called for an end to internal party disputes, urging members to resolve disagreements privately rather than publicly criticize leadership at a Bangkok hotel event on April 26.

26 Apr Khaosod

At 11:50 AM on April 26, 2025, at the Maple Hotel in Bangkok, Nattapong Rueangpanya, list-based MP and leader of the Pheu Thai Party, spoke about reducing the role of the "Big House" within the party. He stated that political work creating change must be open, with public interest and national goals as the foundation. Therefore, the candidate selection process should be expedited so they can serve the public fully. While background checks are necessary, the party does not solely judge by surname. He noted that some MPs and party executives may share surnames with leaders of other political parties but possess strong ideology and volunteer commitment to creating change.

"Regardless of surname, as long as they decide to join Pheu Thai to work according to party ideology, we must give them a chance and let constituents decide," Nattapong said. "The faster we nominate and decide, the sooner they can demonstrate their abilities outside election season, showing their true intentions."

When asked about Deputy Party Leader Wirayut Kanchuchutcharand's comments that prominent individuals collapse processes, Nattapong said we should look at the bigger picture. A few groups are attempting to control public freedoms and state power through various channels, including questioning the NACC, dissolving parties, and corruption.

"Small daily disagreements, especially within the party, should be discussed internally," Nattapong stated. "Once consensus is reached on certain matters, internal criticism shouldn't be voiced publicly as it undermines party unity. This was settled three days ago."

Regarding former Future Forward Secretary-General Piyabutr Saengkanokkul's criticism of Pheu Thai, Nattapong said he doesn't believe such criticism will shake the party. He emphasized looking at the public's perspective. If all parties receive equal criticism, public interest will be served. Nattapong noted that Piyabutr is no longer a party member and has full freedom to criticize, unlike party members bound by discipline.

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National

No Major Shake-up: Natthapon Remains Party Leader as Picharn Takes Secretary-General Post, Aiming for Seamless Coordination Between Local and Parliamentary Work

Pheu Thai Party appointed Picharn Chaowapatvanont as secretary-general on April 26, with party leader Natthapon remaining in position, aiming to coordinate parliamentary and grassroots work to solve public issues as an opposition party.

26 Apr Khaosod

At 11:50 a.m. on April 26, 2026, at Maple Hotel in Bangkok, Natthapon Rueangpanya, party list MP and Pheu Thai Party leader, announced that the party's annual general assembly approved Picharn Chaowapatvanont as party secretary-general. Suthawan Subban Na Ayutthaya, former Nakhon Pathom MP, was appointed to the party executive committee, while Phakamon Nunanant, party list MP, became party spokesman. All confirmed their readiness to work full-time.

Picharn stated that as the new secretary-general, he would implement decisions from party meetings and prioritize human resource development across all party units. He emphasized that all party activities should benefit the people. He called for coordination between parliamentarians, provincial teams, and networks to work seamlessly both inside and outside parliament, using legal knowledge and parliamentary mechanisms to solve people's problems as an opposition party.

When asked about accelerating MP candidate selection and addressing qualification issues, Picharn explained that candidates who could be quickly endorsed would have stronger teams and greater capacity to work in their areas, paving the way toward elections.

Regarding pressure about accepting the secretary-general position—described as the party's brain—Picharn said pressure was irrelevant; rather, when the party gave him their trust, he had a duty to drive objectives. He saw the current judicial crisis as an opportunity to work effectively through the ten MPs not under suspension orders.

On preventing internal politics and position-grabbing, Picharn said party units must understand their shared goal: improving people's lives and creating a better Thailand. If everyone focused on that objective, all obstacles and conflicts could be overcome.

After the announcement, Pheu Thai supporters presented a "Conquer Evil—People's Version" talisman and oranges in a transparent box to Natthapon and Picharn. When reporters asked if the oranges resembled those in Prime Minister Anutthin Charnvirakul's office at Government House, Natthapon only smiled and laughed without answering.

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Breaking

Doctor and High-Society Woman File Complaint Against Famous Brand Name Shop Owner for Embezzling Consignment Deposits for Luxury Goods Sales

A prominent socialite and doctor joined other victims in filing a police complaint against a husband-and-wife luxury goods shop owners accused of embezzling millions of baht in consignment deposits and personal loans over several years.

26 Apr Khaosod

On April 26, 2569, Ms. Pathom Bundech, a well-known high-society celebrity and daughter of former Senate member Prasangsak Bundech, led a group of victims from various professions—doctors, dentists, and prominent businesspeople—to meet with police officials to file a complaint against Ms. Nate and Mr. Pong (aliases), a husband-and-wife duo who own a famous online luxury brand shop. The victims allege they were victimized by an elaborate, years-long scheme known locally as "complete swindling."

Initially, the victims consigned designer items such as watches, handbags, and jewelry to the shop and received payment normally. However, the couple later began using manipulative tactics, borrowing money repeatedly and accepting high-end consignment items but failing to remit payments when sold. Customers had transferred funds into the couple's bank account, yet the defendants fabricated stories about items going missing or being seized by customs, despite having original receipts from online retailers. Some items were later discovered being pawned and resold online. The couple also forged payment transfer receipts.

Ms. Pathom reported that her personal items involved in the scheme include Rolex Land Dweller 40 and Rolex Sprite watches belonging to her and her father, totaling 16 items worth over 6 million baht. Additionally, the couple fraudulently borrowed nearly 10 million baht. In another case, they received nearly 2 million baht for merchandise orders but claimed the account was frozen, when in fact they spent the money personally, leaving only 7 baht in the account.

Another victim, Dr. Tib, stated she met the couple through Instagram brand sales, and Ms. Nate built rapport by delivering items to her workplace. When Dr. Tib needed to liquidate her luxury collection—including Hermès bags, jewelry, and designer clothing—she consigned over 101 pieces to Ms. Nate, who promised to photograph items and add her shop name before returning them. Instead, Ms. Nate refused to return the items or post them for sale.

When pressed, she made excuses, claiming she had consigned the items to a foreign customer. By mid-2567, Ms. Nate claimed the bags had been stolen and offered a 4.6 million baht loan agreement as partial compensation, promising to return remaining items. However, she only paid interest, avoided principal repayment, and repeatedly used the excuse of "insufficient liquidity" to trick Dr. Tib into giving her another 400,000 baht under the pretense of investing in inventory, promising to return profits. The truth eventually emerged when Dr. Tib discovered the deception.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai Sports Authority Director Kongsakd Confident Thailand Will Hit Gold Medal Target Despite Tougher Competition at Asian Beach Games

Dr. Kongsakd Yodmani, Director of Thailand's Sports Authority, says competing nations at the Asian Beach Games have strengthened significantly, but remains confident Thailand will achieve its gold medal target. Midway through the 6th Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China, Thailand has secured gold medals in beach athletics and rowing, along with multiple silver and bronze medals. The SAT aims for 15 gold medals total and believes athletes in sports like Sepak Takraw and other disciplines will deliver strong performances in the second half of competition.

26 Apr Khaosod

Dr. Kongsakd Yodmani, Director of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), acknowledged that competing nations at the Asian Beach Games have developed significantly, making the competition tougher for Thailand, though he remains confident the country will achieve its gold medal target. He praised Thai athletes' performance at the midway point of the 6th Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China, noting commendable achievements including gold medals in beach athletics from sprinters Phuripol Bunsorn (men's 60m), Jiraphachara Khaanontakta (women's 60m), and the women's 4x60m relay, as well as a gold in men's 200m canoe racing where Thailand defeated the host Chinese team. The team has also secured multiple silver and bronze medals. "I must commend our athletes for their successful medal hauls, particularly in athletics where we've claimed golds in the highlighted sprint and relay events," Kongsakd stated. "However, we believe many other sports will perform well in the second half of competition, so let's keep supporting our athletes until the final day." He acknowledged the original target of 15 gold medals remains the goal, though some sports fell short due to significantly strengthened competition from athletes across Asia. The SAT director noted that Sepak Takraw, where Thailand has world champion-caliber athletes, remains a strong prospect. He emphasized that the investment in training camps has proven worthwhile, as Thai athletes gain invaluable competitive experience and insight into Asian standards, which will benefit their development toward the Asian Games and Olympics. The 6th Asian Beach Games features 14 sports: beach athletics, water sports (marathon swimming and water polo), 3x3 basketball, beach handball, beach soccer, beach volleyball, dragon boat racing, sport climbing, beach wrestling, jiu-jitsu, beach kabaddi, sailing (windsurfing and kiteboarding), triathlon (duathlon with swimming and running), and Sepak Takraw.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Weather

New Wave of Pre-Monsoon Storms Coming: Meteorological Department Issues 7-Day Forecast – Check Which Areas Will Be Affected

Thailand's Meteorological Department forecasts a new wave of pre-monsoon storms from April 28 to May 2, with thunderstorms, strong winds, and hail expected to spread from the Northeast and North regions to Bangkok and central areas.

26 Apr Khaosod

The Thai Meteorological Department released a regional 7-day weather forecast on April 26, 2569 (2026), projecting conditions through May 2. From April 26-27, northern Thailand will see reduced rainfall but thunderstorms with strong gusts and heavy downpours remain likely due to southerly and southeast winds. From April 28 to May 2, northern Thailand will experience pre-monsoon storms characterized by thunderstorms, strong winds, hail in some areas, and possible lightning. The storms are expected to begin in the Northeast, North, and East regions before spreading to the Central region and Bangkok metropolitan area. This is caused by a new high-pressure system and cold air mass from China affecting the South China Sea and Northeast.

For the South region during April 26 to May 2, rainfall will decrease as southeast winds weaken over the Gulf of Thailand and southern areas. Waves in the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea are expected to be around 1 meter high, with heights exceeding 2 meters in thunderstorm areas.

Warnings: From April 28 to May 2, residents in northern Thailand should exercise caution against pre-monsoon storm hazards. Avoid open spaces, large trees, structures, and weak signboards. Farmers should reinforce fruit trees and prepare protective measures for crops and livestock. Monitor health during weather changes.

Regional Forecasts (April 26 – May 2):

Northern Region: April 26-28 will see thunderstorms covering 10-30% of the area with strong winds and heavy rain in some locations. Hot afternoons with southerly winds 5-15 km/h. Lows of 21-27°C, highs of 34-40°C. April 29 to May 2 will be hot with scattered extreme heat. Thunderstorms affecting 40-60% of areas with strong winds, hail, and heavy rain. Southeast winds 5-15 km/h. Lows of 20-28°C, highs of 35-40°C.

Northeast Region: April 26-27 will be hot with thunderstorms affecting 10-30% of areas. East winds 10-20 km/h. Lows of 21-26°C, highs of 32-39°C. April 28 to May 2 will be hot with thunderstorms covering 20-40% of areas and occasional strong gusts. Southeast winds 10-20 km/h. Lows of 22-27°C, highs of 31-38°C.

Central Region: April 26-28 will feature thunderstorms affecting 10-30% of areas with occasional strong winds and hot afternoons. Southerly winds 10-20 km/h. Lows of 23-27°C, highs of 33-38°C. April 29 to May 2 will be hot with extreme heat in some areas. Thunderstorms affecting 40-60% of areas with strong winds and hail. Southeast winds 10-20 km/h. Lows of 24-28°C, highs of 35°C and above.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Community

Invitation to Join the Ceremony Enshrining Buddha's Sacred Relics from Three Nations: Thailand, Sri Lanka, and India

Buddhists and the public are invited to a sacred ceremony enshrining Buddha's relics from Thailand, Sri Lanka, and India on April 29, 2025, beginning at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The relics will be permanently enshrined at Samnak Song Pa Maha Setthi Rangsi Maha Veeyo in Khlong 15 and open for public veneration from May 1-11, 2025. The event offers devotees a rare opportunity to pay respects and accumulate merit through Buddhist practices and ceremonies.

26 Apr Khaosod

Buddhists and the general public are cordially invited to participate in the sacred ceremony enshrining Buddha's relics from three nations: Thailand, Sri Lanka, and India, taking place on April 29, 2025.

The event will feature sacred ceremonies and Buddhist activities, allowing devotees to pay respects, accumulate merit, and continue the Buddhist tradition in a grand manner.

Following the ceremony, the relics will be enshrined at Samnak Song Pa Maha Setthi Rangsi Maha Veeyo in Khlong 15, where the public can venerate them from May 1-11, 2025, between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM.

Key Schedule for April 29, 2025: 12:00 PM - Reception ceremony at Suvarnabhumi Airport 4:30 PM - Procession departure 5:30 PM - Enshrinement of the three Buddha relics 6:30 PM - Offering ceremony 7:00 PM - Chanting and meditation practice 9:00 PM - Dharma sermon

This event represents a rare opportunity to pay respects to Buddha's relics from various countries, bringing blessings to oneself and one's family.

For more information, contact Pun Dek De Foundation at 093-136-1041 or Line: @pundekde

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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