Connect with us

News

Thaksin’s Influence Fails to Secure Victory for Pheu Thai in Chiang Rai PAO Election

Published

on

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s political clout couldn’t sway the outcome of the Chiang Rai Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) presidential election in favor of the Pheu Thai Party. Despite Thaksin’s campaign efforts, the incumbent independent candidate, Athitathorn Wanchaithanawong, emerged victorious over Pheu Thai’s Salakjit Tiyapairat.

Election Results

Unexpected Outcome

With 95% of the votes counted, Athitathorn secured a lead of nearly 20,000 votes over her Pheu Thai rival1. The final tally showed Athitathorn with 249,845 votes, while Salakjit received 230,262 votes. A third candidate, Jiraporn Muenchaiwong, garnered 20,254 votes1.

Thaksin’s Campaign Efforts

Promises and Visits

In the lead-up to the election, Thaksin made two campaign visits to Chiang Rai, promising better care from the central government if voters elected a PAO president from the ruling party. However, these promises failed to materialize into votes for the Pheu Thai candidate.

Voter Maturity

Local vs. National Politics

Athitathorn attributed her victory to the political maturity of Chiang Rai residents, stating that they have learned to differentiate between local and national politics. This suggests that voters prioritized local issues and candidate qualifications over national party affiliations.

Implications for Pheu Thai

Setback in the North

This defeat in Chiang Rai, a province in Thailand’s northern region where Thaksin once held significant influence, represents a setback for the Pheu Thai Party. It highlights the challenges the party faces in maintaining its stronghold in areas traditionally supportive of Thaksin and his political movement.

Broader Election Context

Mixed Results Nationwide

While Pheu Thai faced disappointment in Chiang Rai, the party performed well overall in the PAO elections held across Thailand. Unofficial results indicate that Pheu Thai secured victories in 18 provinces, the highest number among all parties. This suggests that while Thaksin’s influence may have waned in some areas, the party still maintains considerable support nationwide.

See also  Mass Return to Bangkok After New Year Holiday: Transport Preparedness and Safety Measures
Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


News

Affordable Housing Initiative in Thailand Sees Overwhelming Response

Published

on

By

The “Home for Thais” project, launched by the Thai government on January 17, 2025, has garnered significant interest, with approximately 270,000 people registering for the program. This initiative aims to provide affordable housing options for low-income individuals and recent graduates.

Registration Success

Impressive Turnout

Since its launch, the project’s website has received a staggering 75 million visits. Out of the 270,000 registrants, more than half (140,000) have successfully passed the preliminary screening for loans with the Government Housing Bank.

High-Demand Areas

The most sought-after location for the housing project is on Vibhavadi Road in Bangkok. Other popular areas include Thon Buri in Bangkok, Muang district in Pathum Thani, and Muang district in Chiang Mai.

Project Details

Affordable Options

The initiative offers various housing options, including condominiums and single houses. For instance, the Bang Sue Km 11 project will feature 1,232 condominium units with prices starting at 1.76 million baht for 30 square meters.

Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply

To be eligible for the program, applicants must be Thai nationals of legal age, first-time homeowners, earn less than 50,000 baht per month, and not be blacklisted by the National Credit Bureau.

Future Plans

Expansion and Development

The government plans to utilize over 38,000 rai of unused land owned by the State Railway of Thailand for this housing program. The pilot project areas are expected to be handed over for development by the end of the year.

Selection Process

Ensuring Fairness

Due to the high number of eligible applicants, the Government Lottery Office will conduct a lottery draw for the first phase to ensure maximum transparency in the selection process.

See also  Bangkok Weather Alert: Temperatures Set to Plunge to 15°C
Continue Reading

News

Thailand’s Unexpected Chill: Bangkok Wakes to Cool Mornings as Winter Lingers

Published

on

By

Thailand’s unusual cold spell continues to surprise residents and tourists alike, with Bangkok experiencing refreshingly cool mornings. The Thai Meteorological Department predicts this weather pattern will persist until mid-February, offering a rare respite from the capital’s typically tropical climate.

Bangkok’s Brisk Awakening

Capital City Experiences Rare Cool Temperatures

Bangkok, known for its sweltering heat, has been waking up to unexpectedly cool mornings. Temperatures have dropped as low as 59.3°F (15.2°C), a shocking departure from the usual January range of 73°F to 91°F (23°C to 33°C). Residents and tourists are embracing this temporary winter, with many donning sweaters and jackets to combat the chill.

Nationwide Weather Shift

Cool Conditions Sweep Across Thailand

The cool weather isn’t limited to Bangkok. Northern Thailand is experiencing even lower temperatures, with nighttime lows ranging from 9°C to 15°C. The central region is also feeling the effects, with cool to cold mornings and the occasional light fog blanketing the landscape.

Meteorological Explanation

High-Pressure System and La Niña Phenomenon

This unusual weather pattern is attributed to a strong high-pressure system moving in from China. Additionally, Thailand has entered a La Niña phase, which is expected to bring lower temperatures and increased humidity throughout the first half of the year.

Impact on Daily Life

Residents and Businesses Adapt to the Cool Weather

The cooler temperatures are affecting daily life in Bangkok. Street vendors are hoping for increased foot traffic as people enjoy the pleasant weather for outdoor activities. However, authorities are also cautioning residents about potential fire hazards in dry areas and the risk of forest run-off in southern regions.

See also  Record-Breaking Launch of Free Electric Train Service in Bangkok

Looking Ahead

Forecasts and Expectations for the Coming Months

While temperatures are expected to gradually rise, the Thai Meteorological Department predicts that cooler-than-usual weather will persist across the country until at least mid-February. This extended period of mild weather offers a unique opportunity for both locals and tourists to experience Thailand in a different light.

Continue Reading

News

Thailand and China Strengthen Ties: Visa-Free Travel Boosts Tourism and Cultural Exchange

Published

on

By

The implementation of a mutual visa exemption agreement between Thailand and China has led to a significant increase in tourism and cultural exchanges between the two nations. This policy, which took effect on March 1, 2025, has already shown promising results in boosting visitor numbers and strengthening bilateral relations.

Economic Impact

Tourism Surge

The visa-free policy has sparked a notable surge in travel between Thailand and China. Chinese tour guides report fully booked schedules from early March through April, indicating a shift in peak travel seasons. This increase in tourism is expected to have a positive impact on both countries’ economies, with Thailand aiming to attract 8 million Chinese visitors in 2025.

Cultural Exchange

Deepening Connections

The visa waiver has facilitated greater cultural exchange between Thai and Chinese citizens. More Thai tourists are now considering China as a travel destination, exploring various aspects of Chinese culture, from historical sites to modern attractions. This mutual exploration is fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other’s heritage.

Diplomatic Relations

Strengthening Ties

The visa exemption policy marks a significant milestone in the diplomatic relations between Thailand and China. As 2025 commemorates the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, this agreement serves as a testament to the strong bond between the two nations. It reflects a commitment to mutual trust, respect, and a shared vision for prosperity.

Economic Cooperation

New Opportunities

Beyond tourism, the visa-free agreement is expected to catalyze broader economic cooperation. Experts suggest that future collaboration will focus on high-tech industries, renewable energy, and the digital economy. This shift towards innovation and high-value-added industries presents new growth opportunities for both countries.

See also  Thai Prime Minister Meets Chinese President in Beijing: Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Future Prospects

Sustainable Growth

As Thailand and China continue to strengthen their partnership, the visa-free policy is anticipated to have long-lasting positive effects. It not only promotes tourism but also encourages business exchanges and investment opportunities. This mutual arrangement sets the stage for sustained collaboration and economic growth in the years to come.

Continue Reading

Trending

Button Anchor Ad

Copyright © 2025 Phuket Time News.