Vatana Asavahame: Fugitive ‘Godfather of Pak Nam’ retains political power despite billion-baht scandal

15 Sept 14:52 Key points summarised by AI

Fugitive 87-year-old Vatana Asavahame, despite exile and legal status, actively exerts significant political influence in Thailand, particularly in Samut Prakan province.
He continues to lead the powerful Asavahame political clan, recently endorsing a long-time aide, Sunthorn Pansaengthong, for Samut Prakan PAO chief, aiming to maintain family control.
Vatana became a fugitive after being sentenced to 10 years for abusing power in the 23-billion-baht Klong Dan Wastewater Treatment Project scandal and later received another 3-year sentence for related land fraud.
From his Cambodian residence, he persistently engages in political activities, offering guidance and publicly campaigning for preferred candidates, as shown in recent video clips.

Lamphun in a New Light

Today 15:02 Key points summarised by AI

Lamphun illuminates its ancient city with two concurrent light festivals: the high-tech VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN and the traditional Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival.
VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN transforms historic landmarks into an outdoor gallery, using projections and multimedia to animate Lamphun's history, including Queen Chamadevi's story.
The Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival, part of Yi Peng, fills temples and streets with countless traditional lanterns, symbolizing Buddhist devotion and personal wishes.
These festivals offer a unique after-dark experience, blending contemporary light art with centuries-old Lanna traditions, connecting visitors to Lamphun's past and faith.