Thailand’s PM says he will not quit or release detained protesters

13 Sept 09:55 Key points summarised by AI

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha rejected demands to resign and release anti-government protesters, stating he has done "nothing wrong" and that releasing them would be "against the law."
He defended the state of emergency in Bangkok as necessary to restore peace and prevent law violations, citing the economic impact of protests in Hong Kong as a cautionary tale.
The PM implied protesters are responsible for the country's unrest, warned against spreading "distorted information," and dismissed any speculation of a military coup as baseless.

The Buddha Comes Home

Yesterday 15:38 Key points summarised by AI

Chong Para is a vibrant annual festival of the Shan (Tai Yai) people in Mae Hong Son, Thailand, celebrating the Buddha's return from Tavatimsa heaven after Buddhist Lent.
The festival's centerpiece involves families constructing intricate miniature palaces, also called Chong Para, from bamboo, paper, and lights, placed outside homes and temples as offerings.
For three days and nights, the quiet mountain town comes alive with folk music, traditional dances like the Shan bird dance, religious ceremonies, and community gatherings, showcasing deep-rooted Shan culture.
Beyond the celebrations, Chong Para reinforces family bonds, preserves traditional crafts, and offers visitors an authentic immersion into the unique cultural heritage of Mae Hong Son.