Protesters accept Thai PM’s olive branch, but demand his resignation by Sunday

22 Sept 13:33 Key points summarised by AI

Thai anti-government protesters agreed to de-escalate as proposed by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, but issued an ultimatum for his resignation within three days and the dropping of charges against detained activists.
The Prime Minister had previously appealed for calm in a televised address, promising to take the first step back from the brink.
Protesters marched from Victory Monument towards Government House, breaking through police blockades, and delivered a symbolic oversized resignation letter to the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, threatening to return if their demands are not met.

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.