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Sulak Sivaraksa – the ‘progressive royalist’ charged with lèse majesté 5 times

2 Oct 11:00 Key points summarised by AI

Social critic Sulak Sivaraksa, a self-described 'progressive royalist,' made a surprise appearance at an anti-establishment rally, directing his criticism primarily at PM Prayut Chan-o-cha for reinstating the lèse majesté law (Article 112), arguing it defied royal wishes.
Sulak consistently advocates for monarchy reform and constructive criticism, viewing it as crucial for the institution's long-term benefit and survival, positioning himself as a 'true friend' to the monarchy.
He has faced five lèse majesté charges throughout his career, successfully defending himself by asserting his right to offer well-meant critical views, with his most recent case dropped due to 'royal kindness.'
A veteran scholar, prolific author, and co-founder of the International Network of Engaged Buddhists, Sulak commands significant local and international support, solidifying his influence in Thai intellectual and activist circles.

Yesterday 15:38 Key points summarised by AI

Thai MP Suchada Zhang Thaensap faces intense scrutiny over her husband’s substantial 1.84 billion baht wealth, with opposition lawmakers alleging connections to international scam networks.
A significant portion of her husband, Taiyang Zhang's, declared assets includes a 1.44 billion baht loan to the now-bankrupt cryptocurrency hedge fund Three Arrows Capital, which still owes him 1.34 billion baht.
Opposition MP Rangsiman Rome accused Suchada's husband of links to online scam networks and gambling sites, prompting Suchada to vehemently deny the claims, demand evidence, and file a defamation complaint.
Taiyang Zhang's background includes co-founding Ren Protocol, later sold to Alameda Research (linked to the FTX collapse), and some of his former associates have been convicted in crypto company failures.
Suchada, a former actress and first-time MP, maintains her husband's innocence, while her party leaders have distanced themselves from the allegations, deeming it a private matter.