Specter of Thaksin's tax saga returns to haunt Thailand

14 Sept 10:31 Key points summarised by AI

A recent Central Tax Court ruling favored Thaksin Shinawatra, declaring the Revenue Department unlawfully ordered his children to pay 17 billion baht in back taxes, identifying Thaksin as the true offender.
The tax saga originated from the controversial 2006 sale of Shin Corp shares by the Shinawatra family to Temasek Holdings for 73 billion baht, which critics argued was structured to avoid taxes through an offshore company and individual sales.
This tax-free share sale sparked widespread public discontent and protests, ultimately culminating in a military coup in September 2006 that deposed Thaksin and initiated his political decline.
In 2010, the Supreme Court seized 46.3 billion baht of Thaksin's assets, ruling he abused his power to benefit Shin Corp, which subsequently led to the Revenue Department's demand for back taxes and fines.
Despite the recent court win for Thaksin, critics maintain the verdict confirms his illegal wealth concealment, ensuring the contentious tax dispute remains a significant and divisive issue in Thai politics.

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.