Thailand’s national park chief to face disciplinary probe in bribery scandal

23 Sept 02:44 Key points summarised by AI

Rutchada Suriyakul Na Ayutya, director-general of the National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, faces a disciplinary probe following bribery charges.
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Varawut Silpa-archa confirmed sufficient grounds for the probe and warned against linking him to the scam.
Whistleblower Chaiwat Limlikhitaksorn accused Rutchada of demanding bribes for transfers and promotions, leading to a sting operation.
A raid on Rutchada's office uncovered five million baht in cash, resulting in his arrest and temporary transfer to the Prime Minister’s Office.

Cabinet approves same-sex cohabitation bill

22 Oct 09:40 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's cabinet approved a landmark bill to legalize cohabitation for intersex couples, potentially making it the first Asian nation to formally recognize LGBT partnerships.
The proposed law grants registered intersex couples significant rights, including collective financial management, inheritance, medical consent, and the ability to arrange funerals.
This legislative move aims to rectify the existing legal framework that only recognizes heterosexual marriage, aligning Thai law with human rights principles and the reality of intersex couples living together.