Myanmar junta sets out tough new rules for political parties

21 Sept 06:13 Key points summarised by AI

Myanmar's junta mandates political parties re-register under strict new electoral laws within two months, signaling preparations for fresh elections this year.
New regulations require national parties to rapidly mobilize 100,000 members and establish offices in half of the country's townships, with failure leading to loss of party status.
The US denounces any junta-held elections as a "sham," contrasting with Russia's support, as the military continues to suppress resistance and dismantle Aung San Suu Kyi's NLD.
The junta is considering a shift to proportional representation, a move analysts believe aims to prevent a repeat of the NLD's previous sweeping majorities.

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.