Main Cambodia opposition party excluded from July polls

13 Sept 09:12 Key points summarised by AI

Cambodia's National Election Committee barred the main opposition Candlelight Party (CP) from contesting the July national elections, citing a failure to submit required documents.
This exclusion effectively ensures a one-horse race for Prime Minister Hun Sen's ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP), as the CP was considered the sole viable challenger.
Critics and rights groups accuse Hun Sen, one of the world's longest-serving leaders, of using the legal system to suppress opposition and consolidate power ahead of elections.
The Candlelight Party vows to appeal the "unreasonable" decision, asserting that the ban undermines Cambodia's path to plural-party democracy.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Today 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.