Will it be Pita? A guide to this week’s vote for a new prime minister

13 Sept 10:49 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Parliament is set to vote for the 30th prime minister on July 13, with Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat emerging as the leading candidate.
Pita, backed by an eight-party coalition (311 MPs), requires 376 votes from a combined 750 MPs and senators but faces a significant challenge in securing the additional 65 votes, largely due to senatorial opposition over his party's proposed amendment to the lese majeste law.
Analysts outline several potential outcomes if Pita fails, including the opportunity shifting to the Pheu Thai Party, or a realignment where Pheu Thai or Bhumjaithai forms a government with conservative parties, potentially excluding Move Forward.
A prominent scenario suggests Bhumjaithai could form the next government with support from the outgoing coalition and some Pheu Thai MPs, a move potentially influenced by efforts to facilitate former premier Thaksin Shinawatra's planned return to Thailand.

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.