Tracking the growing Shinawatra influence in new Thai government

14 Sept 03:03 Key points summarised by AI

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's new government is heavily influenced by the Shinawatra family, with numerous official and unofficial advisers, appointees, and Cabinet colleagues linked to former PMs Thaksin and Yingluck.
Srettha appointed 13 official advisers, predominantly individuals with strong ties to previous Shinawatra-led governments, including former deputy prime ministers and key political allies.
Beyond official roles, the Prime Minister's Office includes close Shinawatra associates, family members, and long-serving loyalists, further solidifying the family's presence.
PM Srettha drew criticism for suggesting he would seek advice from Thaksin, intensifying scrutiny over the extent of the Shinawatra patriarch's potential influence post-release.

Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning

Yesterday 15:28 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister announced the government will seek clarification from the Chinese Embassy regarding its recent travel advisory warning Chinese nationals about safety concerns in Thailand.
The travel advisory is anticipated to negatively impact the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, despite recent increases in arrivals.
A meet-and-greet event featuring Chinese actress Bai Lu, a WeTV Global Ambassador, was abruptly cancelled just days after the Chinese Embassy issued its safety warning, though no official reason was provided.
The Chinese Embassy's advisory urged citizens to beware of job scams, fraudulent investments, suspicious travel arrangements, and the risk of illegal detention or being lured to the Thai-Myanmar border.
Chinese nationals were advised to verify job offers, use legitimate transport, avoid high-risk border areas, protect personal documents, and keep family informed of travel plans.