Indonesian court paves way for president's son to run in 2024 election

23 Sept 06:50 Key points summarised by AI

Indonesia's Constitutional Court amended election eligibility rules, creating an exception to the 40-year minimum age for candidates who have previously held elected public office.
This ruling potentially allows President Joko Widodo's 36-year-old son, Surakarta City mayor Gibran Rakabuming Raka, to run in the 2024 presidential election, possibly as a vice-presidential candidate.
The decision has sparked significant controversy, largely because Chief Justice Anwar Usman, who heads the court, is President Widodo's brother-in-law, raising accusations of political interference and attempts to establish a political dynasty.
Critics and political analysts express concerns about the court's integrity, suggesting the judgment appears to favor specific family interests and casts doubt on the fairness of the judicial process.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Yesterday 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.