From Wissanu to Pichit: The legal eagles keeping prime ministers out of jail

21 Sept 05:13 Key points summarised by AI

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's new government faces immediate legal challenges, notably over a police chief appointment, leading to the appointment of Pichit Chuenban as a key legal adviser.
Pichit, a Pheu Thai legal expert, is tasked with guiding the PM through legal issues, despite past bribery allegations that prevented him from securing a ministerial position.
Observers unfavorably compare Pichit to Wissanu Krea-ngam, a seasoned 'legal czar' who successfully navigated several prime ministers, including Prayut Chan-o-cha, through numerous legal cases.
Wissanu Krea-ngam, a long-serving and influential legal advisor to multiple Thai governments since the 1990s, has retired from politics due to health reasons, creating a significant void in the government's legal advisory landscape.

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.