2023’s top stories: The return of Thaksin and Shinawatra-power

23 Sept 04:33 Key points summarised by AI

Thaksin Shinawatra returned to Thailand after 15 years of exile to face corruption charges, but was controversially moved to a hospital for an undisclosed medical condition, leading to accusations of "VIP treatment" and questions about his actual whereabouts.
His return coincided with the parliamentary vote for Srettha Thavisin as Prime Minister, with strong Senate support sparking speculation of a "backroom deal" between Pheu Thai and the outgoing military-aligned power clique.
Thaksin is expected to be released soon under new regulations, while his youngest daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has risen to lead the Pheu Thai party, positioning her as his political heir and signaling a potential Shinawatra family comeback to the premiership.

Flooding persists in Bangkok and 22 provinces

Yesterday 16:00 Key points summarised by AI

Persistent flooding continues across Bangkok and 22 Thai provinces, though water levels are gradually receding in many affected areas.
Over 604,000 families, impacting approximately 1.83 million people, are still grappling with the widespread flood conditions.
The national flood death toll has reached 80 since mid-September, with fatalities reported across various provinces.
Major regions like Pathum Thani, Ayutthaya, and Bangkok report significant numbers of affected households, with hundreds of thousands still in trouble.