Phumtham battles military distrust over his insurgent past

10 Sept 13:31 Key points summarised by AI

Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai faces significant military distrust stemming from his past as a communist insurgent and his close ties to former PM Thaksin Shinawatra.
Retired General Somjate Boonthamnom publicly challenged Phumtham's appointment, citing his "Comrade Yai" history and loyalty to Thaksin as threats to military morale and independence.
Phumtham's power is severely limited by the 2008 Defense Ministry Law, which grants military-dominated boards control over key decisions like promotions and security policies, hindering civilian authority.
He inherits unfulfilled military reform pledges and a ministry where his deputy is aligned with a former coup leader, further isolating him and complicating efforts to bridge the civilian-military divide.

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.