Pheu Thai beats a hasty retreat from push for military reforms

10 Sept 17:33 Key points summarised by AI

Pheu Thai MPs retracted a proposed bill to amend the Defense Ministry Administration Act, facing intense opposition from military and pro-military factions.
The withdrawn legislation sought to empower the Prime Minister and Cabinet over the military's Defense Council in overseeing affairs, reshuffles, and preventing potential coups.
This political retreat fuels doubts about the government's resolve for military reform, especially after Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra affirmed no intent to interfere with the armed forces.
Concurrently, the military advances its own draft bill to revise the 2008 act, emphasizing operational efficiency, which the ruling coalition is reportedly poised to support.

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.