MoU44 issue being blown out of proportion - Phumtham

23 Sept 04:35 Key points summarised by AI

Deputy PM Phumtham Wechayachai dismisses the MoU44 controversy as exaggerated, clarifying it's a non-binding agreement for oil and gas negotiations with Cambodia, not a threat to Thailand's sovereignty over Kut Island, and requires public and parliamentary consent before implementation.
Phumtham defends the government against premature judgment, stating it's too early to assess its survival and confirming the Pheu Thai party has alternative candidates should the current Prime Minister face removal.
He acknowledges former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's undeniable and legal role in politics, citing his founding of the Pheu Thai party and his close ties to the current administration, while noting both pros and cons to his involvement.

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.