Thanin Kraivixien: 14th prime minister of Thailand, legal hawk, and scourge of communism

11 Sept 08:29 Key points summarised by AI

Thanin Kraivixien, a former law professor and Supreme Court judge, served as Thailand's 14th prime minister from 1976-1977, known for his staunch royalist and anti-communist views.
He was appointed by a military junta after the 1976 Thammasat massacre and coup, reportedly at King Bhumibol Adulyadej's suggestion, despite his lack of political experience.
His rightist government, dubbed "the clam government," was highly authoritarian and repressive, implementing hardline anti-communist measures like banning books and severing ties with communist countries.
Thanin's policies were criticized for strengthening communist support, leading to his ousting by another military coup just over a year into his term, though he later served on the Privy Council.

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.