Jade Donavanik: The legal scholar putting the case against Thai democracy

22 Sept 04:38 Key points summarised by AI

Legal expert Jade Donavanik ignited public anger by suggesting Thailand should "dump democracy" if it fails the country, criticizing the current system as an oligarchy stemming from the 1932 revolution.
His controversial remarks emerge amid significant political turmoil, including an uneasy ruling coalition and a petition (co-lodged by Jade) threatening 600 lawmakers with removal over alleged constitutional breaches related to the 2025 Budget Bill.
Donavanik faces severe backlash, branded a hardcore royalist and anti-democrat by critics who accuse him of political bias and disillusionment after electoral defeats, even leading to a sedition accusation.
Despite his reputation as a top legal scholar, Jade's history of appointments to post-coup assemblies and committees fuels suspicions that he favors military rule over democratic governance in Thailand.

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.