Polls open in second phase of Myanmar junta-run election

13 Sept 11:10 Key points summarised by AI

Myanmar's junta opened polls for the second phase of elections, a vote that democracy watchdogs and analysts contend is a military-orchestrated effort to prolong its rule and legitimize the 2021 coup.
The military's proxy party, the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), secured a landslide in the first phase, with critics asserting the election is rigged due to the sidelining of democratic figurehead Aung San Suu Kyi and the dissolution of her popular party.
Public interest in the election remains low, as many perceive it as a facade; voting is notably absent in rebel-controlled territories, and a quarter of parliamentary seats are constitutionally reserved for the armed forces, regardless of the outcome.

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.