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Nui’s nine lives: How Thaksin’s bodyguard rose to national strategy chief

10 Sept 06:00 Key points summarised by AI

Police Colonel Watanyu Witthayapalothai, known as "Superintendent Nui," demonstrates remarkable political resilience, consistently returning to power despite facing investigations when his Shinawatra-aligned bosses fell.
He has served as a bodyguard for four Shinawatra-allied prime ministers: Thaksin, Yingluck, Srettha, and Paetongtarn Shinawatra, often being reinstated or promoted whenever the Shinawatra faction regained political control.
His latest significant appointment is as director of the Office for Driving National Reform, Strategy and Reconciliation (Por-Yor-Por), a powerful C-11 civil service post, effective October 1.
This promotion is viewed as a major political comeback and a symbolic challenge to the previous military regime, highlighting his enduring influence and deep trust within the Shinawatra political sphere.

18 Oct 12:30 Key points summarised by AI

A recent NIDA poll indicates that a plurality of the public (30.38%) anticipates Kla Tham Party MPs will vote to support all 18 cabinet ministers targeted in the upcoming no-confidence debate.
Respondents believe the Ministry of Interior (38.78%) and the Prime Minister’s Office (21.37%) will face the toughest questioning during the censure debate.
Economic issues, particularly alleged incompetence in addressing problems (34.27%) and the rising cost of living (25.88%), are cited as the primary concerns for the government during the censure.
The public holds high expectations for the Opposition's case, with 45.65% believing clear, concrete evidence will be presented against all 18 ministers, and 41.22% expecting substantial evidence against specific ministers.