Here is a look at the top NATIONAL Thailand stories, chosen by our Pattaya News/TPN National team, from last week, Monday, May 13th, to Sunday, May 19th, 2024.
They are not in any particular level of importance but are listed in the order of date of publication.
The Thai Prime Minister currently visiting Kanchanaburi, told the public about the rumors that the proposed reclassification of cannabis into a narcotic illegal drug could potentially cause internal conflict among the coalition government parties.
Mr. Prasitchai Nunual, the secretary-general of the network for Shaping the Future of Thai Cannabis, and representatives from various sectors submitted a letter to Thai Minister of Public Health Somsak Thepsuthin for reconsideration of the criminalization of cannabis.
Deputy Government Spokesman Mr. Karom Phonphonklang, a member of the Bhumjaithai Party, expressed his concerns regarding the potential reclassification of cannabis back to a controlled narcotic substance, which would essentially recriminalize it.
The ongoing debate around making cannabis potentially an illegal narcotic again is likely to become more heated and go on for a significant time period.
2. In a concerning environmental development, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) of Thailand has reported the deaths of at least 20 dugongs in the Andaman Sea since the beginning of 2024.
The DMCR’s initiative underscores the urgent need to address the environmental challenges facing Thailand’s marine life and to ensure the survival of the endangered dugong species.
3. Ms. Netiporn Sanesangkhom, widely known in Thai as Bung Thaluwang, a political activist from Thaluwang, was pronounced deceased from cardiac arrest after being on a hunger strike for approximately 108 days.
Thai national media reported about a group of political activists gathering at Ratchada Criminal Court for candlelight vigils in remembrance of Ms. Netiporn “Bung” Sanesangkhom.
A group of Thai political activists submitted a letter to an ad hoc committee at the Thai parliament for consideration to provide amnesty to all people who were charged with political crimes under Section 112 or Lese Majeste.
Rest in Peace.
4. Mr. Atthaphon Charoenchansa, the director-general of the Thai National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation Department, issued an order to relevant agencies to investigate the case of a tiger cub on the loose in Bang Pakong, Chachoengsao.
Mr. Atthaphon Charoenchansa, the Director-general of the Thai National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation Department, publicly revealed an update on a case of a tiger cub on the loose in Bang Pakong, Chachoengsao.
The animal in question was indeed a tiger.
5. Thailand is gearing up to host the 19th International Vesak Day, an event that honors His Majesty the King’s 72nd Birthday Anniversary this year.
Visakha Bucha Day, also known as Vesak, 2024 will be on May 22nd, which is a public holiday. The sale of all types of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in convenience stores and entertainment venues on religious holidays under Thai law.
Get ready for that alcohol sales ban!
Thank you and see you next week!
The original version of this article appeared on our sister website, The TPN National News, owned by our parent company TPN media.
