Category: Politics

Parliament, The Speaker of the House of Representatives points out that the government can use the existing referendum law. But if you want to fix it, you can propose it during the special opening period. It is believed that more than half of the people came out to exercise their rights. Mr. Wan Muhammad Noor Matha, Speaker of the House of Representatives Referring to the case where there were calls to amend some sections of the Referendum Act, he said that there is now a referendum law already in place. If the government were to use existing laws to hold a referendum, they could do so. Unless the government sees that it wants to amend some sections first. It can be proposed to be revised during the extraordinary meeting. I don't know if it will be offered or not. But the existing law allows for a referendum because it only asks people whether they agree or disagree with the constitutional amendment. If you want to amend it, vote "Modify". If you don't want to amend it, "Vote No." 'I believe that more than half of the people will come out and exercise their rights. Because if everyone All parties helped to campaign, including the government, the media, and the public. When the campaign was completed, I did not think that less than half of the people would come out and exercise their rights. But if less than half of the people come out to exercise their rights, it shows that the people do not want to amend the constitution. must act accordingly,' said the Speaker of the House of Representatives. When asked if the first referendum had less than half of the people come out to exercise their rights, would the budget of over 3,000 million baht be wasted? Mr. Wan Muhammad Noor said that the law is like that. But he is still confident that More than half of the people will come out. Because at election time, whether at the local level or at any level More than half of the people came out to exercise their rights. Most are about 70-80 percent and have been campaigning a lot lately. People came out to exercise their ri ghts more than 80 percent. Source: Thai News Agency

Parliament, "Wan Nor" waits for the Cabinet to set the date for the opening of the extraordinary parliamentary session to discuss Budget 68, emphasizing that June is appropriate, revealing that the draft amendment to the Constitution cannot yet be considered. Why do we have to wait for a referendum first? Mr. Wan Muhammad Noor Matha, Speaker of the House of Representatives, spoke about the opening of an extraordinary meeting of the House of Representatives to consider the draft Act (Act) for the fiscal year 2025 expenditures, saying that it is up to the government to bring the draft Act. B.Budget When do you enter? If the government wants to bring the budget into the first agenda During the closing session The government can inform parliament. In order to have an extraordinary meeting open and see it as a good thing. Because there is something urgent that will be done during that time. As for whether it will be on June 5-6 as there is news or not. It must be up to the government to determine. Because during the month of May, the MPs may have various missions. If it's June It is appropriate because it is 1 month before the opening of the meeting. It is considered the period during which a request to open an extraordinary meeting can be made. When asked about the opening of the extraordinary meeting In addition to the budget issue, Are other matters also taken into consideration? Mr. Wan Muhammad Noor said he still doesn't know what it will have. Because the matter of amending the constitution cannot yet be taken into consideration. Because the government will have to go to a referendum in the first round first. It is seen that it will be completed around July. But there are many other laws. that remains If the government wants to bring it into an extraordinary session, the House is ready. As for laws regarding constitutional amendments, if anyone proposes them, The council will accept it and consider whether it can be filled or not. It is a matter for the legal department of the House of Representatives and rela ted parties to examine whether they can be filled or not. And we must see whether it will conflict with the decision of the Constitutional Court or not. Including having to wait for a referendum to be held. As for other laws related to finance must be sent to the Prime Minister for approval first As for the case where the Progressive Party requests the Speaker of the House to expedite the draft amendment to the constitution, the Speaker said that the Progressive Party is able to propose it. But will it be packed or not? We have to look again because the government has resolved to do the nation first. 'You have to speak frankly. that if the proposal has already been considered If there is conflict with the Constitutional Court Until someone went to petition the Constitutional Court causing the constitutional amendment bill to be rejected It wastes more time than the government has decided to hold a referendum for 3 rounds, at least the first round. It was to ask the people first whether there would be an ame ndment to the Constitution or not. If you want to make corrections It is in accordance with the decision of the Constitutional Court. Then slowly propose a draft to edit. It will not waste time. This is considered to be in accordance with the procedures and safe,' Mr. Wan Muhammad Noor Said. Source: Thai News Agency

Hanoi: Vietnamese Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son and his Indonesian counterpart Retno Marsudi co-chaired the fifth meeting of the Vietnam-Indonesia Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) in Hanoi on April 24. Son congratulated Indonesia on its successful general election earlier this year, believed that Indonesia would continue to prosper, elevate its position on the international arena, and become a developed country by 2045, its 100th founding anniversary. Marsudi, for her part, affirmed that Indonesia always values and wishes to further enhance its strategic partnership with Vietnam. She hailed Vietnam's successful organisation of the ASEAN Future Forum, which has significantly contributed to promoting the building of a strong and self-reliant ASEAN Community, upholding its central and pioneering role in coping with regional challenges. The two ministers agreed to further facilitate all-level exchanges and meetings, effectively uphold existing cooperation mechanisms, expedite the co mpletion of the action plan for the 2024-2028 period, contributing to fostering political trust and deepening bilateral cooperation in various fields, toward elevating bilateral relationship to new heights. Indonesia is currently Vietnam's third largest trading partner while Vietnam is the fourth biggest trading partner of Indonesia in ASEAN. Two-way trade hit 14 billion USD in 2023, and reached 3.6 billion USD in the first quarter of 2024, up 20% annually. Toward a two-way trade of 18 billion USD by 2028, with a more balanced fashion, both sides pledged to encourage the early organisation of a meeting of the Joint Commission on economic, scientific and technical cooperation, hold trade promotion activities and help firms access each other's markets. Minister Marsudi stressed that Indonesian enterprises are increasingly interested in expanding their investments in Vietnam. In reply, Son suggested that both sides create favourable conditions for their businesses to expand and diversify investments, particul arly in new and promising fields such as green economy, circular economy, renewable energy, semiconductor industry, digital economy, electric vehicles and Halal cooperation. Host and guest vowed to reinforce collaboration in national defence-security, fight against cross-border crimes, including cyber and human trafficking crimes. They also encouraged promoting air connectivity and increased cooperation in agriculture, aquaculture, education, tourism and people-to-people exchange. On the global and regional issues of shared concern, including the East Sea and Myanmar issues, they promised to continue offering mutual support at multilateral and regional organisations and forums, such as the United Nations, ASEAN, and sub-regional cooperation. The two sides concurred to maintain ASEAN's solidarity and agreed principles on the East Sea issue to ensure regional peace, stability and prosperity on the basis international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). They also pledged to step up the full and effective implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) and actively push for the early conclusion of a substantive and effective Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC) that is in line with international law and the 1982 UNCLOS. The sixth meeting of its kind is scheduled to be held in Indonesia in 2026./. Source: Vietnam News Agency

Government House, "Minister Puangphet" orders the Ministry of Education and Social Security to go to the house of "Nong Nice Chuamchit" to find information about his father and mother who entered information that is against religious principles. Is it considered deceiving the public? Ready to take immediate legal action. Mrs. Puangpetch Chunlaid, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office Referring to the case where people called for the Office of Buddhism (B.E.) to investigate "Nong Nice," an 8-year-old child who claimed to be the Buddha's son. Teach Dhamma by connecting the mind that does not exist in the teachings. That order was given to Mr. Inthaphon Chan-iam, Director of the National Office of Buddhism. Together with the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (Ministry of Social Development and Human Security), they visited the residence of the family of the child along with Mr. Kanthat. Pongpaiboonwet or Kan Jompalang to urgently check what the action is. Is it appropriate or not? Be cause there are many complaints from the public. 'Parents must also check whether they have entered incorrect information for their children. Because the child is still young Probably still hasn't thought much about it. Including checking to see if there is anyone behind the scenes hoping to take advantage of Nice. I think that referencing the Buddha in this way is inconsistent with the teachings of Buddhism. Both make people believe Therefore, the Buddhist Office was sent to the area to investigate. If there is an issue that is considered to be deceptive to the public, legal action will be taken or if any monks and novices are involved, action must be taken immediately without exception. At the same time, we ask the people to use their discretion before listening to the teachings,' Mrs. Puangphet said. Source: Thai News Agency

Hanoi: Acting President Vo Thi Anh Xuan congratulated outgoing Ambassador of Algeria to Vietnam Abdelhamid Boubazine on his successful tenure in Vietnam during a reception in Hanoi on April 24. Xuan was delighted to note that during his tenure, ties between Vietnam and Algeria have seen positive developments in all areas. Bilateral cooperation mechanisms such as the third political consultation and the 12th meeting of the Inter-Governmental Committee have been revived after a period of inactivity, providing platforms to discuss measures to boost all-around cooperation. In 2023, two-way trade witnessed impressive growth compared to the previous year. Cultural and people-to-people exchanges have also consolidated the solid foundation of the two countries' friendship. Recognising the vast potential for economic and trade collaboration, particularly in energy and agriculture, President Xuan expressed her hope that Ambassador Boubazine would continue to champion these sectors. A stronger partnership in these are as, she emphasised, could contribute significantly to energy and food security in each nation and the region. She envisioned a future where Vietnam serves as a bridge between Algeria and ASEAN countries, while Algeria plays a similar role connecting Vietnam with African nations. Looking beyond the diplomat's current role, Xuan wished that he would continue contributions toward facilitating bilateral cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. Boubazine, for his part, was satisfied with the remarkable progress in bilateral ties over the past years, including in politics, economy, trade, and people-to-people exchange. He expressed his profound gratitude for the unwavering support that the Vietnamese State and people extended to Algeria during its struggle for independence, saying that Vietnam was one of the first countries to recognise the provisional government of the Algerian Republic in 1958 and established diplomatic relations following Algeria's independence in 1962. Highlighting ample room for coordi nation in investment, trade, agriculture, healthcare and environment, he concluded by pledging to remain a bridge between the two nations in whatever capacity he serves in the future, working to elevate the bilateral relationship to even a greater height./. Source: Vietnam News Agency

Parliament, "Parinya" sees Hua as being difficult to choose as senator. unless votes are bought Advice to keep an eye on it if it drags on. It may affect the power of the original acting senators. In the event of a change of Prime Minister Mr. Parinya Thewanaruemitkul Lecturer at the Faculty of Law Thammasat University Mentioning the process of selecting a new set of senators (Senators) to replace the current set whose term is about to expire, there will be a large number of applicants, up to 200,000 people, which may have problems and complaints. As for the case of the Progress Party campaigning for people to apply to vote for the Senate, that is something that can be done. to pit independent voters against established candidates from big-time politicians in the area 'As for the case where it is considered that this selection of Senators may be a hoax. I think that with a system that allows one to choose among 20 professional fields and cross-select Makes it difficult to argue with each other Moreover, vo ting for each other is not illegal. Except for buying votes or giving benefits. Ask the Election Commission (EC) to carefully investigate the issue of using money to buy votes. In addition, the Election Commission should consider reviewing the application fee from the original 2,500 baht to 500 baht so that the general public can access and apply more,' Mr. Parinya said. When asked whether the issue of hazing or submitting a matter for consideration of constitutional law would disrupt the selection of senators, Mr. Parinya said there could be issues in both cases, even though according to the Election Commission's rules, it has the power to announce the results internally. How long? But in the case where there is no problem But if a problem arises, such as a complaint from the district level with a large number of applicants, how will it be handled? 'I ask you to keep an eye on this. If the announcement of the results of selecting new senators must be extended, that affects the existence of the Senate Outfi ts from the NCPO who must perform acting duties until there is a new set of senators Regarding the power to choose the Prime Minister in Parliament, although the transitional provisions, Section 272, stipulates that the power will last 5 years from the date of the Parliament's existence. But there may be someone who goes to the Constitutional Court to interpret it. If there are factors that want to change the Prime Minister,' Mr. Parinya said. Source: Thai News Agency

Hanoi: Vietnamese Minister of National Defence General Phan Van Giang on April 24 received Deputy Defence Minister of the Republic of Korea (RoK) Kim Seon Ho, who is in Vietnam to attend the 11th Vietnam-RoK defence policy dialogue. Giang affirmed that Vietnam consistently values its diplomatic relations with the RoK, and wants to work with the country to further deepen bilateral ties for the common benefits of their people, contributing to peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region and the world. He acknowledged the RoK's care and support for Vietnam's efforts to overcome war consequences, especially the removal of unexploded ordnance for the RoK - Vietnam Peace Village project to clean up areas still contaminated with mines and bombs in Vietnam. He proposed the two sides continue to promote and actively implement effective cooperation in addressing war consequences in Vietnam and defence industry. The minister took this occasion to invite the Korean Defence Ministry's leaders and Korean defence enterprises to attend the second International Defence Exhibition slated for this December. Speaking highly of the two countries' defence relations, Kim Seon Ho agreed to fully implement the contents of the Memorandum of Understanding on defence cooperation between the two defence ministries, and important cooperation activities agreed upon by the two ministers during Giang's visit to the RoK in 2023./. Source: Vietnam News Agency

NACC, NACC reveals that "former Big PTTEP" received bribes to facilitate Rolls-Royce's contract to purchase more than billions in equipment. Confiscation of property Mr. Niwatchai Kasemmongkol, secretary-general of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), as spokesman for the NACC, announced that the NACC has resolved to determine the basis of the offense. In the case where there is reasonable cause to suspect that Mr. Chitphong Kwangsuksathit Director of PTT Exploration and Production Public Company Limited or PTTEP, as chairman of the ad hoc subcommittee, with those who facilitated Rolls-Royce Energy System Company to have the right to enter into Contract with PTT Exploration and Production Public Company Limited to purchase Feed Gas Turbine Compressor equipment for the central production platform of Project PTT (Project PTT Arthit). The case is a result of the United States Department of Justice. Investigated the case of bribe payments made by Rolls-Royce plc and its subsidiaries. to government o fficials in many countries and in making an agreement to delay the lawsuit This includes the implementation of PTTEP's Sunday project, for which Rolls-Royce hired an intermediary. and pay a portion of the commission It was a bribe to PTTEP officials in order to have the right to enter into the contract for the said project. The NACC therefore raised reasonable grounds to investigate. By having the entire NACC committee be the investigative body. The facts from the investigation revealed that between 2004 and 2008, PTT Exploration and Production Public Company Limited or PTTEP built a production platform in the middle of the Arthit Project. Located in the Gulf of Thailand and an air compressor powered by a gas turbine engine is provided. For use in feeding gas from the source into the production process, 2 machines, with a budget of 27,000,000 US dollars or approximately 1,000 million baht. The PTTEP Board of Directors resolved to assign an ad hoc sub-committee consisting of Mr. Chitphong Kwang. Suksathit, Mr . Chulasingh Wasantasingh and Mr. Anucha Sihanathakathakul are the authorized persons in granting approval. In the procurement process, Mr. Phaophadet Worabutr, when he was the Deputy General Manager of Offshore Area (TOA), hastened to issue invitation letters to companies that will participate in the bidding, including Rolls-Royce Company, before The Procurement Committee of PTTEP Company gave its approval. In addition, in considering and approving the order of the ad hoc sub-committee. The decision was made to approve in principle the order. With comments to prepare price comparison figures that are most beneficial to the company. proposed to the meeting to consider again, but Mr. Marut Maruekatat, President and Secretary of PTTEP Company, rushed to report to the Board of Directors' meeting that the ad hoc sub-committee unanimously approved the purchase of Feed Gas Turbine Compressor. from Rolls-Royce, even though the ad hoc sub-committee had only agreed in principle to order Including Mr. Chitphong, Mr. C hulasingh and Mr. Anucha, who were part of the ad hoc sub-committee and were present at the said meeting, they did not object or explain the details. of the resolution of the ad hoc subcommittee in any way The situation therefore aims to prevent fair price competition. To facilitate Rolls-Royce Company to have the right to enter into a contract with PTTEP Company to order 2 Feed Gas Turbine Compressors with a total procurement value of 24,663,303 US dollars (approximately 900 million baht). By Mr. Phao Phadet receive benefits In return from Rolls-Royce, the commission was paid into a bank account in Singapore. and later transferred to Mr. Paophadet's close people, a total of 300,543 US dollars, or approximately 10 million baht, which is the receipt of assets that were not legally appropriate. Causing damage to PTTEP Company. Therefore, the NACC considered and resolved that Mr. Chitphong's actions Kwangsuksathit, Mr. Anucha Sihanatkathakul and Mr. Marut Maruekhathat have criminal grounds according to the Ac t on Offenses of Employees in Government Organizations or Agencies 1959, Section 8 and Section 11 and B.E. Section 12 of the Act on Offenses Concerning Bidding for Government Agencies, 1999, and the actions of Mr. Marut Marikatat are grounds for serious disciplinary offenses. As for the actions of Mr. Paophadet Worabutr, they have criminal grounds according to the Act on Offenses of Employees in Government Organizations or Agencies 1959, Section 6, Section 8 and Section 11 of the Act. For offenses related to bidding for government agencies, 1999, Section 5 and Section 12, Anti-Money Laundering Act 1999, Section 5 (1) and (2), together with Section 60 and the Act. Concerning the Prevention and Suppression of Corruption, 1999, Section 103 includes Section 122 and contains grounds for serious disciplinary offenses. while the actions of the other accused From the investigation, there were no facts and evidence that could be heard to show that the alleged offense had been committed. The accusation is baseless. L et the accusation be dropped. For Mr. Chulasingh Wasantasingh, he has passed away. The right to bring a criminal case will be suspended, so the case will be removed from the registry. by committee NACC to submit report Proceedings of the inquiry documentary evidence electronic copy and the decision will be sent to the Attorney General To prosecute criminal cases and submit reports and investigation documents documentary evidence and decision to the commander to take disciplinary action According to the said offense according to the Prevention Act. and suppressing corruption 2018, Section 91 (1) (2) and Section 98, as the case may be. In this regard, the Attorney General must be notified. Make a request to the court which has jurisdiction to consider the case. Confiscation of bribe assets totaling 300,543 US dollars in accordance with the Act on Prevention and Suppression of Corruption B.E. 2018, Section 83 and Section 84, together with Section 93. Source: Thai News Agency