Category: The Bangkok Post

The Election Commission (EC) is on track to complete its review of the high-profile Senate election collusion case within the legal timeframe, EC chairman Narong Klanwarin said, rejecting allegations the agency is delaying proceedings.

Mr Narong said the commission deliberates every Monday, with three of the 12 scheduled meetings already completed and the fourth due next week.

“We are confident the process will be completed within the legal timeframe,” he said.

He acknowledged mounting calls for the EC to forward the case to the court but said the commission is required to investigate and rule on every complaint before deciding whether to dismiss it or refer it for judicial consideration.

“The EC is not a post office that simply forwards whatever is submitted to us. We cannot do that because it would be against the law. We must issue a ruling on every case,” Mr Narong said. He also denied the EC was deliberately prolonging the process, saying the commission remains committed to completing the review within the 12 scheduled meetings.

The EC cannot meet solely on the Senate case because it must also handle complaints arising from local and Bangkok elections, he added.

Mr Narong said commissioners are reviewing the entire case file independently rather than relying on the conclusions of any investigative subcommittee.

Responding to questions about new evidence released by People’s Party MP Parit Wacharasindhu, Mr Narong said all evidence contained in the investigation dossier would be considered.

He also denied feeling pressure despite persistent criticism from opposition parties.

“I am simply performing my duties under the law. If I could not withstand the pressure, I would have resigned,” he said.

The Senate election collusion case has become one of the most closely watched political investigations since the nationwide Senate election on June 26, 2024.

Investigators allege an organised network coordinated Senate candidates across all 20 occupational groups, with senior politicians, cabinet members and influential provincial political families accused of supporting the operation.

Under the EC investigation, 229 people have been formally accused, including 138 senators and 91 political figures.

The case has been jointly investigated by the EC and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI). While the EC’s original panel recommended referring the case to the Supreme Court, a later subcommittee concluded by a 5-2 vote that no offences had been committed, creating conflicting recommendations.

From toddlers watching cartoons on tablets to teenagers scrolling through social media, screens have become an integral part of childhood in Thailand, raising questions about how a generation growing up with them will develop, learn and interact with the world.

The issue has climbed the policy agenda as evidence accumulates that excessive screen time and unrestricted social media use are affecting children’s wellbeing.

Experts warn the risks extend far beyond addiction, encompassing cognitive development, mental health, online exploitation and the erosion of social skills.

Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) data show that 93.1% of Thais use the internet and spend an average of seven hours and 54 minutes online each day.

Particularly alarming for child-development specialists is the finding that 72.6% of children aged up to two years spend more than one hour a day in front of screens.

For many experts, these figures represent a warning about the future quality of Thailand’s human capital.

Concern has reached the highest levels of government.

Last Sunday, Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Thongsri, chairman of ThaiHealth, instructed the organisation to prepare proposals on reducing screen time among children and young people and assess whether further regulation may be required.

Warning signs

Danaya Wasuwat, Senior Project Management Specialist at the Thai Media Fund and a former university lecturer currently completing her second master’s degree at the Faculty of Education, Chulalongkorn University, said excessive screen time and unrestricted social media use are affecting children’s cognitive development.

Teachers across the country have raised developmental concerns about children who spend excessive time on screens and social media. Children are arriving at school with shorter attention spans, weaker emotional regulation, delayed language development and declining social skills, they say.

Most concerning is that such problems are appearing among kindergarten-age children. She said Thailand had underestimated the long-term significance of the issue.

“We have not invested enough in protecting our future human capital,” she said.

The problem is not limited to development. Children also face a rapidly expanding range of online threats, including cyberbullying, online sexual exploitation, scams and gambling platforms.

She cited data shared by the Cyber Crime Police indicating large numbers of children are targeted by online scams and exploitation each year, while only a small proportion of cases are successfully resolved.

The fund has previously engaged with Google on online child safety.

Although platforms such as YouTube Kids offer additional safeguards, she noted these protections depend on parents actively choosing to use them, while many children continue to access content through standard platforms.

Asst Prof Weerachat Soopunyo of Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Education said the roots of the problem often begin at home.

“When we look closely at the causes, young children simply need care and attention,” he said.

“Many are given mobile phones because adults are busy or want to keep them occupied.”

Over time, what begins as a practical solution can harden into an ingrained habit.

“It may not amount to addiction in the clinical sense, but it develops into a behavioural pattern that is difficult to change,” he said.

Behind the introduction of social media restrictions in several countries, extensive consultation with parents, educators and experts has played an important role in shaping policy.

Whether Thailand eventually follows the growing number of countries considering similar measures, experts argue that parents must also reflect on their own technology habits.

It has become increasingly common for families to sit together while each person is absorbed in a different screen.

While public debate often focuses on “screen addiction”, Asst Prof Weerachat argues that habitual dependence on digital devices can be equally damaging because it gradually replaces activities essential to children’s development.

As social interaction shifts online, some experts worry children are losing chances to develop communication, empathy and relationship-building skills.

Beyond bans

While international attention has focused on social media bans, Thai experts caution against viewing legislation as a silver bullet.

Australia’s law barring children under 16 from social media has become a closely watched example.

Companies that fail to prevent underage access face penalties of up to A$49.5 million, or roughly 1.13 billion baht.

Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, manager of ThaiHealth, said the organisation is studying such measures and their potential in Thailand.

“Many countries have implemented such measures. We need to study them before deciding what is appropriate for Thailand,” he said, though he said regulation is only one part of the solution.

ThaiHealth has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society to strengthen online child protection, built around four priorities: improving digital literacy, developing educational tools for schools and communities, promoting healthier online behaviour through public campaigns, and strengthening cooperation among government agencies, businesses and civil society.

Ms Danaya said the Thai Media Fund has worked with Google on child online safety initiatives, including YouTube Kids, but noted such safeguards depend on parents actively choosing to use them.

Many children still access content through standard platforms where protections are weaker.

Structural challenges

Assoc Prof Dr Suriyadeo Tripathi, director of the Centre for Moral Development, said excessive screen use is partly a symptom of broader structural problems.

Thailand lacks space for kids to enjoy out-of-curriculum activity.

The education system also focuses on competition with excessive demands for homework and exams that are often set beyond a student’s age level.

He called on local administrations, including the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, to improve parks, community libraries and local learning centres to draw children away from screens.

“We should not wait for the law as it might take longer than three years,” he said. “This could be done immediately with less cost of investment.”

Dr Suriyadeo said he and allied organisations would submit an open letter to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul urging the government to treat children’s digital wellbeing as a national priority — not simply a welfare issue, but an economic one affecting the future quality of Thailand’s workforce.

The Cambodian government has banned Discord, Patreon and 29 other websites, claiming the platforms are linked to illegal gambling and illicit activities that threaten national progress and growth, sparking widespread public outcry and calls to reconsider the decision.

The Patreon app is a membership and crowdfunding platform where fans can financially support their favourite creators. Discord is a free communication platform where users can interact using text, audio, video and screen sharing.

On June 17, Cambodian media reported that the Telecommunication Regulator of Cambodia (TRC) ordered the blocks, stating the 31 websites violate national laws. Officials argued that the platforms host illicit content and gambling operations, which could negatively impact education and the country’s developing economy.

According to official data, 23 of the banned websites were categorised as online gambling platforms. The remaining eight were flagged as unauthorised trading and service platforms, a category that surprisingly included the popular creator subscription site Patreon.

Meanwhile, communication giant Discord saw two of its primary domains blocked – discord.com and discord.gg. The sudden restriction has caused deep concern among Cambodian users who rely heavily on the platform for daily communication, education, gaming, and community engagement. (continues below)

The ban has met with strong resistance from locals, who argue that Discord and Patreon are legitimate global platforms that should not be lumped together with illegal gambling syndicates. Many pointed out the inconsistency in the policy, noting that similar communication apps like Telegram remain fully operational.

Critics have also questioned the lack of transparency surrounding the decision, expressing frustration over the absence of any prior public consultation before the sweeping blocks were enforced.

Ngeth Moses, a digital security adviser, said authorities may have uncovered evidence linking both platforms to illegal activities during recent raids on scam compounds operated by fraud syndicates.

However, Mr Moses warned that restricting access to the platforms could negatively affect legitimate users, including content creators, podcasters and gaming communities. He added that blocking platforms alone would not eliminate online fraud or gambling, as offenders could easily bypass restrictions using virtual private networks (VPNs).

Instead, he said Cambodian authorities should strengthen cooperation with international law enforcement agencies to improve investigations and more effectively combat cross-border cybercrime.

Inclusion is being recognised as a driver of economic growth, investment and competitiveness, with speakers at a forum highlighting its role in strengthening productivity and long-term national development.

The issue was discussed at the Bangkok Post Pride Dialogue 2026: Where Diversity, Culture and Economy Meet, co-organised by the Bangkok Post and the Australian Embassy in Bangkok at Emsphere on Friday.

The event brought together diplomats, business leaders and advocates to examine how diversity and inclusion policies influence economic outcomes and corporate performance.

Speaking on the topic of “Beyond Pride: Inclusion as a Driver of Economic and Social Progress”, Lisa Davidson, Acting Counsellor (Economic) and Pride Champion at the Australian Embassy, said governments are viewing inclusion not only as a matter of rights but also as an economic strategy with measurable benefits.

She referred to research from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, which indicates more inclusive societies tend to be more stable and better governed, while also attracting stronger foreign direct investment and achieving improved long-term economic performance.

“Inclusion ensures every member of society feels respected, belongs and is able to contribute fully,” she said, adding that Australia has embedded inclusion across legislation, public health systems and foreign policy frameworks.

She highlighted Australia’s workplace anti-discrimination laws, marriage equality legislation and protections for LGBTQ+ individuals across all six states and two territories as part of its approach.

Beyond domestic policy, she pointed to the Equality Collaboration Fund, a AU$20.6 million (about 474 million baht) initiative supporting civil society organisations across Asia and the Pacific, as an example of Australia’s international engagement on inclusion.

Ms Davidson said inclusion is also increasingly embedded in Australia’s national identity and governance, reinforcing both social cohesion and economic resilience.

While inclusion is associated with stronger economic outcomes, exclusion carries significant measurable costs, according to Numan Afifi, Programme and Advocacy Lead at APCOM Foundation.

Drawing on World Bank research, he said discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals can negatively affect economic performance through reduced productivity, increased poverty levels and higher public health expenditure.

He cited estimates suggesting that exclusion of LGBTQ+ people could cost some countries between 0.1% and 1.7% of gross domestic product, depending on the scale of discrimination and labour market barriers.

“No nation wants any of its citizens left behind,” he said, adding economies perform better when all individuals are able to participate fully in the workforce and contribute to development.

He noted that highly skilled professionals are more likely to relocate to countries where they can live openly and safely, while businesses that fail to create inclusive environments risk losing talent to competitors.

Mr Numan said inclusion must go beyond symbolic gestures. Workplace culture is defined by action rather than intention. He said organisations must implement clear policies and practices to ensure equality is embedded in day-to-day operations.

“Culture doesn’t exist in the mind. It exists through action,” he said, adding that meaningful inclusion requires consistent implementation within workplaces.

The discussion also examined regional developments, noting shifting attitudes towards LGBTQ+ rights in parts of Asia-Pacific. Participants highlighted Thailand’s marriage equality law as a domestic milestone, alongside a recent ruling by Nepal’s Supreme Court supporting recognition of same-sex marriage rights.

These developments reflect gradual progress in parts of the region, although disparities remain. In several countries, same-sex relationships remain criminalised and LGBTQ+ communities continue to face discrimination, stigma and limited legal protection.

Mr Numan warned that human rights conditions in one country can have wider implications beyond its borders, particularly in an interconnected global economy.

He encouraged governments to make greater use of international mechanisms such as the United Nations Universal Periodic Review process and Asean human rights frameworks to address concerns collectively. He acknowledged, however, the effectiveness of such mechanisms depends on political will and cooperation among member states.

The role of multinational corporations was also highlighted as important in advancing inclusion. Mr Numan urged companies to maintain inclusive workplace policies even when operating in jurisdictions where LGBTQ+ identities remain stigmatised or criminalised.

Rather than lowering standards to match local constraints, he said businesses should use their influence to promote equality and protect employee rights. “My advice is don’t be afraid to apply all these inclusive policies in your workplace because business and human rights go hand in hand,” he said.

Vote counting is under way in Bangkok’s 2026 gubernatorial election on Sunday, with early results putting Chadchart Sittipunt, Mallika Boonmeetrakul Mahasuk and Chaiwat Sathawornwichit in the lead, as residents await a clear winner.

Officials began tallying ballots shortly after polls closed, with counting centres across the capital reporting steady progress. The Election Commission (EC) expects the process to conclude around 10pm, barring any last-minute surprises or the occasional calculator mishap.

Election officials said procedures were proceeding smoothly, with observers present at counting stations to ensure transparency. The contest has been closely followed by locals and expats alike, not only for its political implications but also for what it could mean for transport, air quality and the daily commute – among Bangkok’s perennial concerns.

The capital’s governorship carries significant influence over urban policy, and candidates have campaigned on promises ranging from flood management to public transport improvements. As always, voters now wait to see whether campaign slogans translate into real-world change – or, at the very least, fewer reasons to complain while stuck in city traffic.

The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has expanded charges in an online gambling network linked to Klatham Party MP for Songkhla Chonnaput Naksua, adding money-laundering and transnational crime offences.

A DSI source said that after investigators completed their inquiry and forwarded the case file to the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) on May 14, the OAG recommended that legal action be expanded to include six more suspects connected to the network.

All six were involved in operating the syndicate, the DSI said. A warrant has been issued for one suspect, while investigators gather evidence against the remaining five in line with the OAG’s recommendations.

The additional charges under consideration include membership of a secret criminal association, jointly running illegal online gambling without a permit, conspiracy to commit money laundering and taking part in a transnational criminal organisation, the source said.

The DSI’s Bureau of Technology and Information Inspection Centre said several suspects have already been prosecuted, with many believed to be operating from neighbouring countries.

Investigators are tracing financial transactions and assets tied to the network alongside the criminal proceedings. The additional charges against Mr Chonnaput will be filed formally after the current parliamentary session ends, as the House remains in session, the source said.

The new accusations expected against the MP include involvement in a secret criminal association, which carries a maximum of seven years in prison, and participation in a transnational criminal organisation, punishable by up to 15 years.

The case dates back to 2019. Mr Chonnaput reported to the DSI in March this year after receiving a summons. The Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo) ordered two rounds of asset seizures from him and his network worth about 160 million baht in total.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in partnership with the Bank of Thailand, financial institutions and other agencies, is accelerating the rollout of its Cross-Border QR Payment project to support digital tourism and promote seamless spending under the “Pay Like a Local” concept.

The scheme enables visitors from China, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, South Korea, Laos and Cambodia, as well as Hong Kong, to use their home mobile banking applications or e-wallets to pay Thai merchants directly through QR codes without exchanging cash or currency.

The agency said the initiative would improve travel convenience, strengthen confidence among international visitors and help Thai businesses adapt to growing demand for digital payment options. Participating merchants can register through leading Thai banks and international payment partners including Alipay, WeChat Pay and UnionPay.

Chadchart Sittipunt cruises to a clear victory in the Bangkok city election on Sunday, likely to earn a second term as governor of Thailand’s capital and largest metropolis.

According to vote counting reported by Thai PBS at 9.55pm, when 95% of cast ballots were counted, Mr Chadchart won 1.44 million votes or 68% of counted ballots, followed by about 288,000 votes (13%) for Mallika Boonmeetrakul Mahasuk, about 177,000 votes (8%) for Chaiwat Sathawornwichit of the People’s Party and about 102,000 votes (5%) for Democrat candidate Anucha Burapachaisri.

Mr Chadchart’s votes set a new record for a winning Bangkok governor candidate, surpassing his own record of 1.39 million votes from four years ago.

The win returns Mr Chadchart to the governorship for another four years, pending official confirmation by the Election Commission (EC).

Learning of the outcome, Mr Chadchart, a 60-year-old civil engineer and academic who ran as an independent candidate, said he was glad but not excited because he knew tough tasks awaited him and he would have to outperform his past work.

He vowed to ensure transparency in his work and apply technology to better manage the capital and improve education and health services, among other areas.

“The goal of work in the next four years is not the publication of achievements but success in proving to people that their lives will be noticeably better,” Mr Chadchart said.

Meanwhile, Ms Mallika thanked the people of Bangkok for their votes and said it reflected hopes for change in the metropolis. She also congratulated the winner.

Mr Chaiwat of the opposition People’s Party said he congratulated Mr Chadchart for his second victory and he wished his party could work for the city through its expected Bangkok councillors.

Democrat Party candidate Anucha also congratulated Mr Chadchart and said he would continue to scrutinise the performance of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to protect the public interest.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the Department of Local Administration in Bangkok late Saturday night and ordered tight protection of government civil service exam answer sheets pending further investigation into the nationwide results-rigging scandal.

Mr Anutin arrived at the department in Dusit district at 11.20pm on Saturday to check on security measures for the storage of documents and other files associated with the nationwide recruitment examination for local government officials.

Authorities have uncovered a huge bribery and results fraud network, raking in billions of baht.

The department organised the examination late last year to recruit nearly 7,000 local administration officials and results were announced early this year. Complaints led to the exposure of large-scale bribery as dishonest job seekers each allegedly paid 350,000-800,000 to corrupt officials for desired positions.

Late Saturday night the prime minister inspected rooms storing the documents and the rooms of officials in charge of the documents, and measures to restrict access to the answer sheets.

He ordered officials to maximise security measures around the clock and be prepared for unexpected fires or other untoward incidents, to protect the documents.

The documents were important evidence in the investigation into the scandal and which could lead to legal action against everyone responsible for it, Mr Anutin said.

A 57-year-old cheat caught sitting a civil service examination on behalf of a younger job seeker tried to explain away the difference in their looks by saying chemotherapy made him appear older.

Teerapat Kachamat, director-general of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, said a man aged 57 was arrested for pretending to be a 28-year-old man registered to sit the entrance exam for a position at the department, at Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University in Dusit district, Bangkok, on Saturday.

Supervisors at the examination venue noticed that he seemed out of place among the other job seekers. He was called aside for questioning. When they checked his ID card, he appeared older than the man in the photo. He tried to explain this away by saying he had cancer and the chemotherapy made his face look older.

Officials then checked his fingerprints, and they did not match those linked to the ID card he presented. The card actually belonged to a 28-year-old man who wanted a job at the department, but did not sit the exam himself.

The imposter was charged with making a false statement and using another person’s ID card to falsely identify himself.

The disaster mitigation department was recruiting 217 officials for a range of roles including jobs in planning, finance, accounting, science, civil work and legal affairs.