Protests update

[Up2U]

To be somewhat of a nit picker, your headline should in fact read more like this: "Llewellyn McCann explores what the royal succession might perhaps mean for Thai elite politics."
I have not read the article yet (though I shall) but the author is not Thai, which almost always means he will undoubtedly get some things wrong to one extent or another.
'Inscrutable' knows few bounds in Thai politics, much less royal politics.
I chose not to use the the article's main heading (I think we can understand why) and chose the article's subheading instead but I do agree with your point.

[Up2U]

Military forces closure of red-shirt charter referendum watch centers across nation
Submitted by editor2 on Fri, 17/06/2016
A key leader of the anti-establishment red shirt reported that the military ordered the red shirts referendum watch centers to be closed in many provinces. Meanwhile, the red shirt invited the UN for monitoring the draft charter referendum.... (read more)...
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6270

[Up2U]

EC vows 24-hour surveillance of charter 'saboteurs'
Published: 17/06/2016
PM Writer: Mongkol Bangprapa

The Election Commission says it will monitor electronic media around the clock to stop any attempt to "sabotage" the Aug 7 referendum by opponents of the draft constitution....(read more)....

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/1012957/ec-warns-anti-charter-saboteurs.

[Up2U]

PM gives alast warningto red shirts
Fraud centres 'will not be allowed'
Published: 19/06/2016
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has given a final warning to the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship not to open provincial fraud investigation centres ahead of the Aug 7 referendum.

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/general/1013825/pm-gives-alast-warningto-red-shirts.

[Up2U]

Little foreign interest in referendum
CHANIKARN PHUMHIRAN,
KHANITTHA THEPPHAJORN,
WASAMON AUDJARINT
THE SUNDAY NATION June 19, 2016
THE level of international scrutiny of the August 7 referendum on the charter draft is expected to be lacklustre, as only a few foreign institutions have so far approached the Election Commission (EC) about monitoring the event.

Key government figures have spoken out against... (read more)... http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Little-foreign-interest-in-referendum-30288523.html

[Up2U]

Reds to meet UN rights body over ‘threats’
CHANIKARN PHUMHIRAN,
JITRAPORN SENAWONG
THE NATION June 18, 2016
THE United Nations' human rights agency will meet red-shirt leaders on Monday to discuss claims that they are being threatened by the government over their plan to monitor possible fraud in the upcoming referendum on the draft constitution, red-shirt leaders said yesterday.

Red-shirt leaders Jatuporn Prompan and Nattawut Saikua said they yesterday submitted a complaint with Laurent Meillan, representative of the Office of United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Bangkok....(read more).... http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Reds-to-meet-UN-rights-body-over-threats-30288484.html

[Up2U]

SO-CALLED “SUCCESSION CRISIS” DOES NOT EXPLAIN DICTATORSHIP
JUNE 19, 2016 UGLYTRUTHTHAILAND
Giles Ji Ungpakorn
A couple of years ago it was fashionable for journalists and political commentators to try to explain the collapse of democracy in Thailand as being due to a “Succession Crisis”. The more extreme view was to predict... (read more)...
https://uglytruththailand.wordpress.com/2016/06/19/so-called-succession-crisis-does-not-explain-dictatorship/

[cdnmatt]

That last post might be getting a little too close to the lese-majeste law, no?

Ok, it's actually blatantly crossing over that line with complete disregard, so I'm assuming the author of that article doesn't live in Thailand, and has no intentions of visiting any time soon.

[scottish-guy]

Oh the law is a minefield even in enlightened countries so I'll leave Surfy to fret over Up2U's posts.

I'm more interested in his profile pic and wondering how any Virgin Queen would fare in Thailand!!

:cool:

[Up2U]

That last post might be getting a little too close to the lese-majeste law, no?

Ok, it's actually blatantly crossing over that line with complete disregard, so I'm assuming the author of that article doesn't live in Thailand, and has no intentions of visiting any time soon.

About the author: "Giles Ji Ungpakorn
Giles Ji Ungpakorn (Thai: ใจ อึ๊งภากรณ์; rtgs: Chai Uengphakon; IPA: [tɕāj ʔɯ́ŋ.pʰāː.kɔ̄ːn]; born 25 October 1953) is a Thai-British academic and political activist. He formerly worked as an associate professor on the Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University, before he fled to the United Kingdom after facing a lèse majesté charge in Thailand."
The heading of the link pretty well hides the contents of Article. His discussion I have heard before by Thai historians and academics although they wouldn't publish their comments within Thailand for obvious reasons.

[Up2U]

UDD referendum fraud centres stopped by police
Published: 19/06/2016 at 11:46 AM

Police have been deployed all around Imperial Lat Phra department store to prevent the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship from launching its system of provincial centres designed to monitor...(read more)...

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/1014345/udd-referendum-fraud-centres-stopped-by-police.

[Up2U]

Junta leader retracts earlier statement, prohibiting referendum watch centers
Submitted by editor2 on Mon, 20/06/2016
Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha, the junta leader and Prime Minister, retracted his earlier statement on the allowance of the anti-establishment red shirt’s referendum watch centers, finalising that opening such center is prohibited.... (read more)...
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6272

[Up2U]

Editorial Opinion Referendum is a mess
Published: 20/06/2016

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has reversed an earlier pledge to stay clear of the debate on the national referendum on the draft constitution. After several weeks of insisting he would let the... (read more)...
http://m.bangkokpost.com/opinion/1014721?refer=https%3A%2F%2Ft.co%2F6noTpOaFXA

[Up2U]

Royalists gather for supporting lѐse majesté law
Submitted by editor2 on Mon, 20/06/2016
A network of vocational school alumnus and many other royalists urged people to protect the monarchy, pressing the government to prosecute people who insulted the Thai monarchy.... (read more)...
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6273

[Up2U]

PM and red shirts take their battle to the United Nations
WASAMON AUDJARINT
ANAPAT DEECHUAY
JUTHATHIP LUCKSANAWONG
THE NATION June 21, 2016
THE RED shirts and the prime minister both reached out yesterday to the United Nations in an apparent bid to make their case over the government decision to shut down anti-fraud centres watching over the upcoming referendum

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha yesterday called up UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to clarify the government's decision to shut down the centres..... (read more)....
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/PM-and-red-shirts-take-their-battle-to-the-United--30288670.html

[cdnmatt]

What exactly do they expect the UN to do? Get NATO to summon a force and invade Thailand, or what???

[Up2U]

Amnesty International issues Urgent Action appeal for 3 Thai human rights defenders
Submitted by editor4 on Tue, 21/06/2016
Amnesty International has today issued a worldwide Urgent Action appeal for Somchai Homla-or, Pornpen Khongkachonkiet, and Anchana Heemmina, who have been charged by the Thai military with criminal defamation and violations of the Computer Crimes Act.... (read more).... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6279

[Up2U]

Freedom of expressions crucial for ‘just’ charter referendum: academics
Submitted by editor2 on Tue, 21/06/2016
Academics and human rights advocates have demanded the authorities to amend a controversial act barring people to freely criticise the junta-sponsored draft constitution, saying that opinions from all sides are crucial for the draft charter referendum.

Academics from Institute of Human Rights and Peace Studies (IHRP) of Mahidol University, and human rights advocates from iLaw and Union of Civil Liberties (UCL) gathered at Pridi Phanomyong Square in Thammasat University, Tha Prachan Campus, Bangkok, to read a joint statement titled ‘Referendum, Freedom and Liberties’.... (read more)... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6280

[Up2U]

CDC to seek help from NCPO to deal with “thugs” for obstructing draft charter clarification
in Politics | June 21, 2016
The Constitution Drafting Committee will consult with the National Council for Peace and Order, the Election Commission and security agencies on how to deal with intimidation against officials tasked with clarifying the content of the draft constitution to the public.... (read more)...
http://englishnews.thaipbs.or.th/cdc-seek-help-ncpo-deal-thugs-obstructing-draft-charter-clarification/

[Up2U]

Authorities want the best for activist and protesters
Submitted by editor4 on Tue, 21/06/2016
Austin Silvan
As a Canadian Masters student who is researching development practices in Thailand, and works at Prachatai, I often hear and read about conflicts between authorities and activists. After observing interactions between the two groups this past weekend, from the explanations given by the authorities for their interventions at least, it seems like they are there just to help out! Let me explain....(read more)...
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6281

[Up2U]

UDD bosses called in over gatherings
Published: 23/06/2016
The Crime Suppression Division (CSD) has summoned 19 core members of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) to answer charges of violating the regime's ban on political gatherings. The... (read more)...

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/1017333/udd-bosses-called-in-over-gatherings.

[Up2U]

Authorities bar activists from distributing ‘vote no’ flyers
Submitted by editor4 on Thu, 23/06/2016
A flyer battle began when authorities attempted to prohibit pro-democracy activists from handing out flyers campaigning to ‘vote no’ in the August referendum while junta-volunteer flyer distributors faced difficulty and resistance from local people.... (read more)....
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6289

[Up2U]

Pro-democracy activists face charges over draft referendum campaign
Submitted by editor2 on Fri, 24/06/2016
Update: Anon Nampa, human rights lawyer, reported at 9:20 am on Friday, 24 June 2016, that the police refused to grant bail to some of the pro-democracy activists and filed an additional charge against the 13 activists for refusing to sign the police report.

The Thai authorities accused 13 pro-democracy activists of violating the junta’s political gathering ban for distributing flyers campaigning for the upcoming draft constitution referendum.... (read more)....
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6292

[Up2U]

ON ANNIVERSARY OF DEMOCRACY, COPS INTERCEPT AND ARREST OBSERVERS (PHOTOS)
By Teeranai Charuvastra, Staff Reporter - June 24, 2016
BANGKOK — Police this morning pre-emptively arrested activists en route to commemorate the 84th anniversary of democracy in Thailand.

The arrest of activists for recognizing an occasion once celebrated as a national holiday marks a further uptick in the junta’s suppression of its critics and comes a day after 13 others were arrested and charged for campaigning against the regime-backed draft constitution..... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/06/24/anniversary-democracy-cops-intercept-arrest-observers/

[Up2U]

Thailand: English translation of draft Constitution

http://www.icj.org/thailand-english-translation-of-draft-constitution/

[Up2U]

‘VOTE NO’ CAMPAIGNERS TO BE TRIED BY MILITARY
By Teeranai Charuvastra, Staff Reporter - June 24, 2016
BANGKOK — Thirteen activists arrested Thursday for campaigning against the junta-backed constitution will stand trial before a military tribunal on charges of violating the ban on political protests.

In further evidence the regime is not tolerating any dissent in the run-up to the charter referendum on Aug. 7, all of the activists, including members of the New Democracy Movement, were brought to the martial court just before 2pm to hear the charges which could see them jailed up to two years.... (READ MORE)....
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/06/24/vote-no-campaigners-tried-military/

[Up2U]

Thailand jails activists for campaigning to reject constitution in referendum
Thirteen people arrested while handing out leaflets urging people to vote no in referendum on draft constitution
Reuters
Saturday 25 June 2016
A Thai court jailed seven activists on Friday for campaigning against a military-backed draft constitution which will be put to a referendum in August.

Authorities arrested 13 people on Thursday while they were handing out leaflets urging people to vote against the charter. Six were released on bail, a lawyer for the group said, while the rest chose not to post bail.... (read more)...
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/jun/25/thailand-jails-activists-for-campaigning-to-reject-constitution-in-referendum

[Up2U]

Academics bemoan Thailand’s poor democratic progress
The Nation
June 25, 2016
Academics expressed their pessimism over Thai democracy 84 years after the country abandoned absolute monarchy and became a constitutional monarchy.
The academics took part in a panel discussion on "The Future of Thailand and Transition to Democracy" on Friday.
They agreed that Thailand's democratic development suffered from interruptions from military coups.
They blamed military dictatorships for the slow progress of the Kingdom's democracy.
.... (read more)...
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Academics-bemoan-Thailands-poor-democratic-progres-30289058.html

[Up2U]

Senate ‘could choose as many PMs as needed in five years’
THE SUNDAY NATION June 26, 2016
DEPUTY Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam yesterday put doubts to rest over how many times appointed senators would select a prime minister under the draft constitution.

In the August 7 referendum, voters will cast ballots on whether to reject or accept the charter and they will answer an additional referendum question on whether they agree with allowing the Senate to pick the PM during the Senate's five-year term. Some observers believe the Senate and MPs can jointly select the PM at least twice.

But Wissanu said the Senate could select the PM as many times as needed based on circumstances.... (read more)... http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Senate-could-choose-as-many-PMs-as-needed-in-five--30289129.html

[Up2U]

Burin Intin: from a welder sympathetic to the Red Shirts to lèse majesté detainee
Submitted by editor1 on Mon, 27/06/2016
Burin Intin, a 28-year-old welder from northern Thailand, was arrested during an anti-coup “Stand Still” protest, held on 27 April 2016, at the Victory Monument in Bangkok. Unlike other group members who were arrested and subsequently released, Burin was promptly charged with two counts of lèse majesté. He was denied bail, has been detained until today and is now on his third custody order, without much public knowledge.

When hearing his name, many people may wonder who Burin is. Burin is not a high-profile political activist nor a layperson who frequently appears in political gatherings so that people remember his face. Burin is simply a “nobody”, and this may be the reason why the public has been so quiet regarding his detention.... (read more)...
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6291

[Up2U]

Article 61 ruling ‘crucial to rights’
The Nation June 27, 2016
THE government has been accused of applying a heavy hand in restricting freedom of expression ahead of the referendum on August 7.

In response, human rights advocates and scholars have petitioned the Constitutional Court via the Ombudsman for a ruling whether the referendum's key legal mechanism, Article 61 of the new referendum law, violates people's rights as guaranteed under the interim constitution.

The court will rule on the issue on Wednesday.... (read more)...
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Article-61-ruling-crucial-to-rights-30289186.html

[Up2U]

June 27, 2016
Thai PM says won't resign whatever August referendum outcome
REUTERS/ATHIT PERAWONGMETHA
Thailand's Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha said on Monday he would not resign if Thais reject a military-backed draft constitution when they vote in a referendum in August.

Prayuth heads the ruling junta, or National Council for Peace and Order, that took power after a bloodless coup toppled Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra's elected government in May 2014 coup.

The military had justified the coup, saying it had acted to restore stability after months of street demonstrations in Bangkok had paralyzed Yingluck's government.

"I won't resign. I am the one who lays out the rules for this country," Prayuth told... (read more)....
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-thailand-politics-idUSKCN0ZD0R1

[Up2U]

THAI ELECTION MONITOR FUMES OVER BEING BARRED FROM THAI REFERENDUM
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - June 27, 2016
BANGKOK — After waiting months for official accreditation, the head of a nonpartisan domestic election monitoring group said he was dismayed to learn Monday that no Thai organizations would be granted status for the upcoming charter referendum.... (read more)... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/06/27/thai-elections-monitor-fumes-barred-thai-referendum/

[Up2U]

THAILAND: How coup d’état undermined fair trial concept
Submitted by editor1 on Tue, 28/06/2016
Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC)
Thailand is a constitutional monarchy, where the king serves as head of state and has traditionally exerted political influence. In May 2014, military and police leaders, taking the name of the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) led by General Prayuth Chan-o-cha, overthrew the interim government led by the Pheu Thai political party. The NCPO replaced the 2007 Constitution with an interim constitution.

The NCPO has maintained control over the security forces and all government institutions since the coup. With regards to the justice system, prior to the coup, the Thai justice system was recognized as independent and the government generally respected it. Since the NCPO overthrew the interim government.... (read more)....
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6302

[Up2U]

“It’s not wrong to campaign,” new activist group protests with symbolic balloons in Khon Kaen
Posted on 06/28/2016 by The Isaan Record
KHON KAEN – On Monday afternoon, a newly formed activist group gathered at Si Than Lake on Khon Kaen University campus to protest against the ban on public campaigns to reject the draft constitution and military government’s intimidation of activists in the run-up to the charter referendum on August 7.

Seven activists released balloons showing the slogan “It’s not wrong to campaign,” and read a statement urging the military government to lift the ban on public campaigning and allow freedom of expression.... (read more)...
http://isaanrecord.com/2016/06/28/its-not-wrong-to-campaign-new-activist-group-protests-with-symbolic-balloons-in-khon-kaen/

[Up2U]

Prayut coy over 'back-up plan'
Abhisit wants clarity on charter options
Published: 29/06/2016
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha says there's no problem if he loses the referendum...(read more)...
http://m.bangkokpost.com/news/102237...kokpost.com%2F

[Up2U]

Thailand defeated in UNSC bid
Published: 29/06/2016
UNITED NATIONS - Kazakhstan easily defeated Thailand's bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, with just 55 countries backing Thailand against 138 for Kazakhstan.... (read more)... http://m.bangkokpost.com/news/1022325?refer=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bangkokpost.com%2F

[Up2U]

Tue Jun 28, 2016 |
Exclusive - U.S. to upgrade Thailand in annual human trafficking report
By Jason Szep, Matt Spetalnick and Andrew R.C. Marshall | WASHINGTON/BANGKOK
(Reuters) - The United States has decided to remove Thailand from its list of worst human trafficking offenders, officials said, a move that could help smooth relations with Bangkok’s military-run government.... (read more)....
http://uk.mobile.reuters.com/article/idUKKCN0ZE2NN

[Up2U]

REFERENDUM LAW UPHELD AS PRAYUTH UNVEILS ‘PLAN B’
Drafting Do-Over Could See Elections Delayed Years
By Teeranai Charuvastra, Staff Reporter - June 29, 2016
BANGKOK — The Constitutional Court today affirmed the legality of a draconian law barring campaigning before the charter draft is put to an August vote on a day which also saw the junta finally answer what will happen if it goes down in defeat.... (read more)... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/06/29/referendum-law-upheld-prayuth-unveils-plan-b/

[Up2U]

Freedom of expression unneccessary for Thailand: Deputy Junta Head
Submitted by editor4 on Wed, 29/06/2016
The deputy junta head has said this was not proper a time to demand for the freedom of expression since the country is now in the ‘transitional period,’ adding that the arrest of the anti-junta activists was not a human rights violation.... (read more)...
http://www.prachatai.org/english/node/6308

[Surfcrest]

http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/general/1023293/prayut-urges-end-to-eating-exotic-animals

Prayut urges end to eating exotic animals

The good General is urging an end to eating exotic animals. :clapping:

Surfcrest

[Surfcrest]

http://thainews.prd.go.th/website_en/news/news_detail/WNPOL5906290010008

PM affirms continued effort against corruption


The Good General has announced his administration is now approaching the end of the second phase of its National Reform Road Map, which calls for serious eradication of graft. :clapping:

Surfcrest

...it's not all bad.

[fountainhall]

The Good General has announced his administration is now approaching the end of the second phase of its National Reform Road Map, which calls for serious eradication of graft. :clapping:

Surfcrest

...it's not all bad.
. . . until he announces that the Road Map has a highway running the length and breadth of the country with thousands of twists and turns on the way. Eradicating corruption? Reaching even first base is going to be extremely touch and go.

He sounds far too like Thaksin standing on his soapbox announcing that after murdering 2,500 or so citizens he had wiped out drugs! And we know what a lie that was!

[Up2U]

POSITIVE REACTION TO US UPGRADE OF THAILAND IN TRAFFICKING REPORT
What will it mean for Thai-American relations? That's less clear.
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - June 30, 2016
BANGKOK — Critics and human rights activists agreed Thailand deserves to be removed from the United States’ list of the worst human trafficking offenders, as was expected to be announced Thursday night.... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/06/30/positive-reaction-us-upgrade-thailand-trafficking-report/

[Up2U]

Climate of fear not our fault: election commissioner
Submitted by editor1 on Fri, 01/07/2016
Kornkritch Somjittranukit
An election commissioner has claimed that the public trend to self-censor their opinion towards the charter draft because of the climate of fear which was not the commission’s fault, adding that if people want to know what exactly they can or cannot do during the referendum, they should better asked the junta.

On Thursday, 30 June 2016, Somchai Srisuthiyakorn, a commissioner of the Election Commission of Thailand (ECT), told media at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Thailand that the commission never suppressed a free discussion on the charter draft or the August referendum... (read more)....
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6314

[Up2U]

JUNTA’S CONVENIENCE AND LAW
July 1, 2016
At PPT we’ve recently had several posts that have commented on aspects of the militarization of the law under the military dictatorship as well as its concoction of “laws” that serve its interests, mainly by allowing the ready repression of opponents.

The Bangkok Post recently reported on how such circumstances are manipulated for junta convenience for the web....(read more)...
https://politicalprisonersofthailand.wordpress.com/2016/07/01/juntas-convenience-and-law/

[Up2U]

Meechai fails to quash talk of parties being dissolved
KHANITTHA THEPPAJORN,
PRAPHAN JINDALERTUDOMDEE
THE SUNDAY NATION July 3, 2016
THE CHIEF constitution drafter has not ruled out the possibility of there being a legal requirement for existing political parties to re-register ahead of the next general election.

But he insisted that such a requirement did not exist in the draft constitution, to be voted on in a referendum on August 7.... (read more)....
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Meechai-fails-to-quash-talk-of-parties-being-disso-30289676.html

[Up2U]

Majority undecided on charter vote
03/07/2016
A majority of people are still undecided about how to vote in the Aug 7 charter referendum, according to the result of an opinion poll by National Institute for Development Administration, or Nida Poll.

Nida's sixth survey on the charter referendum was conducted on June 28-29 on 1,500 people aged 18 and over of all levels of education and various occupations throughout the country.... (read more)...
http://m.bangkokpost.com/news/1026453?refer=https%3A%2F%2Ft.co%2FvAvbCHQWUB

[Up2U]

UNCEASING REPRESSION
July 3, 2016
Anti-election Election Commissioner Somchai Srisuthiyakorn has a remarkable capacity for supporting anti-democratic campaigns while being disingenuous about his motivations.

Most recently, Prachatai reports that the EC’s chief bozo has “told the media at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Thailand that the Commission never suppressed a free discussion on the draft charter or the August referendum.”

This comes just days after the very same Somchai.... (read more)... https://politicalprisonersofthailand.wordpress.com/2016/07/03/unceasing-repression/

[Up2U]

Junta duplicates red-shirt referendum watchdog centres
Submitted by editor4 on Mon, 04/07/2016
After shutting down red-shirt referendum watch centres, the junta has established its own one nationwide for the sake of the so-called ‘peaceful, clean, fair, independent, and unbiased’ referendum while a red shirt leader said the junta’s centres aimed to dictate the referendum result.....(read more)....
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6319

[Up2U]

REDSHIRT TV STATION EXPECTS TO BE ORDERED OFF AIR UNTIL AFTER REFERENDUM
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - July 4, 2016
BANGKOK — A Redshirt television station will be ordered to shut down for 30 days according to a source at the telecommunications regulator.

The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission will suspend the license of Peace TV, a Redshirt satellite station, for allegedly violating a junta order not to incite social unrest or misinform the public, according to an commission staff member who asked not to be identified as a formal announcement was yet issued.

Weng Tojirakarn, a Redshirt leader and program host, denied the station has violated junta orders.... (read more)... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/04/redshirt-tv-station-ordered-off-air-referendum/

[Up2U]

Red and Yellow in Germany
REVIEWER: NICK NOSTITZ, GUEST CONTRIBUTOR 04 JUL, 2016
Nick Nostitz reports from a special symposium on Thailand’s rolling political crisis.

http://www.newmandala.org/red-and-yellow-in-germany/

[Up2U]

COURT FREES 7 ACTIVISTS
By Teeranai Charuvastra, Staff Reporter - July 5, 2016
BANGKOK — Military judges Tuesday afternoon ordered all 13 activists be released without bail.

The military court ruled they should be freed to await trial without posting bail, as police investigators had already examined witnesses and evidence. Though they prevailed in winning release without posting bail, the activists played down the outcome.... (read more)....
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/05/court-frees-7-activists-2/

[Up2U]

Draft Referendum Act encourages social reconciliation: Constitutional Court
Submitted by editor4 on Tue, 05/07/2016
The Constitutional Court has analysed that the controversial Draft Referendum Act is constitutional, citing national peace and order and unique context of the August referendum, adding that the law actually fostered the so-called ‘social reconciliation.’

On 29 June, the Constitutional Court made a unanimous decision to rule that the Article 61 of the Draft Referendum Act was constitutional despite various condemnations for its legal ambiguity, excessive punishment, and suppression of freedom of expression....(read more)....
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6325?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

[Up2U]

PRISON CONDITIONS IN THAILAND ARE A CRIME AGAINST HUMANITY
JULY 3, 2016
Giles Ji Ungpakorn
In mid-June 2016 Somyot Preuksakasemsuk wrote a letter exposing the shocking deterioration of conditions for prisoners in Thai jails.

Since March 2016 the Department of Prisons has issued a number of new regulations that have reduced the standards of life and well-being for prisoners. This amounts to a gross abuse of human rights.

Firstly, the prison authorities have removed all mattresses,.... (read more)....
https://uglytruththailand.wordpress.com/2016/07/03/prison-conditions-in-thailand-are-a-crime-against-humanity/

[Up2U]

UN REFUTES ROSY THAI ACCOUNT OF MEETING OVER REFERENDUM, RIGHTS
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - July 6, 2016
BANGKOK — The Office of U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon took the highly unusual step of refuting a Thai delegation’s account of a meeting held late last month on the referendum and freedom of expression.

In the statement released Tuesday, the U.N. said Thai officials mischaracterized to Thai media the meeting held 29 June between Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson and Virasakdi Futrakul, Foreign Affairs vice minister....(read more).....
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/06/un-issues-refutes-rosy-thai-account-meeting-referendum-rights/

[Up2U]

ILAW SUES TO GET ‘ONE-SIDED’ REFERENDUM SHOW TAKEN OFF AIR
By Teeranai Charuvastra, Staff Reporter - July 6, 2016
BANGKOK — Legal reform advocates sued elections officials today over a state-produced TV show they say has been entirely devoted to praising the proposed constitution that will soon be put to public referendum.

As the Election Commission’s referendum program has so far only featured proponents of the new charter, law reform activists said it’s guilty of violating its own draconian campaign law and overstepping its mandate as an impartial organizer of the Aug. 7 poll.... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/06/ilaw-sues-get-one-sided-referendum-show-taken-off-air/

[Up2U]

Surveillance increases in new computer crime bill: rights advocates
Submitted by editor2 on Thu, 07/07/2016
Civil society groups have urged lawmakers not to pass the new Computer Crime bill, as it further violates the rights to freedom of expression and to privacy.

Representatives from the Thai Netizen Network (TNN), an internet freedom advocacy group, on Thursday, 6 July 2016, submitted a petition to Peerasak Porjit, Deputy president of the National Legislative Assembly (NLA), urging the authorities to halt the process to pass the the amended version of the Computer Crime Act.... (read more)....
http://www.prachatai.org/english/node/6337

[Up2U]

Thai PM doubles down, bans discussion of draft constitution ahead of referendum
By Richard S. Ehrlich - Special to The Washington Times - - Monday, July 4, 2016
BANGKOK — Thailand’s new constitution was supposed to bring at least the appearance of legitimacy and normalcy for the government of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha.... (read more)....
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2016/jul/4/prayuth-chan-ocha-bans-discussion-of-thailand-draf/

[Up2U]

German lawmakers denounce Thailand’s draft constitution
By Nicole Sagener | EurActiv.de | Translated By Samuel Morgan Jul 7, 2016

Thailand's military junta has been told to ensure the draft constitution can be debated by Thai citizens without fear of reprisal. This seems unlikely to happen. The Thai government is increasingly cracking down on its critics, warned the German government’s foreign affairs committee ahead of the Southeast Asian country’s vote on its new constitution. EurActiv Germany reports.

A month ahead of Thailand’s constitutional referendum on 7 August, the Foreign Affairs Committee of the German Bundestag has criticised the content of the current draft, put together by the military government, headed by General Prayuth Chan-ocha.... (read more)... https://www.euractiv.com/section/global-europe/news/german-lawmakers-denounce-thailands-draft-constitution/

[Up2U]

Thailand’s referendum and the lessons of Brexit
John Draper, Peerasit Kamnuansilpa
Special to The Nation July 8, 2016
Beware of the social consequences that follow the rhetoric of polarisation

One of the first social consequences of the UK vote to exit the EU has been an increase in race-based hate crimes perpetrated by Britain's far-right movements. The Leave campaign employed excellent arguments, such as corruption in states benefiting from transfers from wealthier countries. However, the social consequences of the vote reflect a discourse of polarisation and hatred of the "Other" which underpins extremist organisations, not just in Europe, but throughout the world, including Thailand....(read more)...
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/opinion/Thailands-referendum-and-the-lessons-of-Brexit-30290044.html

[Up2U]

Those behind ‘fake’ booklet face jail: PM
THE NATION July 9, 2016
THE prime minister yesterday warned that "many people will be put in jail", as the authorities investigate the source of funding for the publication of a booklet on the draft constitution described by the drafters as containing false and distorted information.... (read more).... http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Those-behind-fake-booklet-face-jail-PM-30290146.html

[Up2U]

#Thailand government needs to clear the path back to democracy, says #Bundestag
EU Reporter Correspondent | July 7, 2016
The German Bundestag raised the situation in Thailand as the first item on the agenda of the Foreign Affairs Committee yesterday. Following their deliberations on the constitutional referendum to be held on 7 August in Thailand, the Chair, Deputy Chair and the Spokespersons of the Foreign Affairs Committee jointly noted:

“Two years after it took over power, the Thai military government under General Prayuth Chan-ocha needs to keep its promise to clear the path back to democracy. This entails guarantees for the freedom of opinion, and for freedom of the press, as well as recognising opposition parties and preparing for free parliamentary elections. Both the House of Representatives and the Senate have been dissolved for over two years, and have been replaced by an assembly nominated by the Military Council.... (read more)...
https://www.eureporter.co/frontpage/2016/07/07/thai-government-needs-to-clear-the-path-back-to-democracy-says-bundestag/

[Up2U]

Climate of fear must stop Published: 09/07/2016
Writer: Editorial
Are people allowed to campaign freely for or against the draft charter? The question is straightforward enough. If... (read more)....

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/opinion/opinion/1031461/climate-of-fear-must-stop.

[Up2U]

THE BIZARRE ‘REFERENDUM’ PROCESS
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - July 9, 2016
How much meat must a sausage contain in order for it to be labelled as a genuine meat sausage? How absurd can a referendum process get before it can no longer be called a genuine referendum?.... (read more)..... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/opinion/2016/07/09/bizarre-referendum-process/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

[Up2U]

JUNTA SPOKESMAN SAYS NDM STUDENTS SHOULD STICK TO CLASSROOMS
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - July 9, 2016
BANGKOK — Junta spokesman Col. Piyapong Klinphan said on Saturday that members of the New Democracy Movement (NDM) should return to school and cease political activities, adding that the group’s financial transactions will be scrutinized to check for any “irregularities.”.... (read more)....
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/09/junta-spokesman-says-ndm-students-stick-classrooms/

[Up2U]

New Democracy group to continue protest against draft charter
in Politics | July 10, 2016
Student activists of the New Democracy Movement have vowed to carry on with their campaign against the draft constitution in open defiance against the NCPO order banning political gathering of more than five people in public.... (read more)...
http://englishnews.thaipbs.or.th/new-democracy-group-to-continue-protest-against-draft-charter/

[Up2U]

The junta’s referendum and legitimacy
July 10, 2016
There has been almost no real discussion of the military’s long, complicated and fundamentally anti-democratic charter. That draft charter goes to a junta-managed and mangled referendum within a month.

The Bangkok Post has an editorial that is a call for discussion and debate that would grant a modicum of legitimacy to the referendum. It essentially pleads with the junta to allow some debate:... (read more)...
https://thaipoliticalprisoners.wordpress.com/2016/07/10/the-juntas-referendum-and-legitimacy/

[Up2U]

Over 77% plan to vote in charter referendum
THE SUNDAY NATION July 10, 2016
MORE THAN three-quarters of people polled in a new survey intend to vote in the August 7 referendum on the draft constitution, and more than 40 per cent will vote “yes”.

The poll found that 77.7 per cent of the 1,733 respondents in all four regions of the country plan to cast their ballots....(read more)....
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Over-77-plan-to-vote-in-charter-referendum-30290190.html

[Up2U]

Prachatai journalist detained while reporting on referendum
Submitted by editor1 on Sun, 10/07/2016
A Prachatai journalist has been detained by police while he was reporting activities of New Democracy Movement (NDM) in central Ratchaburi Province. Three NDM activists are also detained.

The four were detained after the police searched a car of the activists and found copies of NDM’s booklet which provide counter information to the junta’s on the draft constitution....(read more).... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6344

[Up2U]

NO SUCH THING AS THE “DEEP STATE” IN THAILAND
JULY 10, 2016
Giles Ji Ungpakorn
The theory of the “Deep State” often wrongly presupposes that there is such a thing as a “regular state” which is visible, accountable and serves the people. The Deep State is supposed to be a unique set up in some countries appearing as “a state within a state” which is unaccountable to democratically elected governments. This flies in the face of reality.... (read more)....
https://uglytruththailand.wordpress.com/2016/07/10/no-such-thing-as-the-deep-state-in-thailand/

[Up2U]

The proposed draft Constitution in English.

https://politicalprisonersofthailand.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/constitution-of-thailand-2016-03-29-draft-enhanced.pdf

[Up2U]

Thai youth activism rekindling hope
KRIANGSAK TEERAKOWITKAJORN - 11 JUL, 2016
Are new protest movements driven by young people enough to inspire citizens and save the country’s ever-decreasing democratic hopes?

Once upon a time, there was a land of smiles. Now, with the bleak economy, and the rising household debts of the working class, some are calling Thailand ‘the sick man of Southeast Asia.’

The political deadlock has reached the point where ordinary Thais have almost forgotten how it started in the first place. Everyday it seems, the junta introduces new, more worrisome, problems— take the Single Gateway for instance.... (read more)....
http://www.newmandala.org/thai-youth-activism-rekindling-hope-inspiration/

[Up2U]

Editorial Opinion Debate, not hide the facts
Published: 11/07/2016
In three weeks and six days, the nation is to vote on whether to make permanent the fourth constitution... (read more)...

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/opinion/opinion/1032769/debate-not-hide-the-facts

[Up2U]

If referendum fails, I will draft constitution myself: Thai junta head
Submitted by editor4 on Mon, 11/07/2016
Despite his lack of legal knowledge, the junta leader has said that he will draft another constitution himself if the draft charter is rejected in the August referendum, adding that there is nothing he cannot do as he already passed parachute training in the military....(read more)....
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6351

[cdnmatt]

Honesly, I don't quite understand why there is even a vote. Theatrics, I guess. Obviously, the result will be "yes", because that's what the junta wants, and they seem pretty good at getting what they want.

[Up2U]

Plainclothes authorities search Prachatai office
Submitted by editor4 on Tue, 12/07/2016
After releasing Prachatai journalist, authorities, both soldiers and police officers in plainclothes, came to the office with a search warrant, asking the director about Prachatai’s involvement with the anti-junta activist group. The authorities also searched journalists’ personal lockers.

On Tuesday, 12 July 2016, five plainclothes police officers from Suthisan Police station, along with a few soldiers, came to Prachatai with a search warrant. The authorities searched Prachatai office and the personal desk of Taweesak Kerdphoka, Prachatai journalist who was detained for reporting on referendum two days ago, as well as his friend desks.... (read more).....
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6355

[Up2U]

Human Rights Watch
JULY 12, 2016
Thailand: Activists, Journalist Arrested for Vote-No Campaign
Junta Further Restricts Criticism of Draft Constitution
(New York) – Thai authorities arrested four activists campaigning against the military junta’s draft constitution and a journalist reporting on the campaign, Human Rights Watch said today. A referendum on the proposed constitution is scheduled for August 7, 2016..... (read more)....
https://www.hrw.org/news/2016/07/12/thailand-activists-journalist-arrested-vote-no-campaign

[Up2U]

No, I won't draft charter myself: junta head reclaims earlier statement
Submitted by editor4 on Tue, 12/07/2016
The junta head has reclaimed his earlier statement that he will draft another constitution himself if the August referendum fails, saying that it was just a slip of the tongue. He also blamed media for highlighting his thoughtless words and making him out of temper.... (read more)....
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6357

[Up2U]

NO MORE THAN 22 ELECTION OBSERVERS EXPECTED NATIONWIDE FOR REFERENDUM
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - July 12, 2016
BANGKOK — Up to 22 regional elections observers will observe the Aug. 7 referendum, the chairman of the Election Commission said Tuesday.

While all Thai observers have been denied credentials to monitor the vote, chairman Somchai Srisutthiyakorn said both the Asia Foundation and Asian Network... (read more).... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/12/no-22-election-observers-expected-nationwide-referendum/

[Up2U]

No talks on lèse majesté law, referendum, politics allowed: military in Isaan
Submitted by editor4 on Wed, 13/07/2016
The Thai military prohibited discussants at a public forum in Isaan, Thailand’s northeast, to talk about politics, referendum, and the lèse majesté law. The authorities however ironically allow them to talk about human right issues only.

On Friday, 8 July 2016, about 15 soldiers and police in uniforms and plainclothes led by Lt Col Phitakphon Chusri, unit leader of the junta’s so-called peace-keeping force in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen, intervened at a public forum titled ‘Freedom of Expression in Isaan’, the Thai Lawyers for Human Rights (TLHR) reported.

The forum featured discussions on environmental justice and freedom of expression in Isaan, and was organised by the Isaan Record, an independent news website in the region, at the Khon Kaen Hotel.... (read more)....
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6360

[Up2U]

What you need to know about Thailand’s controversial constitution referendum
by Thitipol Panyalimpanun | 13th July 2016
JUST a few weeks from now, on August 7, Thailand will hold a referendum on the latest draft constitution for the coup-ridden nation – one that has scrapped 19 constitutions since 1932.... (read more)... https://asiancorrespondent.com/2016/07/thailand-constitution-referendum/

[Up2U]

Another 2,000 anti-draft charter letters found in Chiang Mai
Submitted by editor4 on Wed, 13/07/2016
Authorities have confiscated over 2,000 letters from anonymous senders containing information against the junta’s draft charter in the northern province of Chiang Mai while another 3,000 was found in Lampang a day earlier.

On Wednesday, 13 July 2016, Maj Gen Koson Prathumchat, the commander of 33rd Army Circle, along with police officers, confiscated 2,000 letters campaign against the junta’s draft charter from a post office in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand. The authorities suspected that the letters aim to persuade people to vote ‘No’ in the August draft charter referendum by distorting the draft’s content, Matichon Online reported... (read more)....
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6362

[Up2U]

JUNTA GRANTS AUTHORITIES LEGAL IMMUNITY TO REGULATE MEDIA
By Sasiwan Mokkhasen, Staff Reporter - July 14, 2016
BANGKOK — Junta chief Prayuth Chan-ocha Thursday granted special powers for authorities to regulate any TV or radio stations considered to be a threat to national security.

In the order, which came into immediate effect Thursday by the use of the absolute power granted to the junta chief under Article 44 of the interim charter, authorities such as the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission will be shielded from any legal responsibilities when regulating any broadcast media reports deemed as threatening national security or instigating unrest..... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/14/junta-grants-authorities-legal-immunity-regulate-media/

[Up2U]

DEMOCRAT PARTY LAUNCHES ANTI-CHARTER CAMPAIGN? WAIT A MINUTE!
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - July 14, 2016
BANGKOK — The Democrat Party appeared to launch a slick online campaign Thursday featuring its top leaders criticizing and opposing the draft charter promoted by the junta, complete with the party’s logo and branding, except for one catch. Reached for comment, party leadership said he has no clue where it came from.... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/14/democrat-party-launches-anti-charter-campaign-wait-minute/

[Up2U]

[Thailand] Op-ed: Reason to worry about Article 61
BY SEAPA CATEGORY: CAMPAIGNS, PROGRAMS JULY 12, 2016
SEAPA Op-ed – Journalist Thaweesak Kerdpoka’s arrest on Sunday should be a cause for worry for members of the Thai covering the referendum.

Online news site Prachatai reporter Thaweesak was arrested, along with three others, on 10 July for violating Article 61 of the 2016 Referendum Act. Another person was also arrested for the same violation later that day.... (read more)...
https://www.seapa.org/op-ed-reason-to-worry-about-article-61/

[Up2U]

Junta tightens grip on media
ATTAYUTH BOOTSRIPOOM,
WATCHIRANONT THONGTEP
THE NATION July 15, 2016
NBTC given sweeping powers to shutter outlets, ordered to monitor broadcasts.

IN A BID TO tighten control over the media, the junta leader yesterday gave absolute power to the broadcast and telecom regulators to order outlets to shut down without the right to appeal.

The move drew an outcry from the media....(read more)....
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Junta-tightens-grip-on-media-30290638.html

[Up2U]

19 red shirts in Isaan summoned for joining referendum watch campaign
Submitted by editor4 on Thu, 14/07/2016
Almost 20 people in northeastern Thailand have been summoned after they participated in a red-shirt referendum watch campaign a month earlier.... (read more)....
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6366

[Up2U]

Leaflets criticising draft charter can’t be distributed: Election Commissioner
Submitted by editor2 on Fri, 15/07/2016
After a stand-off with anti-junta activists over leaflets criticising the junta-sponsored draft charter, the Thai authorities said that the leaflets cannot be distributed as they distort facts about the draft.

Somchai Srisuthiyakorn, the Election Commissioner of Thailand (ECT), on Thursday afternoon, 14 July 2016, told media after a meeting with the Constitution Drafting Committee (CDC) that leaflets criticising the draft constitution titled ‘7 Reasons Not to Accept the Draft Constitution’ are not allowed to be distributed.... (read more)....
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6368

[Up2U]

Thailand army tightens media control ahead of draft charter referendum
by Asian Correspondent Staff | 15th July 2016 | @ascorrespondent
THAILAND’S telecommunications authority has been given the green light to to shut down any radio or television station whose broadcasts are considered a threat to national security.

This is part of the military government’s move to tighten its control on electronic media ahead of the draft constitution referendum next month.... (read more)....
https://asiancorrespondent.com/2016/07/thailand-tightens-media-control/

[Up2U]

POLICE DROP ROYAL DEFAMATION CASE AGAINST ACTIVIST’S MOTHER
By Teeranai Charuvastra, Staff Reporter - July 15, 2016
BANGKOK — Two months and waves of outrage later, police Thursday announced they would not pursue a criminal case against a woman accused of insulting the monarchy by staying silent.... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/15/police-drop-royal-defamation-case-activists-mother/

[Up2U]

THE CASE FOR ILLOGICAL LOGIC AND THE ABSURD IN JUNTALAND
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - July 16, 2016
Red bowls, balloons, leaflets attack the charter underwritten by the military. Toys with messages call for freedom and democracy, while people stand still in public, read George Orwell’s 1984 or even eat sandwiches.

These are the things deemed a threat to national security?

Some wonder, could things get even zanier?.... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/opinion/2016/07/16/logic-dictatorial-power-case-juntalands-thailand/

[Up2U]

Regime never suppresses free speech, says Prawit
Published: 17/07/2016
Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon on Saturday brushed off a call for an open dialogue on the referendum by... (read more)...

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/1037365/regime-never-suppresses-free-speech-says-prawit.

[Up2U]

AUGURING AUG. 8: REJECTING CHARTER COURTS UNCERTAIN SCENARIOS
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - July 17, 2016
BANGKOK — Three Sundays from now, the polls will open for the public to vote on the controversial charter drafted under junta guidance, and one of the biggest guessing games is what will happen if it’s rejected.

The military government has kept its cards close to the vest, with the strongest signal coming June 29 from junta leader Prayuth Chan-ocha, when he told reporters the drafting process would simply begin for a third time. A few days ago, he added that he would write it himself, only to then say he wasn’t serious.... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/17/auguring-aug-8-rejecting-charter-courts-uncertain-scenarios/

[Up2U]

Regime says Thai coup 'unique' Insists comparisons only mislead public
Published: 18/07/2016
The military regime has lashed out at its critics, particularly Pheu Thai politicians,... (read more)....

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/1038025/regime-says-thai-coup-unique.

[Up2U]

TWO COUNTRIES TWO METHODS
JULY 17, 2016
Giles Ji Ungpakorn
Both Thailand and Turkey have experiences of long periods of brutal military rule. In both countries the conservative elites have opposed democratically elected governments that have enjoyed the support of the poor. The judiciaries of both countries have tried to subvert the election process. In Turkey the Western-leaning middle-classes have usually allied themselves with the military, supporting “Kemalism” which is used in an attempt to suppress those who dare to criticise the old order.... (read more)...
https://uglytruththailand.wordpress.com/2016/07/17/two-countries-two-methods/

[Up2U]

Review of human rights violations prior to the Constitutional Referendum in Thailand
Submitted by editor4 on Mon, 18/07/2016
Thai Lawyers for Human Rights
Following the announcement of the NCPO that the Constitutional Referendum is to be held on August 7, various groups have expressed their views on Thailand’s draft constitution. Both pro- and anti-draft groups have been running campaigns and expressing their views in public. Unfortunately, however, the NCPO has not been welcoming of the views of both groups..... (read more)...
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6374

[Up2U]

Prominent voices weigh in on draft
JUTHATHIP LUCKSANAWONG
WASAMON AUDJARINT
The Nation July 18, 2016
As the supreme law, a constitution rules and links everyone and every organ of a nation together. The new charter, the country’s 20th, would be no different if it were accepted at the August 7 referendum. Amid a highly charged atmosphere and a transitional period for the nation, the new charter has been written at a particularly challenging time. And time will tell if it will set a new course for relationships and roles in a way most people accept. The Nation’s Juthathip Lucksanawong and Wasamon Audjarint asked 12 prominent voices whether they believed the charter would affect them.

PRIME MINISTER Prayut Chan-o-cha, who also heads the National Council for Peace and Order.... (read more)....
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Prominent-voices-weigh-in-on-draft-30290840.html

[Up2U]

Mahidol’s rights institute under fire over draft charter infographics
Submitted by editor2 on Mon, 18/07/2016
The Thai authorities threatened to sue a human rights institute of one of Thailand’s leading universities over infographics about the public referendum on the draft charter.

Somchai Srisuthiyakorn, Election Commissioner of Thailand (ECT), told media that a serie of infographics explaining about the upcoming referendum to pass the junta-sponsored draft constitution titled ‘Chapter 2: Main question and the Question Attached’ must be removed, the Independent News Network (INN) reported on Monday, 18 July 2016... (read more)...
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6375

[Up2U]

Penguin: high school student sparks campaign against junta’s draft charter
Submitted by editor4 on Tue, 19/07/2016
Kornkritch Somjittranukit
Under the junta’s climate of fear and intimidation where politicians, academics, and civil society are silenced, a high school student, Parit Chiwarak, withstands the pressure and actively protects the right to free education from the junta’s attempts to abolish it....(read more)...
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6376

[Up2U]

Thai military lambastes critics over Turkey coup comparison
by Asian Correspondent Staff | 18th July 2016 | @ascorrespondent
THAILAND’S junta government has rubbished critics’ comparisons to the recent foiled coup d’état in Turkey, saying those who criticized the Thai military have taken the two instances out of context... (read more)...
https://asiancorrespondent.com/2016/07/thai-military-lambastes-critics-for-turkey-coup-comparison/

[Up2U]

Critics set conditions to join TV charter debate
KASAMAKORN CHANWANPEN,
OLARN LERTRATTANADAMRONGKUL
THE NATION July 20, 2016
CRITICS of the draft constitution have conditionally agreed to take part in a televised debate to be organised by the Election Commission (EC).

The agreement is contingent on public participation in choosing the topics of debate and a fair allocation of time for both sides.

Some critics also want the debate to be aired during prime time..... (read more)...
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Critics-set-conditions-to-join-TV-charter-debate-30290947.html

[Up2U]

Military orders 19 red shirts to steer clear from political activists
Submitted by editor2 on Wed, 20/07/2016
After being forced into the so-called ‘attitude adjustment session’ by the military, 19 red shirts accused of breaking the junta’s political gathering ban were forced to sign an agreement promising to steer clear from all political activities.

The police in Non Sa-at District of the northeastern province of Udon Thani on Monday, 18 July 2016, summoned 19 anti-establishment red shirts for accusation hearing and an the so-called ‘attitude adjustment session’, detention with lecture usually done by the military, at Non Sa-at Police Station, the Thai Lawyers for Human Rights (TLHR) reported.... (read more)...
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6378?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

[Up2U]

Thailand’s hidden republican tradition
PATRICK JORY - 19 JUL, 2016
Despite the intense royalist indoctrination of the Bhumibol era it would be naïve not to imagine that at least some Thais draw inspiration from the country’s long republican tradition.

Thailand is typically understood as a deeply royalist country ruled by a highly revered monarch.

The king’s image is everywhere. The capital, Bangkok, is strewn with monuments to past kings. Countless streets, bridges, dams, universities, schools, army bases, hospitals, etc. are named after royalty. The calendar is full of royal holidays. Thailand has one of the world’s strictest lèse majesté laws which forbids criticism of the king and royal family.... (read more)...
http://www.newmandala.org/thailands-hidden-republican-tradition/

[Up2U]

Calls mount for open talks on draft charter Umbrella group demands Plan B if 'no vote' wins day
Published: 21/07/2016
Writer: Aekarach Sattaburuth
Leading members of political parties and civil society are intensifying calls for open talks on the draft constitution, strongly urging the regime to come up with alternatives if the charter is rejected...(read more)....

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/1040261/calls-mount-for-open-talks-on-draft-charter.

[Up2U]

CLODS AND CLOTS II
July 20, 2016
In our previous Clods and clots post, we mentioned a story the junta claiming dastardly plots by its political enemies. One plot was particularly nasty, claimed to be the “unprecedented” destruction of one list of voters for the charter referendum in one district in Kampaeng Phet Province. The junta order that the culprits be hunted down.

It turned out that a couple of 8-year-old girls were responsible.

One would imagine that the junta, its spokesperson and others involved would be suitably embarrassed. No such luck, with Khaosod reporting that the two little girls, who liked and wanted the pink-colored paper, have had to report to police and have signed “reports.”.... (read more)...
https://politicalprisonersofthailand.wordpress.com/2016/07/20/clods-and-clots-ii/

[Up2U]

SOLDIERS VISIT NORTHERN RESIDENTS OVER VOTE-NO TEES
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - July 21, 2016
PHRAE — A group of residents of the northern province of Phrae were ordered to appear Thursday morning and answer questions about a group photo showing them wearing T-shirts opposing the draft charter, saying they might be have broken the law after the photo surfaced on Facebook.... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/21/soldiers-visit-residents-vote-no-tees/

[Up2U]

Youth democracy-activists challenge charter drafters for debate
Submitted by editor2 on Thu, 21/07/2016
After the Deputy junta head has promised to organise nationwide debates on the controversial draft charter, a well-known anti-junta activists group challenged the junta-appointed constitution drafters for a debate.

At 12:30 pm on Thursday, 21 July 2016, Chanoknan Ruamsap, key member of the New Democracy Movement (NDM), anti-junta activist group, and other NDM members submitted an invitation letter to Amorn Wanichwiwat, spokesperson of the Constitution Drafting Committee (CDC)..... (read more)...
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6382

[Up2U]

Don’t force me, says Prayut
THE NATION July 22, 2016
THE PRIME minister yesterday refused to clarify if all stakeholders would be allowed to write a new constitution draft if the current one fails to pass the August 7 referendum.

General Prayut Chan-o-cha said people appeared to be pushing for what they want without contributing to positive changes to the country.... (read more)... http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Dont-force-me-says-Prayut-30291123.html

[Up2U]

POLICE RAID BANGKOK FAMILY HOME OF FOREIGN CRITIC OF MONARCHY
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - July 22, 2016
BANGKOK — Police raided the Bangkok home of a well-known British author and monarchy critic’s Thai family Friday morning, taking away his wife, 3-year-old son and father-in-law along with computers and other materials.

The raid took place about 7am at the home of the parents of Noppawan Bunluesilp, the wife of former Reuters reporter Andrew MacGregor Marshall, author of a banned book critical of the monarchy, one day after he shared stories from foreign media on Facebook that were unflattering to a member of the royal family.... (read more)..
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/22/police-raid-home-foreign-critic-thai-monarchy-home/

[Up2U]

Thai authorities target critic’s wife
MISH KHAN, ASSOCIATE EDITOR - 22 JUL, 2016
Noppawan “Ploy” Bunluesilp, the wife of journalist Andrew MacGregor Marshall, has been detained by over 20 Thai Policr in Thailand while visiting Bangkok with their three-year-old son.

Andrew, the author of A Kingdom in Crisis: Thailand’s Struggle for Democracy in the Twenty-First Century, is banned from Thailand for his vocal criticism of Thai political affairs and the monarchy, and has a large online following of activists and supporters.
In a statement released on social media, Andrew wrote: “My wife Noppawan “Ploy” Bunluesilp, 39, has worked as a journalist for Reuters and NBC.... (read more)...
http://www.newmandala.org/thai-authorities-target-critics-wife/

[Up2U]

OVERRULING POLICE, MILITARY INDICTS ACTIVIST’S MOTHER FOR INSULTING MONARCHY
By Teeranai Charuvastra, Staff Reporter - July 22, 2016
BANGKOK — Military court prosecutors Friday indicted a 40-year-old woman on a charge of royal defamation, despite a recent recommendation by police the case be dropped.

The decision means Patnaree Chankij, the mother of a high-profile activist and junta critic, will be tried by a military tribunal for not admonishing another party who sent allegedly offensive remarks about the the Royal Family through private chat.... (read more).... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/22/overruling-police-military-indicts-activists-mother-insulting-monarchy/

[Up2U]

Next two weeks are crucial to legitimacy of charter draft
PIYAPORN WONGRUANG
THE NATION July 22, 2016
Yesterday marked the second time that the newly formed group of scholars and prominent political figures known as the Platform of Concerned Citizens (PCC) have spoken out about the country’s political future.

When the referendum law was promulgated a few months ago, the PCC expressed serious concerns about strict restrictions it placed on debate of the charter draft content. As the vote draws near, the concern has intensified over a lack of transparency in the whole referendum process, where tight control is apparently being applied by authorities in a bid to prevent the worst-case scenario of the charter draft being voted down.... (read more)....
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Next-two-weeks-are-crucial-to-legitimacy-of-charte-30291150.html

[Up2U]

NBTC shutters Peace TV after court delay
KASAMAKORN CHANWANPEN
THE NATION July 22, 2016
THE red-shirt satellite station Peace TV was scheduled to suspend operations last night after the Central Administrative Court failed to grant an injunction order against the broadcasting watchdog's decision to suspend its licence.... (read more)... http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/NBTC-shutters-Peace-TV-after-court-delay-30291124.html

[Up2U]

Twilight of the king
After the ailing monarch goes, what next?
Jul 23rd 2016
TO THE casual observer the country is calm and orderly. And reverential: adorning a sweet-seller’s stall in a buzzing market in Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, are a dozen laminated pictures of the 88-year-old King Bhumibol Adulyadej who, on the throne since 1946, is the world’s longest-reigning monarch, indeed the only king most Thais have ever known. During his reign Thailand has become one of the richest big countries in South-East Asia, a manufacturing hub and a magnet for tourists. Bhumibol’s picture is everywhere, including in millions of homes.... (read more)....
http://www.economist.com/news/asia/21702497-after-ailing-monarch-goes-what-next-twilight-king

[Up2U]

The generals who hide behind the throne
Thailand is ill-prepared for the death of its king
Jul 23rd 2016
TO THE tourists who still flock to its beaches and golden temples, Thailand seems calm. But this is an illusion. Thai politics are as ugly as the country is beautiful—and could soon get uglier. The country’s beloved king, Bhumibol Adulyadej, whose 70th year on the throne was celebrated on June 9th, is 88 years old and gravely ill. The country is scared of what might happen when he dies (see article).... (read more)...
http://www.economist.com/news/leaders/21702467-thailand-ill-prepared-death-its-king-generals-who-hide-behind-throne?fsrc=scn/fb/te/pe/ed/thegeneralswhohidebehindthethrone

[Up2U]

POLICE THROW BOOK AT 8-YEAR-OLDS FOR TEARING PINK ELECTION PAPER
By Sasiwan Mokkhasen, Staff Reporter - July 22, 2016
KAMPHAENG PHET — Police said Friday they instructed local election officials to file charges against two 8-year-old schoolgirls who tore a voter registration list because they wanted its pink paper.

Vandalism charges were filed against the two girls on Thursday, a decision the provincial police chief said came after he told the local election commissioner to file a complaint because the children had destroyed commission property.... (read more)... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/22/police-throw-book-8-year-olds-tearing-pink-election-paper/

[Up2U]

Civil opposition to the constitution starts to grow
Published: 24/07/2016
Writer: Dumrongkiat Mala
>> Leading civil groups have urged a "no" vote on the new constitution next month,... (read more)...

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/general/1042873/civil-opposition-to-the-constitution-starts-to-grow.

[Up2U]

THE IMPORTANCE OF STRATEGY AND TACTICS
JULY 24, 2016
Giles ji Ungpakorn

The mass uprising against the attempted military coup in Turkey has opened up a debate about the tactics of defeating military coups and military dictatorships in Thailand.

Chaturon Chaisang, one of the most principled Pua Thai politicians, has praised what he calls the “Turkish Model”.... (read more)...
https://uglytruththailand.wordpress.com/2016/07/24/the-importance-of-strategy-and-tactics/

[Up2U]

TWO GROUPS OPPOSED TO CHARTER UNDECIDED ON ACCEPTING REFERENDUM RESULTS
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - July 24, 2016
BANGKOK — With just two weeks to go before the charter referendum, some of its opponents say they’ve yet to decide whether to accept the outcome.

Despite calls by high-profile and ostensibly neutral parties for the public to unconditionally respect the results of the Aug. 7 vote, pro-democracy activists opposed to the charter said they’re worried about legitimizing the process or possible misconduct.... (read more)... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/24/two-groups-opposed-charter-undecided-accepting-referendum-results/

[Up2U]

Climate of fear will boost turnout’
Juthathip Lucksanawong
The Nation July 25, 2016
80% tipped to vote in Isaan as ‘many want closure’; people afraid to discuss charter; lack of knowledge on draft common in N/east

Voter turnout in the Northeast could reach the 80-per-cent goal in the referendum in two weeks and favour approval of the draft charter despite a climate of fear and a lack of understanding about the draft, a source close to Election Commission (EC) offices in Isaan provinces has said..... (read more)...http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Climate-of-fear-will-boost-turnout-30291323.html

[Up2U]

Nitirat joins draft critics NCPO told to bow out if it fails poll test
Published: 25/07/2016
The regime must step down and let the people take part in a process to draw up a new constitution if the draft charter is shot down in the Aug 7 referendum, a seminar was told...(read more)...

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/1043617/nitirat-joins-draft-critics.

[Up2U]

July 22nd 2016
Concerns raised over referendum aftermath
Event

On July 20th the Platform of Concerned Citizens (PCC), a civil society group consisting of 16 organisations and 117 individuals, released a five-point statement which included calls for open debate on the draft constitution and the disclosure of a contingency plan should the proposed charter not pass a referendum.

Analysis

The PCC's statement comes amid.... (read more).... http://country.eiu.com/article.aspx?articleid=1394438523

[Up2U]

August referendum disturbed by monkeys, underages, coffee, rain
Submitted by editor4 on Mon, 25/07/2016
The junta’s draft charter referendum has faced an epic struggle in the past weekend as the voter lists across the country were spoiled by kid, monkeys, and rain. The state authorities also confiscated advertorial flags of a coffee product whose name could be translated as ‘vote no.’

Thai state authorities have been in trouble during the past weekend after the voter lists for the August draft charter referendum in various provinces were reportedly destroyed due to many absurd reasons....(read more)... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6389

[Up2U]

JUNTA’S CHARTER DRAFTERS BACKTRACK ON DEBATE CHALLENGE
By Teeranai Charuvastra, Staff Reporter - July 25, 2016
BANGKOK — The drafters of Thailand’s proposed constitution did an about-face on Sunday, reversing a pledge made by its spokesmen to engage in a public debate with their critics.

Saying such a debate could be seen as a “conflict of interest,” Chatchai na Chiang Mai of the Constitution Drafting Committee said officials would therefore have to decline the debate proposed by one another spokesman to members of the New Democracy Movement, a group opposed to the charter.... (read more)....
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/25/juntas-charter-drafters-backtrack-debate-challenge/

[Up2U]

Thailand: Amnesty International Thailand’s Chair and other activists face jail for exposing torture
Submitted by editor1 on Tue, 26/07/2016
Amnesty International Thailand
The Thai authorities must immediately drop the criminal investigation against three of the country’s most prominent human rights activists, including the chair of Amnesty International Thailand, who could be charged tomorrow for documenting and publishing a report about torture by Thai security forces, the organization warned.

Somchai Homla-or, Anchana Heemmina, and Porpen Khongkaconkiet, who was appointed Chair of the Amnesty International Thailand board last month, face the prospect of five years behind bars and a fine of US $4,800 if found guilty on charges of “criminal defamation” and “computer crimes”. The three are due to report to Pattani police station on 26 July.... (read more)...
https://prachatai.org/english/node/6394

[Up2U]

Charter draft fails to share power, Abhisit says
THE NATION July 26, 2016
DEMOCRAT Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva revealed some of his personal thoughts on the charter draft yesterday, saying he believed it failed to support a distribution of power.

Abhisit said as the party leader, he would tomorrow officially give his stance about the charter (Wed) and it would not be the party's stance because it was not allowed to hold a meeting to discuss politics.... (read more)...
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Charter-draft-fails-to-share-power-Abhisit-says-30291411.html

[Up2U]

UN Expert urges Thailand to ensure free debate ahead of the constitutional referendum

GENEVA (26 July 2016) – The United Nations Special Rapporteur on freedom of opinion and expression, David Kaye, today condemned the alarmingly high number of arrests and charges over public and social media expression brought under military orders and the Constitutional Referendum Act in Thailand. The Act, adopted ahead of the constitutional referendum scheduled for 7 August, criminalises expression and access to information about the draft constitution.... (read more)...

- See more at: http://www.ohchr.org/EN/NewsEvents/Pages/DisplayNews.aspx?NewsID=20302&LangID=E#sthash.aTuv5qZa.dpuf

[Up2U]

Junta head suspends officials allegedly involved with anti-draft charter letters
Submitted by editor2 on Tue, 26/07/2016
The Thai junta leader issued an order to suspend public officers suspected of involving in documents campaigning against the junta-sponsored draft constitution.... (read more)... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6399

[Up2U]

NIECE OF ARMY TORTURE VICTIM ARRESTED FOR INTERNET MESSAGES
By Associated Press - July 26, 2016
BANGKOK — The niece of an army conscript who was tortured to death by soldiers was arrested Tuesday on a complaint filed by the Thai military over her internet postings.

Naritsarawan Kaewnopparat last year had posted photos of her uncle’s body and information about the torture he endured. She was arrested at her workplace in Bangkok on charges of criminal defamation and violating the Computer Crime Act.... (read more)... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2016/07/26/niece-thai-army-torture-victim-sued-internet-postings/

[Up2U]

Meechai warns of instability if 'Vote No' wins
Published: 27/07/2016
The rejection of the draft constitution in the Aug 7 referendum will lead to political instability and spur anti-coup... (read more)...

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/1045269/meechai-warns-of-instability-if-vote-no-wins.

[cdnmatt]

Just want to pop in again, and say thanks for keeping this thread updated. I always look forward to reading it every day.

[Up2U]

Military summons 6 people allegedly involved with anti-draft charter letters
Submitted by editor4 on Wed, 27/07/2016
The military in Chiang Mai has summoned six people and accused them of sedition without court approval, alleging that they were involved with the letters containing material criticizing the junta’s draft charter...(read more)...
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6405?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

[Up2U]

Singapore | 26 July 2016
Thailand’s Political Future Remains Uncertain
Prajak Kongkirati .... (read more)...
https://t.co/fwgayk4KkS

[Up2U]

News Abhisit says 'no' to draft charter
Published: 27/07/2016
Writer: Online Reporters

Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva says he will not accept the draft constitution, revealing for the first time his personal stand on the issue....(read more)...

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/1045905/abhisit-says-no-to-draft-charter.

[Up2U]

Referendum may end up deepening divisions
KASAMAKORN CHANWANPEN,
ANAPAT DEECHUAY
THE NATION July 28, 2016
Abhisit deals a major blow to NCPO, coup supporters by rejecting draft.

AS POLITICAL FACTIONS grapple to impose their notions on what the referendum result would mean in a final bid to influence voters, the labyrinth that is the charter poll will not really bring an end to the junta's mission. Instead, it will just be a transition to a new phase in the long-standing power struggle.

Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva's rejection of the draft charter yesterday did little to... (read more)....
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Referendum-may-end-up-deepening-divisions-30291566.html

[Up2U]

THAILAND: Structural and legal threats to free expression in referendum process
July 27, 2016
By Phattranit Yaodam and Samira Saran

August 7, 2016 is scheduled for the constitutional referendum by the Thai Military government and the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), the junta-ruling body. It is during times of political change that the right to freedom of expression is most essential, ensuring that a well-informed and empowered public is free to exercise its civil and political rights. Providing the conditions for free and open political communication is the basic element of ensuring fair and democratic referendum processes.

This concept is mentioned in international standards. It is.... (read more)... http://www.humanrights.asia/news/ahrc-news/AHRC-ART-041-2016

[Up2U]

Southern anti-election protest leader gets suspended jail term
Submitted by editor2 on Thu, 28/07/2016
Two years after the 2014 coup d’état, a provincial court in southern Thailand handed a suspended jail term to a leader of the People’s Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC), an anti-election protest.

The Provincial Court of the Southern Province of Ranong on Wednesday, 27 July 2016, handed a one year and six months jail term with 30,000 baht fine to Sucheep Patthong, a leader of the PDRC protester in Ranong.

According to the verdict, Sucheep has also lost his rights to participate in elections for five years. However, the court halved the sentenced to nine months imprisonment and 15,000 fine as Sucheep pleaded guilty. His jail term is suspended for two years.... (read more)... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6406

[Up2U]

POLITICIAN FACES WEEK-LONG INTERROGATION ON ARMY BASE WITHOUT LAWYER
By Teeranai Charuvastra, Staff Reporter - July 28, 2016
BANGKOK — A former Pheu Thai MP will be held up to seven days at an army base where soldiers will interrogate her without a lawyer present to determine whether she’s connected to undelivered letters in northern Thailand that urged people to reject the junta-backed constitution.... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/28/politician-faces-week-long-interrogation-army-base-without-lawyer/

[Up2U]

July 28, 2016
Govt hits back over UN statement targeting Article 61
THE JUNTA government has responded sharply to a United Nations’ rights expert who condemned its clampdown on public comment ahead of the August poll through military orders and the Referendum Act.... (read more)...
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/webmobile/politics/Govt-hits-back-over-UN-statement-targeting-Article-30291564.html

[Up2U]

Thailand to try opposition figures in military court
Arrests and detention of loyalists of ex-PMs Thaksin and Yingluck come ahead of August 7 referendum
July 29, 2016
More than 50 million registered voters are expected to cast their ballots on the military-backed constitution [AP]More than 50 million registered voters are expected to cast their ballots on the military-backed constitution [AP]
Eight Thai politicians are facing charges of sedition and for spreading "false information" about the draft constitution, local reports said, a development that creates "a climate of fear" in the country ahead of a referendum, according to a rights group.

Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwan said on Thursday that the politicians, who are loyalists of former Yingluck Shinawatra, would be tried in a military court, and that their detention would continue for at least a week.... (read more)...
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/07/thailand-opposition-figures-military-court-160728134234938.html

[Up2U]

Democrat Party split on draft charter
PM Prayut brushes aside Abhisit's call for him to lead drafting of new charter if referendum vote fails
Published: 29/07/2016
..... (read more)....

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/1047069/democrat-party-split-on-draft-charter.

[Up2U]

CRITICS GREET ABHISIT’S CHARTER SNUB WITH SKEPTICISM
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - July 28, 2016
BANGKOK — Opponents of the draft charter reacted harshly to Wednesday’s snubbing of the proposed constitution by none other than Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva.

A day after Abhisit, a former prime minister, announced he would vote to reject the charter, critics faulted him as.... (read more)... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/07/28/critics-greet-abhisits-charter-snub-skepticism/

[Up2U]

UK issues travel warning ahead of Thai referendum
by Asian Correspondent Staff | 28th July 2016 |
THE British Foreign and Commonwealth Office has warned of increased “political tensions” ahead of Thailand’s constitution referendum on August 7.

In an update on its website Wednesday, the office advised British travelers to “avoid political gatherings and monitor the advice of local authorities and local media” before and during the polls.... (read more)... https://asiancorrespondent.com/2016/07/uk-travel-warning-thai-referendum/

[Up2U]

Anfrel pulls out of poll monitoring role
Published: 29/07/2016
Writer: Achara Ashayagachat
The Asian Network for Free Elections (Anfrel) has monitored elections for nearly two decades,... (read more)...

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/1047137/anfrel-pulls-out-of-poll-monitoring-role.

[Up2U]

ELDERLY ‘VOTE NO’ CAMPAIGNER JAILED BECAUSE HE COULDN’T AFFORD BOND
By Teeranai Charuvastra, Staff Reporter - July 29, 2016

The Election Commission on Wednesday sent a school marching ban on the streets in Roi Et province to publicize about the Aug. 7 referendum.
CHIANG MAI — A 63-year-old man remained imprisoned Friday, four days after he was locked up for handing out leaflets that urged people to reject the pro-junta constitution in the Aug. 7 referendum.... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2016/07/29/vote-no-leaflet-suspect-jailed-cant-afford-100000-baht-bail/

[Up2U]

Computer Crime amendments further the vagueness of its rudiments
Submitted by editor2 on Sat, 30/07/2016
Austin Silvan
The “Computer Crimes Act” of Thailand was amended this year to change, add, and remove various aspects. Although many articles have been amended, and even improved in some cases, there are still critical issues found within the current and proposed legislation... (read more).... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6414

[Up2U]

EC member fears voters ill-informed will vote ‘irrational'
CHANIKARN PHUMHIRAN,
WATTANA KAMCHU
THE NATION July 30, 2016
MANY eligible voters are ill-informed about the draft constitution and are likely to base their decision on irrational belief rather than objective judgement, Election Commission (EC) member Somchai Srisuthiyakorn said yesterday.

What voters should know about are the key points of the draft charter, and they should then weigh in their minds whether or not it is a good document overall when deciding how to vote in the upcoming referendum, he added.... (read more)...
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/EC-member-fears-voters-ill-informed-will-vote-irra-30291715.html

[Up2U]

THROUGH WOUNDS SELF-INFLICTED, THAI MEDIA GATEKEEPERS IN TERMINAL DECLINE
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - July 30, 2016
The withdrawal of an ultraconservative newspaper from the largest national media association last week was another chapter in the ongoing debate and struggle over the role of Thailand’s mass media.... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/opinion/2016/07/30/wounds-self-inflicted-media-gatekeepers-terminal-decline/

[Up2U]

Almost 90% to vote in referendum: survey
THE SUNDAY NATION July 31, 2016
NEARLY 90 per cent of people surveyed said they intend to cast their ballots in next Sunday’s referendum, with almost half of them planning to approve the draft constitution, a survey has found.

A total of 87.8 per cent of respondents said they would go to vote and only 6.2 per cent said they did not intend do so, according to results of the survey conducted by Bangkok University's Research Centre.... (read more)...
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Almost-90-to-vote-in-referendum-survey-30291775.html

[Up2U]

JUNTA’S REFERENDUM ON AUTHORITARIAN CONSTITUTION NEITHER FREE NOR FAIR
JULY 31, 2016
Giles Ji Ungpakorn
The Thai junta’s so-called “referendum” on its authoritarian constitution is not a genuine democratic referendum. It is being conducted in a climate of fear, bullying and harassment. Those wishing to oppose the constitution and campaign for a “No Vote” have been constantly arrested and thrown in jail and their literature confiscated. Even neutral meetings to discuss the constitution have been banned. Independent media have been raided by soldiers. The military controlled media is giving a one-sided, pro-junta view of this appalling constitution and soldiers are being sent into communities to “explain” the “benefits” of the constitution to the public.... (read more)... https://uglytruththailand.wordpress.com/2016/07/31/juntas-referendum-on-authoritarian-constitution-neither-free-nor-fair/

[Up2U]

‘Excuse me, Emperor …’
MATTEW PHILLIPS - 01 AUG, 2016
http://www.newmandala.org/excuse-me-emperor/

[Up2U]

CDC defends charter summary with week to go
WASAMON AUDJARINT
THE NATION August 1, 2016
CHARTER DRAFTERS said yesterday |authorised "simplified summary" booklets do not present distorted information as some |critics have claimed.

Authorities, meanwhile, have stepped up efforts to convince the public not to be |convinced by "false" information in the six days before the referendum....(read more)... http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/CDC-defends-charter-summary-with-week-to-go-30291842.html

[Up2U]

I will run in next poll, says Abhisit
PIYAPORN WONGRUANG,
KASAMAKORN CHANWANPEN
THE NATION August 1, 2016
ABHISIT VEJJAJIVA, head of the Democrats, the country's oldest political party, admits that his declaration of an opposing stance to the charter may have an impact on his leadership, but insists that both he and the party will contest the next election if it passes the referendum.... (read more)... http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/I-will-run-in-next-poll-says-Abhisit-30291843.html

[Up2U]

AD-HOC NETWORK URGES PUBLIC TO REPORT ON REFERENDUM VIA SOCIAL MEDIA
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - August 1, 2016
BANGKOK — An ad-hoc network of unofficial referendum monitors was launched Monday by six organizations in a last-minute bid to scrutinize this coming weekend’s public poll on the junta-sponsored charter draft.... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/08/01/ad-hoc-network-appeals-public-report-referendum-via-social-media/

[Up2U]

Thailand's king treated for low fever, 'possible infection' - palace
Posted 01 Aug 2016
BANGKOK: Thailand's 88-year-old king, the world's longest reigning monarch, has been treated for a low fever and a "possible infection" in his blood, the palace said in a statement on Monday.... (read more)...
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asiapacific/thailand-s-king-treated-f/3004240.html

[Up2U]

King 'on the mend' from fevers Published: 02/08/2016... (read more)...

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/general/1050725/king-on-the-mend-from-fevers.

[Up2U]

19 redshirt leaders surrender to acknowledge charge
in Politics | August 2, 2016
Nineteen redshirt leaders and members today reported to the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) police to acknowledge charge of defying the military junta's order.
The redshirt leaders and members, all in black T-shirts, were led by Jatuporn Phromphan, president of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD).

They were charged for defying the order of the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) banning political assembly of more than five people after they held a press conference at the former Imperial Lard Prao shopping centre to declare the establishment of their own anti referendum cheat centre.... (read more)...
http://englishnews.thaipbs.or.th/19-redshirt-leaders-surrender-acknowledge-charge/

[Nirish guy]

"after they held a press conference at the former Imperial Lard Prao shopping centre to declare the establishment of their own anti referendum cheat centre."

Am I missing something here or should the above not have read 'anti" cheat centre or something or is this part of their campaign to derail the voting process perhaps just ? Seems strange to announce that tactic first though if so ? Or am i missing something / just unaware of where things are at in general re the whole voting re that ?

[Up2U]

POLITICIANS CHARGED FOR ‘DISTORTING CONSTITUTION’ IN PRIVATE LETTERS
By Teeranai Charuvastra, Staff Reporter - August 2, 2016

BANGKOK — Eleven people, including former politicians and local officials, are under arrest for allegedly misrepresenting the new constitution draft that will be put to a referendum this Sunday.... (read more)....
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/08/02/politicians-charged-distorting-constitution-private-letters/

[Up2U]

"after they held a press conference at the former Imperial Lard Prao shopping centre to declare the establishment of their own anti referendum cheat centre."

Am I missing something here or should the above not have read 'anti" cheat centre or something or is this part of their campaign to derail the voting process perhaps just ? Seems strange to announce that tactic first though if so ? Or am i missing something / just unaware of where things are at in general re the whole voting re that ?

Perhaps this report is better:

19 UDD members report to CSD Published: 02/08/2016

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/1050881/19-udd-members-report-to-csd.

[Up2U]

Thailand: Draft constitution creates more problems than solutions, new report says
03/08/2016 REPORTThailand TH

(Paris, Bangkok) Thailand’s draft constitution and upcoming referendum are products of a repressive process that could lead to further political instability, FIDH and its member organization Union for Civil Liberty (UCL) said in a new report published today.

On 7 August 2016, Thai citizens will vote in a referendum that will decide whether the draft constitution backed by Thailand’s military junta, the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), will become the country’s 20th charter since 1932.
... the report....
https://t.co/gnOxcjc5VB

[Up2U]

PM 'will not step down' if charter fails Voters to pick 'unclear future' or 'past failure'
Published: 03/08/2016

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/1051281/pm-will-not-step-down-if-charter-fails.

[Up2U]

11 face sedition charges over draft charter
THE NATION August 3, 2016
ELEVEN PEOPLE including top politicians from Chiang Mai have been charged with sedition, criminal association and violating the referendum law for allegedly distributing letters that carried distorted information about the draft charter. The accused will be tried in both civilian and military courts....(read more)...
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/11-face-sedition-charges-over-draft-charter-30292025.html

[Up2U]

Thailand constitutional referendum: all your questions answered
Millions of Thais go to the polls on 7 August to vote about the future direction of their country which still remains under de-facto military rule
Adam Ramsey
Wednesday 3 August 2016
What’s happening?
On Sunday, 7 August 40.4 million eligible voters in Thailand will head to the polls in a referendum for a new constitution. More than 200,000 police officers will be deployed at 94,000 polling stations on the day.... (read more).... https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/aug/03/thailand-constitutional-referendum-all-your-questions-answered?CMP=share_btn_fb

[Up2U]

Thailand’s referendum roadblock
KHEMTHONG TONSAKULRUNGRUANG - 04 AUG, 2016
As Thailand approaches its monumental referendum, the potential for political conflict is high. What will happen after Sunday?

Thailand’s constitution-drafting process has come to the crucial point — the referendum on the draft charter on 7 August. All arms of Thailand’s authoritarian regime are working in unison to ensure that the referendum will go smoothly and coerce an acceptance of the draft from Thais.... (read more)... http://www.newmandala.org/false-serious-business-thailands-referendum/

[Up2U]

'Isaan is the indicator for the entire country in referendum’
JUTHATHIP LUCKSANAWONG
THE NATION
NAKHON RATCHASIMA August 4, 2016
... (read more)...
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Isaan-is-the-indicator-for-the-entire-country-in-r-30292103.html

[Up2U]

Thailand’s Referendum on Military Rule
The junta has proposed a draft charter designed to stifle the political parties and run out the clock on the royal transition.
By THITINAN PONGSUDHIRAK
Aug. 3, 2016
Thailand’s military government will hold a referendum on Sunday to seek approval for a new constitution, much as the last junta did nine years ago....(read more)...
http://www.wsj.com/articles/thailands-referendum-on-military-rule-1470242113

[Up2U]

REFERENDUM: 95% CAP ON EARLY VOTING RETURNS RAISES ALARM
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - August 4, 2016
BANGKOK — Some critics remain skeptical of why the Election Commission will stop publicizing electronic returns Sunday evening after 95 percent of the votes have come in.

Concerned the military regime will follow its suppression of debate over the charter with outright manipulation of the polls, critics say the decision to withhold immediate release of 5 percent of the vote, creates, at a minimum, a bad appearance.... (read more)... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/08/04/cap-on-electronic-vote-returns-raises-referendum-alarm/

[Up2U]

Thailand’s referendum roadblock
Submitted by editor2 on Thu, 04/08/2016
Khemthong Tonsakulrungruang
As Thailand approaches its monumental referendum, the potential for political conflict is high. What will happen after Sunday?

Thailand’s constitution-drafting process has come to the crucial point — the referendum on the draft charter on 7 August. All arms of Thailand’s authoritarian regime are working in unison to ensure that the referendum will go smoothly and coerce an acceptance of the draft from Thais.... (read more).... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6434

[Up2U]

Charter 'No' vote poses risks to NCPO ANALYSIS: Critics warn government against writing another constitution if public gives thumbs down on Sunday, writes Nattaya Chetchotiros Published: 05/08/2016.... (read more)...

Please credit and share this article with others using this link: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/1053049/charter-no-vote-poses-risks-to-ncpo.

[Up2U]

AUTHORITIES ANXIOUS ABOUT MUSLIM CRITIQUE OF CONSTITUTION DRAFT
By Teeranai Charuvastra, Staff Reporter - August 4, 2016
BANGKOK — Governors in every province were asked Thursday to counter rumors circulating among some Muslims that their faith will not be respected in the proposed constitution being put to referendum on Sunday.

In an urgent order issued and made public Thursday, the Interior Affairs Ministry said an audio clip is spreading “distorted” facts about the new charter, though a longtime Muslim politician said officials were overreacting.... (read more)... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/08/04/authorities-anxious-muslim-critique-constitution-draft/

[Up2U]

Contents of Draft Constitution: Less democracy, more junta power
Submitted by editor4 on Thu, 04/08/2016
Austin Sylvan
At a seminar discussing the contents of the draft constitution in the upcoming referendum, political experts made clear that these updated legislation reduces democracy, and increases the junta’s control of future Thai politics.

In the evening of 3 August 2016 at the Foreign Correspondents Club of Thailand, Dr David Streckfuss of Khon Kaen University, Dr Suchit Bunbongkarn of Chulalongkorn University, and Henning Glaser of Thammasat University, participated in a panel discussion which talked through the contents of the upcoming draft charter referendum occurring 7 August 2016....(read more)... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6435

[Up2U]

Regional parliamentarians cry foul ahead of Thai constitutional referendum
Submitted by editor2 on Fri, 05/08/2016
ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APHR)
Parliamentarians from across Southeast Asia today deplored the undemocratic process leading up to this Sunday’s referendum on a new constitution in Thailand, raising concerns over harassment, arrests, and intimidation of those seeking to campaign against the draft charter.... (read more).... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6437

[Up2U]

YES’ VOTE FOR NEW CHARTER WILL ENTRENCH JUNTA
By Associated Press - August 5, 2016
BANGKOK — Sunday marks one of the most important votes in Thailand’s history, yet there have been no political rallies, no independent campaigns and virtually no debates. The junta made sure of that.... (read more)... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/08/05/yes-vote-new-constitution-will-entrench-junta/

[Up2U]

IN PRESSED UNIFORM, PRAYUTH CONFIRMS HE WILL INDEED VOTE ‘YES’ FOR CHARTER
By Teeranai Charuvastra, Staff Reporter - August 5, 2016
BANGKOK — It came as little surprise Friday when junta chairman Prayuth Chan-ocha announced he will vote for the constitution drafted under his military regime when it’s put to vote Sunday.

But the sight of the former army chief in a crisp army uniform for first time since he retired from the military nearly two years ago did raise eyebrows, and one academic believes Prayuth was seeking to dispel any doubts the armed forces are still in charge.... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/08/05/pressed-uniform-prayuth-confirms-will-indeed-vote-yes-charter/

[Up2U]

Police raid red-shirt TV station searching for anti-draft charter moderator
Submitted by editor4 on Fri, 05/08/2016
Thai Police are pursuing a red-shirt moderator for allegedly distorting the draft charter content. Another red-shirt leader said such legal prosecution does not benefit the August referendum.

On Thursday, 4 August 2016, police raided Peace TV, a TV station run by co-leaders of United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship, aka the red-shirt movement, to search for Usmarn Lookyee, a moderator of red-shirt TV programs...(read more)...
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6440

[Up2U]

Student activists and the referendum: The pebble in the boot
Submitted by editor4 on Fri, 05/08/2016
Austin Sylvan
For the past number of months, youth and student activists around the country have been challenging the upcoming constitutional referendum, and, certainly with the help of the junta, have made it clear this referendum is a democratic farce.

On 7 August 2016, Thai citizens, many of whom are unaware there is a referendum, and or are unable to make an informed vote, will take to voting stations to decide on a constitutional referendum, put forward by the junta....(read more)....
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6443

[Up2U]

A vicious cycle of coups and constitutions
DAVID CAMROUX - 06 AUG, 2016
Thailand has been searching for an appropriate form of government for more than 80 years. It’s unlikely to find one this Sunday when the country votes on a contentious new constitution.

At first glance, there may be something unique in the Thai military junta seeking to have its action and program legitimised through approval by referendum of a somewhat undemocratic constitution. Yet,... (read more)... http://www.newmandala.org/vicious-cycle-coups-constitutions/

[Up2U]

Look beyond the August referendum with Chaturon Chaisang
Submitted by editor4 on Sat, 06/08/2016
Kornkritch Somjittranukit
The embattled politician from the Pheu Thai Party believes that no matter what the referendum result is, elections must be held by 2017 but in any event democracy will not return to Thailand in the near future....(read more).... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6445

[Up2U]

Thailand’s Referendum Is Only the Start of a Long Struggle for the Country’s Student Activists
Charlie Campbell / Bangkok @charliecamp6ell Aug. 5, 2016
Striding into a Bangkok Starbucks wearing a T-shirt emblazoned with “I Love Gen. Prayuth,” referring to Thailand’s cantankerous junta chief, Rackchart Wong-Arthichart doesn’t seem your typical student democracy activist. But then he points out a pair of crossed fingers printed on the back. “I designed it myself,” he grins. “We mainly do satirical campaigns against the military government.”... (read more).... http://time.com/4440250/thailand-democracy-military-rule-constitution-referendum/

[Up2U]

PART I: From rice fields to rebellion: Untold stories of Northeastern Thailand’s armed struggle
Posted on 08/07/2016 by The Isaan Record
Today, 40 million Thais are called to cast their votes in a referendum on a military-backed constitution, which many say will weaken the country’s democratic system and entrench the generals’ influence over politics. On the same day in 1965, a violent incident in the Northeast led thousands of farmers to take up arms against the military-ruled state that had promised a new constitution for years.... (read more)... http://isaanrecord.com/2016/08/07/part-i-from-rice-fields-to-rebellion/

[Up2U]

Thai referendum with 57% reporting. Yes, 61%, No 38%

[Up2U]

85% now reporting, 58% yes, 41% no. Apparently the turnout was about 53%

[Up2U]

RETURNS SHOW LANDSLIDE WIN FOR JUNTA IN CHARTER POLL
By Teeranai Charuvastra, Staff Reporter - August 7, 2016
BANGKOK — Preliminary results suggest the new constitution drafted by the military regime is set to be passed by a huge margin in Sunday’s referendum.... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/08/07/returns-show-landslide-win-junta-charter-poll/

[Up2U]

‘Yes Vote’ claims victory in August referendum
Submitted by editor4 on Sun, 07/08/2016
Initial projections for Thailand’s August 2016 referendum predict that the military-backed draft constitution will be accepted by a safe majority.... (read more)... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6452

[cdnmatt]

I don't believe a Yes vote is much of a surprise to anyone.

It'll be interesting to see what the next couple years brings for Thailand.

[Up2U]

Thailand votes by public referendum - to make its government even less accountable to the people
Opposition parties were banned from campaigning against it
August 7, 2016
Vijay Joshi, Natnicha Chuwiruch
Thai voters have overwhelmingly approved a new junta-backed constitution that lays the foundation for a civilian government influenced by the military and controlled by appointed — rather than elected — officials....(read more)... http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/thailand-votes-by-public-referendum-to-make-its-government-even-less-accountable-to-the-people-a7177526.html

[Up2U]

PART II: From rice fields to rebellion: Untold stories of Northeastern Thailand’s armed struggle
Posted on 08/08/2016 by The Isaan Record
From Rebels to Thai National Development Partners
Thousands of Communists insurgents and their families came marching out of the forests when hopes for the revolution were shattered. But unlike the left-wing students who were allowed to continue their studies in Bangkok when they gave up their rebellion, many Northeastern Communists had no lives to return to. Others had often occupied their families’ lands, or they were too ashamed of their defeat to return to their home villages.

The CPT fighters were greeted by speeches, television cameras and free meals provided by the state....(read more)... http://isaanrecord.com/2016/08/08/part-ii-from-rice-fields-to-rebellion-untold-stories-of-northeastern-thailands-armed-struggle/

[Up2U]

August 8, 2016
Commentary
Thitinan Pongsudhirak -- The conundrum of Thailand's resounding referendum result
Officials count votes on Sunday evening Aug. 7 after Thailand's referendum on a new constitution. (Photo by Keiichiro Asahara)
The overwhelmingly favorable result of Thailand's second-ever referendum has much deeper and wider significance than as a mere verdict on a military-backed constitution. Thailand's ruling generals under the National Council for Peace and Order, who seized power in May 2014, can now claim a semblance of legitimacy because the constitutional referendum was partly a people's judgment on their putsch and performance in government since then.... (read more)...
http://asia.nikkei.com/Features/Thai-referendum/Thitinan-Pongsudhirak-The-conundrum-of-Thailand-s-resounding-referendum-result?platform=hootsuite

[Oliver]

With such a low turnout, claiming legitimacy may not be so easy. And taking into account the fear that the junta engendered in those who may have opposed the coup, even less cause for complacency.
I've just been speaking with my boyfriend in Kamphaeng Phaet; a very gloomy mood there. What will the Red Shirts do now?

[Up2U]

Thailand’s political transition intervened by foreign allies: Junta leader
Submitted by editor2 on Mon, 08/08/2016
The Thai junta premier welcomed the draft charter referendum result, saying the referendum was opened and transparent and pointed out that Thailand’s foreign allies have intervened in its political transition.

After the unofficial result of the 7 August public referendum turned out to be in favour of the junta-sponsored draft constitution, the Prime Minister office of Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha, junta leader, on Sunday, 7 August 2016, published a message for foreign media, the BBC Thai reported.... (read more)...
http://prachatai.org/english/node/6454

[Up2U]

Thai referendum: Why Thais backed a military-backed constitution
By Jonathan Head
Southeast Asia correspondent
More than 61% of those who voted backed the new charter.
The result of the referendum on Thailand's new constitution has left many observers around the world baffled.
Why would an electorate, denied any say over who governs them since a coup two years ago, vote to approve a charter which offers them only a semi-democracy?
A charter which was condemned by human rights groups and by the two largest political parties as a means to entrench military rule for many years to come?... (read more)... http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-37013950

[Up2U]

Brussels, 08/08/2016
Statement by the Spokesperson on the constitutional referendum in Thailand
On 7 August, the Election Commission reported that, in a national referendum, a large majority of the people of Thailand have voted in favour of the proposed constitution. During the campaign period, however, there were serious limitations to fundamental freedoms, including restrictions on debate and campaigning.

It is essential that the current restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly are lifted to allow for an open, inclusive and accountable political process. The EU continues to call upon the Thai authorities to create the conditions for a genuine democratic transition leading to early general elections. All main stakeholders in Thailand need to engage in an inclusive dialogue and work together peacefully towards this aim......
http://eeas.europa.eu/statements-eeas/2016/160808_02_en.htm

[Up2U]

Thailand's divisions on display in vote approving new constitution.

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/08/09/world/asia/thailand-junta-constitution-opposition.html?_r=0

[Up2U]

BOYCOTT CAMP REJECTS RESULTS OF ‘FAKE’ REFERENDUM
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - August 9, 2016
BANGKOK — Activists who boycotted the referendum called Tuesday for annulling the results of the junta-backed plebiscite, saying it was neither free nor fair from the start.

Four academics and activists said they want to see the results overturned at a symposium held at Thammasat University to discuss the outcome of Sunday’s vote in which voters adopt by the charter by a large margin.

“We do not accept the results... (read more)... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/08/09/boycott-camp-rejects-results-fake-referendum/

[Up2U]

Pro-coup party supports Prayut for post-election PM
Published: 10/08/2016
One day after Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon indicated no military involvement in politics, plans were announced for a pro-coup political party to back Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha as the post-election prime minister.... (read more)... http://m.bangkokpost.com/news/1057325?refer=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bangkokpost.com%2F

[Up2U]

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand
Press Releases : Comments on the Result of the Constitution Referendum
With regard to some comments from foreign governments and media following the Constitution referendum on 7 August 2016, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to clarify as follows:..(read more)..
http://www.mfa.go.th/main/en/media-center/14/69063-Comments-on-the-Result-of-the-Constitution-Referen.html

[Up2U]

PM appeals to Thais to accept referendum, set aside differences
BANGKOK | BY AMY SAWITTA LEFEVRE AND PANARAT THEPGUMPANAT
Bangkok, Thailand, August 10, 2016.
Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha called on Wednesday for acceptance of the outcome of a referendum that approved a military-backed constitution, saying unity was needed to tackle problems facing the country.... (read more)....
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-thailand-politics-idUSKCN10L0V2?feedType=RSS&feedName=worldNews&utm_source=Twitter&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Reuters%2FworldNews+%28Reuter s+World+News%29

[Up2U]

NEW ‘PEOPLE’S REFORM PARTY’ WOULD SEE PRAYUTH PRIME MINISTER OF ELECTED GOV’T
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - August 11, 2016
BANGKOK — A move to establish a military-friendly political party to appoint the junta leader prime minister again under an elected government was met with mixed reactions in the political sphere, though the consensus was that pro-junta elements and their proxies want a larger political space.... (read more)... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/08/11/new-peoples-reform-party-see-prayuth-prime-minister-elected-govt/

[cdnmatt]

Well, that didn't take long...

[Up2U]

Decades of dominance and a junta’s demise
JAMES L TAYLOR - 11 AUG, 2016
Thailand’s referendum has installed the military junta for the long haul. But could it also be their undoing?

The result is out; it is back to 1978.

No surprises. Now the junta can gloat over its inevitable, foregone conquest and lecture the Western world about minding its own business, which they were quick to do after the win.... (read more)...
http://www.newmandala.org/decades-dominance-juntas-demise/

[Up2U]

World | Thu Aug 11, 2016
Thai police want to intercept phone calls in 'national security' cases
BANGKOK | BY AUKKARAPON NIYOMYAT
A new scheme that would allow Thai police to intercept telephone calls in national security cases has been put forward to cabinet for approval, police said on Thursday, a move that has alarmed rights groups.... (read more)...
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-thailand-security-idUSKCN10M0OC?feedType=RSS&feedName=worldNews&utm_source=Twitter&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Reuters%2FworldNews+%28Reuter s+World+News%29

[Up2U]

Thailand Bombings Suggest Mounting Anti-Junta Sentiment
Nash Jenkins
An investigation official collects evidence from the crime scene after a small bomb exploded in Hua Hin, Thailand, on Aug. 12, 2016
At least four were killed in the series of explosions in Thai tourist towns

A string of bombings across Thailand has left four dead and upwards of 20 injured in what experts say was a coordinated attempt to undermine the country’s military junta....(read more)... http://time.com/4449708/thailand-blasts-junta-referendum/?xid=tcoshare

[Up2U]

Thailand attacks: who are the likely perpetrators?
Coordinated bomb and arson incidents in southern Thailand, home to an insurgency, could signal new phase of confrontation
Thitinan Pongsudhirak in Hua Hin
Friday 12 August 2016
The coordinated bomb and arson attacks across Thailand’s southern provinces may signal a new phase of confrontation and brinkmanship, following the vote in favour of a military-backed constitution in a referendum on Sunday.
Such incidents are not unheard of in Thailand. Violence and mayhem is an almost daily occurrence in the three southernmost provinces of Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat, where a deadly Malay-Muslim insurgency pushing for greater administrative autonomy from Bangkok has raged for more than a decade.... (read more)... https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/aug/12/thailand-attacks-who-are-likely-perpetrators?CMP=share_btn_fb

[Up2U]

Northeast still hostile to junta: E-saan Poll
Submitted by editor2 on Thu, 11/08/2016
Despite the junta’s attempt to restrict criticism of the regime-backed draft charter, a public poll conducted in northeastern Thailand, the Isaan region, shows that Isaan people are still hostile to the military regime.

E-saan Poll, a public poll of the Faculty of Economics of Khon Kaen University, reveals that 60.3 percent of Isaan people rejected the draft constitution while 65.8 per cent were against the second referendum question on allowing the unelected senate to jointly vote with the House of Representatives to select the future Prime Minister, Isaan Record news reported.... (read more)... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6468

[Up2U]

Thailand's Power-hungry Generals - August 12, 2016

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/08/13/opinion/thailands-power-hungry-generals.html?ref=international&_r=0

[Up2U]

THIS IS NOT THE END OF THAI DEMOCRACY
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - August 13, 2016
Retention A week before the referendum on the junta-favored charter draft, which ended in a decisive victory for a constitution written entirely by junta appointees, I asked a taxi driver how he would vote.

The question was posed out of curiosity, and the driver’s answer made me even more curious.... (read more).... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/opinion/2016/08/13/not-end-of-thai-democracy/

[Up2U]

Bombs, facts, and myths in southern Thailand
ANDERS ENGVALL - 13 AUG, 2016
Truth shouldn’t also be a casualty after Thailand’s 10-12 August bombings.

It is no surprise that Thai authorities go out of their way to rule out Malay-Muslim separatists as potential perpetrators of the string of bombs in the upper south on 10-12 August. It is after all what they always do.... (read more)...
http://www.newmandala.org/bombs-facts-myths-southern-thailand/

[Up2U]

August 13, 2016
Thitinan Pongsudhirak -- Violence returns to Thai politics as stakes rise
The latest spate of coordinated bomb and arson attacks in Thailand's southern provinces has left at least four people dead and scores injured, and bears unmistakable political implications. In view of its distinctive targets and its timing, this round of violence may signal a new phase of confrontation and brinkmanship as the stakes in Thailand's political endgame rise following public approval of a new constitution in a referendum on Aug. 7... (read more)... http://asia.nikkei.com/Politics-Economy/Policy-Politics/Thitinan-Pongsudhirak-Violence-returns-to-Thai-politics-as-stakes-rise?n_cid=NARAN012

[Up2U]

Nidhi Eoseewong: Implications of draft charter referendum, its results
Submitted by editor2 on Sat, 13/08/2016
In an interview with Prachatai following the constitutional referendum, Nidhi Eoseewong maintained that the results were due to the lack of free and open debate and criticism. Many people consequently made what seemed the easy choice giving the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) a sort of split legitimacy: While Thais may accept the results, it will be difficult to claim legitimacy with the international community where the process has been seen as unjust from the start. Despite the referendum result, he holds out hope for democracy future.... (read more)... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6469

[Up2U]

REDSHIRTS REJECT LINK TO BOMBINGS, HIT BACK AT PRAYUTH
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - August 13, 2016
BANGKOK — Leaders of the anti-regime Redshirt movement Saturday flatly denied having anything to do with a series of bombs that killed four people and injured 35 in the west and south of Thailand and lashed out at the junta leader for making a “cheap” bid to frame them.... (read more).... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/08/13/reds-say-not-bombers-hit-back-prayuth/

[Up2U]

Andrew MacGregor Marshall
Journalist and author. Lecturer at Edinburgh Napier University.
Coupmakers’ haunted dreams
Can the striking parallels between the 2016 Mothers’ Day attacks in Thailand and the 2007 New Year bombings help us figure out who was responsible?.... (read more)....
https://medium.com/@zenjournalist

[Up2U]

MOTHER’S DAY BOMBINGS: ARREST ON OIL RIG, UNKNOWN NUMBER DETAINED BY JUNTA
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - August 14, 2016
BANGKOK — Police announced Sunday morning they have made an arrest in connection with a wave of bombing and arson attacks in seven provinces that left four dead.

On Saturday, officers went to an offshore oil rig in the Gulf of Thailand where they arrested Sakarin Karuehat with a court-approved warrant in connection with the a fire at a Tesco-Lotus in Nakhon Sri Thammarat province.... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2016/08/14/mothers-day-bombings-arrest-oil-rig-unknown-number-detained-junta/

[Up2U]

Thai blasts a wake up call for peace?
RUNGRAWEE CHALERMSRIPINYORAT, GUEST CONTRIBUTOR - 14 AUG, 2016
Coordinated bombings, Thailand’s southern conflict and a stalled peace process.
If the recent coordinated attacks in Thailand’s Upper South, which claimed four lives and injured 36, were carried out by southern militants, the next important question is to what extent it would affect the Thai state’s policies towards the ongoing violent resistance in Thailand’s Malay Muslim-majority southernmost region.... (read more).... http://www.newmandala.org/thai-blasts-wake-call-peace/

[Up2U]

OBSERVATIONS ON THE RECENT BOMBINGS
AUGUST 14, 2016
Giles Ji Ungpakorn

A recent article in New Mandala by Anders Engvall outlines a well-argued case for the Muslim Malay militants being behind the spate of bombing on the 11th and 12th August, giving a detailed account of other bombing incidents and also explaining why the Thai authorities would wish to play down the strength and ability of the insurgents. [ http://bit.ly/2bqoOk4 ]

This view is backed up by Anthony Davis, a writer for Jane’s Defence Weekly, who was interviewed by the BBC Thai service..... (read more).. https://uglytruththailand.wordpress.com/2016/08/14/observations-on-the-recent-bombings/

[Up2U]

Sun Aug 14, 2016
Thai police find more unexploded bombs following coordinated blasts
By Wirat Buranakanokthanasan and Pairat Temphairojana | BANGKOK
Thai police over the weekend found and defused five explosive devices that had failed to detonate when an as yet unidentified group carried out a series of deadly bomb attacks on popular tourist spots late last week.

Police said they had arrested one suspect following the bomb and arson attacks on Thursday and Friday that killed four people and wounded dozens more in some of Thailand's best-known southern resorts and islands.... (read more)... http://www.reuters.com/article/us-thailand-security-blast-police-idUSKCN10P078

[Up2U]

South insurgency linked to blasts Forensic work points to similar bombs
Published: 15/08/2016
Reporters Forensic evidence suggests the explosive devices used in multiple... (read more)...

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August 15, 2016
Thai military and insurgents change tack in southern provinces
DON PATHAN, Contributing writer
SI SAKHON, NARATHIWAT, Thailand -- Even as fingers are pointed at southern separatists as among possible suspects behind a string of bombing and arson attacks on Aug. 11 and 12 in southern Thailand, the Thai military is shifting strategy on countering the 12-year old insurgency. By October, the Thai army will reduce its presence in the historically contested southernmost provinces, in favor of outsourcing security responsibilities to volunteers and officials at the village level.... (read more)... http://asia.nikkei.com/Politics-Economy/Policy-Politics/Thai-military-and-insurgents-change-tack-in-southern-provinces?n_cid=NARAN012

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Mother’s Day attackers likely to be junta’s political opponents: Junta security expert
Submitted by editor2 on Mon, 15/08/2016
A security expert for the Thai junta pointed out that the Mother’s Day attack was likely to be connected to the junta’s political opponents.

Panitan Wattanayagorn, advisor on security affairs to Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha, the junta leader and Prime Minister, told BBC Thai on Sunday, 14 August 2016, that the series of arson and bomb attacks in southern provinces of Thailand on 11-12 August 2016 were likely to be connected people who are negatively affected by the policies of the PM and political development.

He said that it was quite clear that the attack was politically motivated by certain groups of people especially “the old powerful groups,... (read more).... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6471

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Political parties need reform to win over dictatorship: PT politician
Submitted by editor1 on Mon, 15/08/2016
Although the August referendum was held under an oppressive atmosphere, a politician from the main opposition party said the political parties are to be blamed for the results, adding that parties need reform to sway voters from authoritarianism.

At a public panel hosted by the Foreign Correspondents’ Clubs of Thailand (FCCT) on Friday, 12 August 2016, Suranand Vejjajiva argued that, in the leadup to the referendum, political parties critiqued the junta-backed draft constitution but didn’t make clear what principles should actually underpin Thailand’s governance....(read more).... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6474

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Bomb probe points South Govt admits insurgents involved
Published: 16/08/2016
The probe into last week's multiple attacks in seven provinces has linked them to a prominent politician...(read more)...

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The real meaning of Thailand’s constitutional referendum
BY Patrick Jory
If history is a guide, Thailand’s latest constitution will be shortlived

Many observers of Thailand’s ongoing debilitating political crisis have been scratching their heads trying to understand how Thai voters approved a draft constitution in the referendum on 7 August 2016 which is so blatantly designed to entrench military rule.

The result of the referendum appeared to show an easy win to the ‘Yes’ camp. Sixty-one per cent of voters approved the draft constitution while 39 per cent voted ‘No’. Fifty-eight per cent also approved a second question, inserted by the regime at the last minute, on whether a non-elected prime minister could be appointed by a joint sitting of the Senate and House of Representatives.... (read more)... http://asaa.asn.au/the-real-meaning-of-thailands-constitutional-referendum/

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Paiboon promises to resolve political deadlock with new ‘Smart’ party
Juthathip Lucksanawong
The Nation August 15, 2016
Former charter drafter Paiboon Nititawan recently made headlines after his decision to create the People's Reform Party, which would pave the way for Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha to become premier again.

Paiboon, also a former member of the now-defunct National Reform Council (NRC), said the party would promote "a good guy" rather than "a dirty politician", and the best man in his judgement was Prayut....(read more)..http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Paiboon-promises-to-resolve-political-deadlock-wit-30292950.html

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Thai Junta launches special TV show to explain views to foreigners
By Asian Correspondent Staff | 15th August 2016 | @ascorrespondent
THAILAND’S military government has launched a special television program that caters to foreign viewers seeking the junta’s views on national politics, but the public relations exercise to restore its human rights image appears to be off to a slow start.

The English-language program, which airs on state-owned television station National Broadcasting Services of Thailand (NBT) and on YouTube, seeks to clarify the military’s moves and decisions via one-on-one interviews with top government leaders, and to provide insight into current developments in the kingdom.... (read more)...
https://asiancorrespondent.com/2016/08/thai-government-launches-special-tv-show/

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Thailand’s August Referendum is result of fear, hope, belief: academic
Submitted by editor4 on Wed, 17/08/2016
A Thai political expert has speculated that the junta’s charter draft will be enacted for only five years before being torn down again by another coup d’etat. Another expert said voters made their decision based on political purpose, instead of the draft’s content.

At a seminar on Thursday, 11 August 2016, lecturers from Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Political Science discussed the 7 August referendum results and the future direction of Thailand under the junta-backed constitution. All lecturers agreed that the landslide victory in favour of the draft and the additional question, which shocked people across the country, was expected... (read more)... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6480

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Prayut mulls staying on as premier EC expects elections on Dec 10 next year Published: 18/08/2016
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has said for the first time that he would agree to...(read more)....

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Thailand’s Military Junta Rigs Constitutional Referendum, Cements Dictatorship
08/15/2016
Doug Bandow
Senior Fellow, the Cato Institute
The Thai people voted for the latest constitution pushed by the reigning military junta. Unfortunately, General/Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha’s dictatorship made a no vote as hard as possible. The Thai people may suffer for years more under this clownish yet brutal caudillo.... (read more).... http://www.huffingtonpost.com/doug-bandow/thailands-military-junta_b_11532754.html

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SEPARATISTS ‘CROSSED RUBICON’ WITH ATTACKS, MAY ESCALATE: EXPERT
By Teeranai Charuvastra, Staff Reporter - August 18, 2016
BANGKOK — Southern insurgents were behind the recent attacks that killed four people and will escalate their campaign of terror if the military government continues to ignore their existence, an expert on national security and terrorism said.... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/08/18/separatists-crossed-rubicon/

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A vague vote and uncertain future
TAWAN MANAKUN & JITTIP MONGKOLNCHAIARUNYA - 17 AUG, 2016
The ambiguous meanings behind Thailand’s referendum result.

Thailand’s military government won a resounding and decisive victory in the country’s controversial referendum on 7 August.

While it is clear that the triumph of the Yes vote will now see the country governed by a military-backed constitution – one that sees the military and elite minority control the country’s politics well into the future.... (read more).... http://www.newmandala.org/vague-vote-uncertain-future/

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Human rights defenders summoned after observing anti-draft charter activity
Submitted by editor4 on Thu, 18/08/2016
Human rights defenders and students activists have been summoned for allegedly conspiring with an anti-junta activist, who is currently on a hunger strike, in hosting a seminar criticising junta-sponsored draft constitution. The human rights defenders insist they merely monitored the seminar.

On Thursday, 18 August, Thai Lawyer for Human Rights (TLHR) revealed that the police in the northeastern province of Khon Kaen have issued a summons of six people to hear accusation for violating the order of the junta’s National Council for Peace and Order. The six include two TLHR staff and Jatuphat Boonpattaraksa aka ‘Phai’, a pro-democracy activist who has staged a hunger strike in jail since 6 August....(read more).... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6487

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Hunger striking activist released on bail
Submitted by editor4 on Fri, 19/08/2016
An anti-junta activist has been released on bail after nearly two weeks of a hunger strike.
On Friday, 19 August 2016, Phu Khiao Provincial Court released Jatuphat Boonpattaraksa, an anti-junta activist from the New Democracy Movement, from the prison of Phu Khiao District, in the northeastern province of Chaiyaphum, reported Matichon Online....(read more).... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6491

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ALLEGED ANTI-JUNTA ELDERLY MILITANTS DENIED BAIL
By Teeranai Charuvastra, Staff Reporter - August 19, 2016
BANGKOK — All of the 15 suspects arrested for allegedly plotting anti-government violence were denied bail release by the military court Friday.

The defendants, who are mostly Redshirt supporters in their 60s, stand accused of belonging to a clandestine network and conspiring in armed struggle against the state, an allegation denied by leaders of the Redshirt movement.... (read more)...
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/08/19/alleged-anti-junta-elderly-militants-denied-bail/

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A new breed of terror in Thailand
PAUL SANDERSON - 18 AUG, 2016
The recent terrorist attacks in Thailand are playing havoc with the country’s domestic politics. Paul Sanderson looks at the implications for the military junta’s grip on government, especially in the wake of the constitutional referendum earlier this month.

As Thais dressed in blue and prepared to take their mothers to dinner at the start of a long weekend, chaotic news of explosions filtered through.... (read more)... http://www.newmandala.org/new-breed-terror-thailand

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15 charged over ‘secret society’
Kampanart Laong,
Angsuma Sridokkham,
Pratch Rujivanarom
The Nation August 20, 2016
PM says suspects wanted to set up ‘state within a state’; lawyer says they were just part of chat group that had never met

SOME 17 suspects have been charged with setting up a secret society - an act Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha described as a bid to set up "a state within" the military-ruled state.... (read more)... http://www.nationmultimedia.com/national/15-charged-over-secret-society-30293361.html

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MEDIA’S SELF-INFLICTED PUNISHMENT IS THE NEW CENSORSHIP
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - August 20, 2016
Public and foreign diplomats are routinely told by the military regime that Thai media enjoys freedom to criticize. That’s only half true at best. The reality is that, two years after the 2014 coup, the selective pressures being applied on some media critical of the junta have just become more subtle and sophisticated, thus rather invisible.

Apparently, the junta doesn’t need to muzzle the media, as at least one outlet has shown it’s willing to strap it on for them.

Take what happened at Voice TV earlier this week....(read more)... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/opinion/2016/08/20/medias-self-inflicted-punishment-new-censorship/

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How long will the Thai junta remain in powerSubmitted by editor2 on Sat, 20/08/2016 Thanks in part to the prospect of a return to elections, the junta-sponsored draft constitution has been approved by a majority vote via the controversial referendum. The attached question of whether an unelected-senate should be allowed to join the house of representatives in selecting the Prime Minister was also approved.
The junta’s role over Thai politics now looks as firm as ever.... (read more)..... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6495?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

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WESTERN GOVERNMENTS’ RESPONSES TO THAI REFERENDUM: PREDICTABLY WEAK
AUGUST 21, 2016 UGLYTRUTHTHAILAND
Giles Ji Ungpakorn

In this blog I have long argued that while any “international bad press” about the Thai junta, generated by the comments from Western governments is welcome, especially when they demand the release of political prisoners, none of these governments can be relied upon or trusted to maintain a principled stand against the military dictatorship. Democratic change can only come about by building mass movements of ordinary people within the country to overthrow military rule.

After the referendum results it was interesting to read the official responses of the United States and the European Union.... (read more).... https://uglytruththailand.wordpress.com/2016/08/21/western-governments-responses-to-thai-referendum-predictably-weak/

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Concerned by curbs on free expression in Thailand, UN rights office calls for ‘prompt return to civilian rule’
19 August 2016 – The United Nations human rights arm today expressed concern about the mounting constraints on the democratic space in Thailand – calling for a prompt return to civilian rule.... (read more)... http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=54722#.V7pa8ugxWf1

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MORE THAN 20 PEOPLE CARRIED OUT SOUTHERN BOMB ATTACKS, POLICE SAY
By Sasiwan Mokkhasen, Staff Reporter - August 22, 2016
BANGKOK — Police believe more than 20 people were involved in the wave of explosions and firebombs that struck seven provinces during Mother’s Day holidays, but only one arrest warrant has been issued so far.... (read more)... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/08/22/20-people-carry-southern-bomb-attacks-police-say/

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Thailand Bombings Expose Guerrillas in the Midst
Attacks raise profile of long-running southern insurgency seeking independent state
By JAMES HOOKWAY
Aug. 21, 2016
BANGKOK—A series of deadly bombings has brought to the fore a long-simmering conflict not far from some of Thailand’s most popular beaches.

For a dozen years, guerrillas in southern Thailand’s three Muslim-majority provinces have waged a brutal campaign to break away from the rest of the mostly Buddhist country and... (read more)... http://www.wsj.com/articles/thai-bombings-expose-hidden-southern-conflict-1471813202

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‘REVOLUTIONARY GROUP’ ALL TALK BUT NO SOLID PLAN, ACTIVISTS SAY
By Teeranai Charuvastra, Staff Reporter - August 22, 2016
BANGKOK — A Redshirt group accused of plotting armed insurrection against the military junta has no capability of doing such a thing, two people familiar with the movement said.... (read more).... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/08/22/revolutionary-group-talk-no-solid-plan-activists-say/

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NEWS ANALYSIS: Isaan, yet again, rejects an undemocratic constitution charter
Posted on 08/23/2016 by The Isaan Record
Since the coup d’état in 2006, Thailand’s Northeast has been the stronghold of opposition to the military....(read more).... http://isaanrecord.com/2016/08/23/isaan-referendum-2007-2016/

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Free speech will pave way for tidy NCPO exit
Published: 23/08/2016
Writer: Suranand Vejjajiva

... (read)....
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Orchestrated efforts to secure 'outsider' PM seat for Gen Prayut
Submitted by editor4 on Tue, 23/08/2016
Kornkritch Somjittranukit
In the aftermath of the 7 August referendum, junta supporters have strategically initiated efforts to ensure that Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha, the current junta head, will be Thailand’s next ‘outsider’ Prime Minister.

While the victory in favour of the junta-sponsored draft constitution in the 7 August referendum seemingly confirmed mass support for the junta regime, the legitimacy of the referendum process has been widely disputed. Gen Prayut himself has nevertheless affirmed he would welcome the role of ‘outsider’ Prime Minister in the absence of other ‘good guys’.... (read more).... http://prachatai.org/english/node/6499

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8 Facebook users indicted for mocking Thailand's PM
Aug 23, 2016.
BANGKOK (AFP) - A Thai military tribunal on Tuesday (Aug 23) indicted eight people with sedition for running a Facebook page that mocked the kingdom's prime minister and junta chief, making them the latest victims of the regime's crackdown on dissent.

The eight Facebook users were arrested in April by military raids in Bangkok and northeast Khon Kaen province, according to Human Rights Watch.... (read more)... http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/8-facebook-users-indicted-for-mocking-thailands-pm

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AFTER HISTORIC DEFEAT, FRACTURED OPPOSITION UNLIKELY TO CHALLENGE JUNTA
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - August 23, 2016
BANGKOK — Things are looking bleak for opponents of the military regime which has been in power since May 2014.

The first 12 months of the junta’s reign saw several failed attempts to dislodge it. And then, the following year saw a failed campaign to reject the constitution it wanted the public to approve in a referendum.... (read more)... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/08/23/historic-defeat-fractured-opposition-unlikely-challenge-junta/

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SENATE WILL ONLY NOMINATE A PM IN EVENT OF DEADLOCK, LAWMAKERS SAY
By Pravit Rojanaphruk, Senior Staff Writer - August 24, 2016
BANGKOK — The Senate under the new constitution will have the authority to nominate its own candidates for prime minister only if the upper and lower houses fail to choose one, leading members of the current parliament said.... (read more)... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2016/08/24/senate-will-nominate-pm-event-deadlock-lawmakers-say/

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Updated Statistics of Civilians Being Tried in Military Courts Since The 2014 Coup
August 24, 2016
By admin no.5
Extension of military court jurisdiction over civilians

After the coup d’état on 22 May 2014, the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) issued NCPO Announcement No. 37/2014 about offences under the jurisdiction of military courts, NCPO Announcement No. 38/2014 about offences consisting of several connected acts under the jurisdiction of military courts, and NCPO Announcement No. 50/2014 about weapons of war crimes under the jurisdiction of military courts. These Announcements resulted in the extension of the jurisdiction of military courts to try civilians in certain offences including:... (read more)... http://www.tlhr2014.com/th/?p=1777

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POLITICAL PRISONERS AMONG 476 INMATES TO BE FREED SATURDAY
By Kaewta Ketbungkan, Staff Reporter - August 26, 2016
BANGKOK — An elderly man jailed for bathroom graffiti and Redshirt guards from 2010 are among 476 convicts expected to be freed Saturday, according to information reportedly released by corrections officials.

Two weeks after the first batch of pardoned prisoners walked out of the Bangkok Remand Prison, an activist working with prisoners of conscience said Friday that prison officials have posted a list of prisoners to be released at 9am tomorrow as part of a second wave of royal pardons.... (read more)... http://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2016/08/26/political-prisoners-among-476-inmates-freed-saturday/