The Online Citizen

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APHR asserts Thai people’s right to genuine democracy amid second PM vote

As Thailand prepares for its second Prime Minister vote, the ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APHR) call for urgent reforms to the Thai constitution. APHR’s Charles Santiago advocates for a ‘genuine democracy’ and condemns existing rules that uphold military’s political stronghold, impeding authentic democratic transformation.

What is Thailand’s royal defamation law?

Thailand’s strict royal defamation laws hinder reformist party’s government formation, facing opposition from military-appointed senators.

Thai reformist faces second uphill battle in bid to become PM

Reformist Pita Limjaroenrat seeks endorsement as Thailand’s prime minister, facing opposition from military-appointed senators and potential disqualification, while a compromise candidate and political unrest loom as possibilities.

APHR calls on Indonesia to champion human rights, democracy, and climate action in ASEAN

The ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APHR) urge Indonesia, as ASEAN Chair, to take a decisive lead in addressing regional human rights issues, bolstering democracy, and advancing climate protection initiatives.

Weakened Typhoon Talim hits Vietnam after passing through China

Typhoon Talim passes through China and Vietnam with minimal damage, no reported deaths, but concerns of heavy rains persist.

Indian tycoon Adani slams ‘malicious’ Hindenburg report

Indian tycoon Gautam Adani denies fraud accusations against his group, calling them a deliberate attempt to damage its reputation.

Succession plan: Cambodia PM’s favoured son on path to power

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen’s dynastic succession plans raise concerns about democracy, resembling North Korea, and stifling reform.

Philippines’ Marcos signs US$9 bn wealth fund into law

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos signs a law creating a US$9 billion sovereign wealth fund to stimulate economic growth and infrastructure spending, despite critics warning of potential misuse and public opposition. The fund, named the “Maharlika Investment Fund,” will draw funds from various sources, including the national government, gaming revenue, and private investments. Marcos assures transparency and prudent management of the fund.

Sri Lankan leader seeks to disarm India’s China fears

Sri Lanka’s president visits India amidst concerns over China’s influence and economic crisis, as India aids the island nation while maintaining its own interests in the region. Debt restructuring and infrastructure projects are key topics in discussions between the two nations.

The sharp contrast of PM Anwar pledging completely clean government and PM Lee saying “no system can be completely infallible”

Opinion: While PM Anwar of Malaysia unequivocally vows to rid his country of corruption, Singapore’s PM Lee implies room for error amidst recent scandals. This contrast may reflect on their respective leadership as they navigate political storms.