Former prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva’s return to lead the Democrat Party has brought back a familiar sense of order — and the familiar faces that once defined Thailand’s oldest political institution.

BURI RAM – Farmers in many villages in Muang district are facing severe hardship from the impact of Storm Kalmaegi, which has brought heavy rainfall and strong winds that flattened rice fields just as crops reached full maturity.

Many low-lying areas in the Central Plains are experiencing flooding triggered by increased water discharges from the Chao Phraya barrage, with parts of Ayutthaya province still inundated after three months, residents say.

Politicians have strongly criticised Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s remarks suggesting he might dissolve parliament if a no-confidence motion is tabled, accusing him of attempting to evade democratic scrutiny.

Thailand’s cabinet has approved an extended five-day New Year holiday, adding Friday, Jan 2, 2026, as a special public holiday in a move aimed at stimulating domestic tourism and invigorating the national economy.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) confirmed on Friday that a 12-year-old Thai girl, who was reportedly forced to work at a massage parlour in central Tokyo, is now under the protection of Japanese authorities. The case has sparked widespread concern and is currently under investigation to identify all the individuals involved.