VOA News | Monday, January 1, 2024 
Hundreds of Muslims in Thailand Protest Israel’s Bombing of Gaza

BANGKOK — Thailand has seen an eventful year filled with twists and turns that has reshaped the country’s political and societal landscape. A new government has ended nearly a decade of military rule, but the wishes of Thai people remain unfulfilled. Thailand saw a return to power for the Pheu Thai party, now led by real estate tycoon Srettha Thavisin, following the May general elections. Pheu Thai’s pathway to government meant they had to form a coalition including pro-military parties after election winners the Move Forward Party were blocked by the Thai Senate. But the return of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra following 15 years of exile could boost optimism towards Pheu Thai. Party founder Thaksin had been sentenced to eight years in prison upon his return but was given a royal pardon slashing the sentence to just one year. That leniency, and his popularity, have raised questions about how Thaksin’s influence will affect Thailand’s political landscape in the future. – Economic focus – Prime Minister Srettha has pledged to focus on improving Thailand’s economy...Read more