Outgoing President Patrice Talon, 67, is barred under the constitution from running again after two terms in power, and will step down with a legacy of mixed results: economic growth, but also a clampdown on the opposition and critics.
One real benchmark would be that there would be less interest in the insurance commissioners position. Because it's always been kind of under-the-radar. It's become so high-profile because of all the problems that we have.
As Thailand prepares to vote on Sunday in a nationwide election, the country's months-long border dispute with Cambodia continues to cast a shadow over election proceedings. Brief but deadly armed clashes in May last year on a disputed section of the Thai-Cambodia border escalated into the deadliest fighting in a decade between the two countries, killing dozens of people and displacing hundreds of thousands.
Television host Rabi Lamichhane, the 51-year-old chairperson of the Rastriya Swatantra party (RSP), and the 35-year-old rapper turned Kathmandu mayor Balendra Shah pledged to address the demands of the younger generation following September's deadly anti-corruption protests. At least 77 people were killed during the 8-9 September youth-led uprising that was triggered by anger over a brief government ban on social media, building on public frustration after years of economic stagnation and allegations of entrenched political corruption.
Hundreds of thousands of supporters lined the route from the capital's airport to the reception venue, waving party flags and carrying placards, banners and flowers, while chanting slogans welcoming Rahman, as senior BNP leaders received him at the airport under tight security. Dressed in a light grey, finely chequered blazer over a crisp white shirt, Rahman waved to the crowd with a smile.
Attorney Aleshire argues that the ballot language is misleading and does not clarify that the tax increase, if approved, would be permanent. He emphasizes that the City Council is attempting to mislead voters into accepting a significant tax hike.
