Mine closure haunts govtBetween 2014–2019, the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), led by Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha, invoked more than 400 orders using Section 44 of the military government's interim charter. Yet, Gen Prayut was praised -- even by anti-government grassroots activists -- for using this interim regulation in 2016 to close a gold mine operated by Akara Resources in Phichit province. The mine eventually closed in January 2017, and the coup maker was praised for his audacity in standing up against a gold mining company, which was a subsidiary of the Australia-based Kingsgate. Prior to its closure, the company was accused by villagers and conservationists of polluting their community, an allegation the firm sternly denied. In addition, the industry ministry has awarded a gold mining exploration opportunity across the country to the company.

Source: Bangkok Post January 29, 2022 08:12 UTC