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Ex-city police chief acquitted for his role in violent breakup of PAD protest in 2008

13 Sept 07:59 Key points summarised by AI

Former metropolitan police commissioner Pol Lt-Gen Suchart Muenkaew was acquitted by the Supreme Court for ordering the use of tear gas against People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) protesters in October 2008.
Suchart and three other co-defendants, including former Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat, were charged by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for their roles in the violent dispersal that caused deaths and injuries.
The Supreme Court upheld the acquittal, ruling that the use of tear gas was an appropriate measure given the situation, as protesters had laid siege to parliament, and police actions aimed to control the crowd, not inflict harm.
Pol Lt-Gen Suchart expressed profound relief after a ten-year legal battle, affirming the court's decision validated his actions during the protest.

Today 17:04 Key points summarised by AI

Civic groups, including those representing labourers and older people, submitted a protest letter demanding the Bhumjaithai Party withdraw bills to shift funding for four organizations (Thai PBS, Older Persons Fund, Thai Health Promotion Foundation, Sports Authority of Thailand) from earmarked taxes to the central government budget.
Leaders argue these organizations were established for public interest, supporting public service media, elder care, public health, and sports development, and any amendments should consider all stakeholders' views.
Over 70% of parliamentary poll respondents opposed the proposed changes, prompting civic leaders to call on the ruling party to respect the people's will and withdraw the bills.
A network of slum dwellers also opposes the funding changes, threatening a rally if the government fails to address their demands.