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Having served at least two coups, Meechai insists he is no military lackey

13 Sept 17:52 Key points summarised by AI

Meechai Ruchuphan, a renowned legal expert, played a pivotal role in two successive Thai coups by drafting crucial interim constitutions and executive orders.
He asserts his independence from the military, claiming he was "inadvertently dragged" into these power seizures without prior knowledge of the coup leaders.
Meechai recounts being unexpectedly summoned for the 2006 coup and later for another, emphasizing his lack of personal ties to the generals involved.
He reinforces his autonomy by citing a past defiance of a coup leader's instruction in 1991 and his current unfamiliarity with top military figures.

Yesterday 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.