It's a three-horse race for Democrat party leadership

14 Sept 08:48 Key points summarised by AI

Three candidates—former leader Abhisit Vejjajiva, former MP Warong Dejkitvigrom, and Alongkorn Polabutr—officially entered the Democrat party leadership contest.
In a display of political sportsmanship, rivals Abhisit and Warong endorsed Alongkorn, providing him with the necessary signatures to qualify for the race.
The candidates were assigned election numbers: Abhisit (1), Warong (2), and Alongkorn (3), with primary voting set for November 5 and a general assembly on November 11 to choose the new leader.

Civic groups oppose plan to shift Thai PBS, three other bodies to state budget

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.