Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Civic groups oppose plan to shift Thai PBS, three other bodies to state budget
Thaksin to give lecture on Thailand’s politics at Stockholm University
AI In-Brief
Thailand News in Brief
Thai PBS World
Thailand and the world, every day
AI can make mistakes. Please double-check.
Thaksin to give lecture on Thailand’s politics at Stockholm University
13 Sept 23:45Key points summarised by AI
Ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is scheduled to deliver a lecture at Stockholm University on Thailand's upcoming general elections and political future.
The event, co-organized by the Forum for Asian Studies and the Swedish Institute for International Affairs, will feature exiled academic Pavin Chachavalpongpun as a discussant.
Despite living in exile, Thaksin maintains significant influence in Thai politics, recently hinting at a possible comeback and predicting a strong win for pro-democracy parties.
A staunch critic, Suriyasai Katasila, has called on the Election Commission to investigate Thaksin's activities for potential violations of laws on political party influence.
Civic groups oppose plan to shift Thai PBS, three other bodies to state budget
Yesterday 17:04Key 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.