Prime Minister Prayut appoints new government spokesman

14 Sept 20:32 Key points summarised by AI

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha appointed Puttipong Punnakan as the new government spokesman, replacing Lt-Gen Sansern Kaewkamnerd, aiming for a "change of atmosphere and image."
Puttipong will prioritize social media and adjust media engagement strategies, while Sansern will now focus full-time on his role as director-general of the Public Relations Department.

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.