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Law change empowers court to hold hearings with defendants in absentia

23 Sept 02:23 Key points summarised by AI

The National Legislative Assembly amended the Criminal Procedure Code, enabling courts to conduct trials and issue verdicts even without the defendant's presence if they jump bail, intentionally skip hearings, or are too ill to attend.
This significant change prevents defendants from exploiting a loophole that previously stalled trials, allowing proceedings to continue three months after an arrest warrant is issued for missing defendants.

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.