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Democrats to boycott Friday's meeting if it's chaired by Prayut

21 Sept 07:45 Key points summarised by AI

The Democrat party announced it will boycott Friday's crucial meeting with the "Five Rivers" and Election Commission if Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha presides over it.
They contend the meeting's original intent for open discussion on election issues has been twisted into merely informing political parties of pre-determined plans by the junta.
The party questions PM Prayut's suitability to chair the meeting, citing his conflicting roles as prime minister, NCPO chief, and potential candidate for the next premiership.
A boycott by the Democrats, along with other anti-Prayut parties, threatens to strip the meeting of credibility, reducing it to a gathering of pro-Prayut factions.

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.