Selection of senators starts today

23 Sept 04:57 Key points summarised by AI

The multi-stage selection process for senators began today with district-level voting across 876 districts to identify preliminary candidates.
The process has seen a lukewarm response, with only 7,210 candidates nationwide, and some districts reporting no candidates.
Candidates who pass district and provincial selections will be shortlisted to 200, from which the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) will select 50, while also directly appointing another 194 senators and including 6 ex-officio members.
The 250 senators, serving a five-year term, will possess legislative and impeachment powers, and critically, will influence prime minister appointments and hold the executive accountable for the 20-year national strategy during their first five years.

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.