Defence spokesman defends military budget

13 Sept 11:04 Key points summarised by AI

Lt-Gen Kongcheep Tantravanich asserted that the military's 1 trillion baht spending over five years, representing 7% of the fiscal budget, is transparent and has not increased substantially.
He highlighted that the current defence budget is significantly lower than that under past elected administrations (12.7%) and places Thailand 6th in regional defence spending relative to GDP.
The spokesman justified the budget by detailing the military's extensive non-military responsibilities, including combating illegal logging, fishing, smuggling, and providing disaster relief, alongside Thailand's strategic geographic location.
Arms procurement is presented as a transparent process based on regular risk assessments, essential for maintaining operational readiness and replenishing necessary equipment.

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.