Former deputy finance minister Benja jailed for two years

13 Sept 19:45 Key points summarised by AI

Former deputy finance minister Benja Louicharoen and three ex-revenue officials were sentenced to two years in prison without suspension for malfeasance in office.
They were found guilty of assisting former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra's children in evading or reducing tax liability related to the purchase of over 329 million Shin Corporation shares.
A close aide to Thaksin's ex-wife also had her two-year prison term upheld for being an accessory to the tax evasion scheme.
The Supreme Court dismissed pleas for leniency, citing the serious nature of the offenses, which originated from a 2006 undervalued share deal causing an estimated 15.8 billion baht loss to the state.

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.