Not guilty: Senate acquits Trump of impeachment charges

13 Sept 13:37 Key points summarised by AI

President Donald Trump was acquitted by the U.S. Senate on two articles of impeachment, marking only the third presidential trial in American history.
The Senate votes for acquittal were largely along party lines, with 52-48 on abuse of power and 53-47 on obstruction of Congress, falling short of the two-thirds majority required for conviction.
The impeachment stemmed from accusations that Trump pressured Ukraine to investigate political rival Joe Biden for personal gain, leading to charges of abusing power and obstructing Congress.
Trump claimed "victory" and used the acquittal as a political anthem for his reelection campaign, while Democrats criticized the trial's swiftness and the Senate's refusal to call witnesses.
The outcome highlighted the nation's deep partisan divide, with only one Republican, Mitt Romney, breaking party lines to vote guilty on the abuse of power charge.

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.