National budget bill declared legal by Charter Court

2 Oct 17:33 Key points summarised by AI

The Constitutional Court ruled 5:3 that three absentee votes did not nullify the 3.2 trillion baht national budget bill, easing pressure on the Thai Government.
Despite upholding the bill's legality, the court ordered the House of Representatives to conduct a fresh vote for its second and third readings.

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.