Loans allowed Thanathorn to dominate party -- Charter Court

13 Sept 12:37 Key points summarised by AI

The Constitutional Court ruled that Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit's 191-million-baht loan to the Future Forward Party was an attempt to bypass the Political Parties Act, which limits individual contributions to 10 million baht annually.
The court classified the loans, given with below-market interest and unsecured terms, as 'other benefits' rather than legitimate debt, violating Articles 66 and 72 of the political parties law.
This financial arrangement allowed Thanathorn to exert undue influence over the party, contradicting the law's aim to prevent political parties from being dominated by wealthy individuals and ensure their independence.
The ruling resulted in the dissolution of the Future Forward Party and the stripping of MP status from several executive committee members, banning them from active politics.

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.