Opposition trains its guns on Prayut government

13 Sept 11:03 Key points summarised by AI

The Prayut government faces its inaugural no-confidence debate, with Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and five other Cabinet members targeted over allegations of failures, corruption, and abuse of power.
The debate's anticipated intensity is muted by the recent dissolution of the Future Forward Party and the subsequent political ban on its key 'rising stars,' weakening the opposition's parliamentary presence.
Despite serious accusations, the government holds a clear majority in the House of Representatives (263 vs 224 seats), positioning it to comfortably survive the no-confidence vote.
Disbanded Future Forward politicians plan a parallel 'off-Parliament' debate, expected to be a more unconstrained and 'electrifying' platform for heated accusations against the government.

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.