Few twists and turns as Prayut government survives censure

21 Sept 04:15 Key points summarised by AI

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and his Cabinet overwhelmingly survived Thailand's first no-confidence motion in six years, receiving historically low no-confidence votes.
The main opposition party, Pheu Thai, boycotted the vote, exposing deep divisions within the opposition bloc and drawing public criticism for failing to scrutinize the government effectively.
The dissolution of the Future Forward Party, while strengthening the government's majority, simultaneously ignited widespread student protests and an 'off-Parliament' political movement, escalating national tensions.
Despite surviving the censure, the Prayut government faces vulnerabilities from potential Cabinet reshuffles, a struggling economy, and critical social issues like the COVID-19 outbreak and air pollution, which could threaten its stability.

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.