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Balancing act for Prayut as storm over party leadership looms

14 Sept 00:49 Key points summarised by AI

A leadership battle is intensifying within Thailand's ruling Palang Pracharath Party, as influential chief strategist General Prawit Wongsuwan is being pushed to replace current leader Uttama Savanayana.
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha faces a delicate balancing act, needing to maintain party unity amid factional pressures for cabinet reshuffles and leadership changes, especially with crucial Covid-19 loan decrees pending House approval.
Prawit, a deputy prime minister with extensive political experience and strong connections, is favored by key factions over Uttama, a technocrat, despite Prawit's past controversies.
The party's upcoming mid-June general meeting could see a new executive board elected, potentially solidifying Prawit's leadership and impacting the stability of Prayut's government if internal conflicts persist.

Today 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.