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Health minister appoints his chief advisor to head donation probe

13 Sept 09:25 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand’s Public Health Minister appointed his chief advisor, M.L. Somchai Chakrabhand, to lead a committee investigating allegations that 186 hospitals accepted donations from pharmaceutical companies.
The Minister is personally overseeing the probe, which involves 20% of hospitals under his supervision, to address demands for kickbacks (5% of drug product value) reportedly used for hospital welfare funds.
The scandal surfaced following the abrupt transfer of a hospital director over unproven donation allegations, despite his assertion that his hospital ceased accepting such funds in late 2018.

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.