AI In-Brief

Thailand News in Brief

Thai PBS World

Thailand and the world, every day

AI can make mistakes. Please double-check.

Thousands of Thai police on standby to deal with protests on Saturday

14 Sept 01:44 Key points summarised by AI

Thousands of Thai anti-riot police are on high alert and deployed across Bangkok to manage anticipated protests by several activist groups on Saturday.
Police leadership assessed the situation, emphasizing readiness of crowd-control equipment and personnel, while traffic police will manage affected roads; barriers will not be pre-erected but can be adjusted.
Specific protest plans include the Redem group marching from Lat Phrao intersection to the Criminal Court, and red-shirt followers rallying at the army unit in Bangkhen.
A prominent activist, Jatuporn Promphan, voiced concerns over the leaderless nature of the protests, warning of potential violence and urging police to avoid confrontations, highlighting an upcoming Constitutional Court ruling as a future flashpoint.

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.