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Thailand’s protest leaders Rung, Mike and Pai formally charged with lèse majesté

14 Sept 01:40 Key points summarised by AI

Three core leaders of Thailand’s anti-establishment Ratsadon group – Panusaya “Rung” Sitthijirawattanakul, Panupong Jardnok (Mike Rayong), and Jatupat Boonpattararaksa (Pai Daodin) – were formally charged with lèse majesté and incitement of public unrest.
These charges relate to their participation in protests held in front of Thammasat University and Sanam Luang during September 19th and 20th last year.
In addition to the core leaders, 18 other Ratsadon members faced various lesser charges, including incitement, with 17 formally indicted by public prosecutors today.
Several other prominent Ratsadon activists, including Parit Chiwarak and Anon Nampa, are already held on remand for similar lèse majesté charges or other protest-related offenses.

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.