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Thai celebs who are ready to risk it all for anti-establishment protests

13 Sept 07:10 Key points summarised by AI

Prominent Thai celebrities are actively jeopardizing their careers, public image, and personal freedom by openly supporting anti-establishment protests and advocating for significant political reforms, including changes to the monarchy.
Singer Ammy The Bottom Blues faces severe charges, including lese majeste and arson, for his direct protest actions, such as torching a royal portrait and altering song lyrics to criticize the government.
Actresses Inthira “Sine” Charoenpura and Focus Jeerakul, alongside beauty queen Maria Lynn Ehren Poonlertlarp, leverage their platforms to voice dissent, provide aid to protesters, and condemn state violence, despite facing harsh criticism, legal threats, and potential loss of lucrative contracts.
Film director Yuhtlerd “Tom” Sippapak further exemplifies this commitment by using his artistic medium to critique the government and fund projects that challenge authoritarianism, highlighting the broad spectrum of celebrity involvement.

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.