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Three Ratsadon leaders promise court they will not mention monarchy issue again if granted bail

13 Sept 08:44 Key points summarised by AI

Three Ratsadon leaders – Somyos Prueksakasemsook, Jatupat Boonpattararaksa, and Patiwant Saraiyaem – pledged to the Criminal Court that they would refrain from mentioning the monarchy issue again if granted bail.
Patiwant Saraiyaem extended his promise, agreeing to withdraw from future protests, avoid monarchy topics, wear an electronic ankle bracelet, and return to his previous profession as a singer.
Another Ratsadon leader, Panusaya Sithijirawattanakul, did not make similar promises regarding the monarchy but requested bail, citing academic disruption and hindered defense preparation, threatening a hunger strike if her request was denied.
The defendants face charges of lèse majesté and sedition related to September 2020 protests; the court did not rule on the bail requests but scheduled a pre-trial hearing for April 7th to allow evidence examination.

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.