Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Civic groups oppose plan to shift Thai PBS, three other bodies to state budget
Will Samakee Prachachon forum gain momentum?
AI In-Brief
Thailand News in Brief
Thai PBS World
Thailand and the world, every day
AI can make mistakes. Please double-check.
Will Samakee Prachachon forum gain momentum?
13 Sept 23:44Key points summarised by AI
Veteran democracy advocate Jatuporn Prompan launched the Samakee Prachachon forum, aiming to pressure Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha to step down, collaborating with activists from the 1992 Black May event.
Political observers suggest the forum's ideology aligns with other anti-authoritarian groups, indicating that consolidating power could significantly strengthen the overall movement against the Prime Minister.
Skepticism exists regarding the forum's potential impact, with concerns raised about its ability to unite diverse anti-Prayut factions, partly due to some members' past support for the 2014 coup and Jatuporn's strained relationship with Red Shirt supporters.
Current movement leader Patsaravalee 'Mind' Tanakitvibulpon welcomes any group, asserting that a shared demand for Prayut's resignation and a campaign for democracy already constitutes a unified movement, regardless of formal consolidation.
Civic groups oppose plan to shift Thai PBS, three other bodies to state budget
Yesterday 17:04Key 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.