AI In-Brief

Thailand News in Brief

Thai PBS World

Thailand and the world, every day

AI can make mistakes. Please double-check.

Thai hospitals instructed not to postpone vaccination appointments - DPHM

14 Sept 05:36 Key points summarised by AI

Thai hospitals are mandated to uphold vaccination appointments, particularly for high-risk groups (over 60 and those with seven non-communicable underlying diseases), even if they receive fewer vaccine doses than expected.
Deputy Public Health Minister Satit Pitutacha emphasized that the ministry does not want appointments postponed, especially for high-risk individuals who may travel long distances.
The Public Health Ministry is addressing distribution disruptions, with 800,000 more AstraZeneca doses expected next week, followed by two million the week after, aiming for 6.3 million doses total this month.
The minister assured that the government is working to widely and quickly distribute vaccines, denying political motivation behind distribution issues and attributing them to prioritization for high-infection areas.

Today 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham party leaders sparked rumors of a potential merger, though Bhumjaithai's leader, Anutin, downplayed it as a casual meal.
The meeting is widely interpreted as a strategic message from Bhumjaithai to the Pheu Thai party, signaling alternative support ahead of an upcoming no-confidence debate.
Thailand's Constitution (Section 99) currently prohibits direct mergers of parties with sitting MPs during the House's term, a rule designed to prevent the 'buying and selling' of MPs.
While direct mergers are restricted, MPs can still switch parties if dismissed by a three-fourths party vote or if their party dissolves, allowing for indirect political realignments.
Kla Tham's voting behavior in the censure debate will demonstrate its loyalty to the government, potentially influencing future political dynamics despite current merger restrictions.