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25 Thai celebs investigated over criticism of government, PM, one rapper ‘Milli’ fined

13 Sept 08:04 Key points summarised by AI

Thai authorities are investigating 25 celebrities for publicly criticizing the government and Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, primarily over the national vaccine rollout and pandemic measures.
The trend of celebrity criticism, dubbed “Celeb Callouts,” intensified after rapper Milli was fined 2,000 Baht for defamation following a lawsuit filed by the Prime Minister’s lawyer.
Celebrities under investigation could face charges for defamation if they targeted specific government members, or computer crime charges for allegedly entering false information into a computer system.
The surge in celebrity criticism coincides with record-breaking daily COVID-19 infections and the escalating severity of the pandemic in Thailand.

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.