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House passes Thailand’s 37.6 billion baht public health budget in its second reading

1 Oct 01:06 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's House of Representatives passed the Public Health Ministry's 37.6 billion baht budget for 2022 in its second reading, despite significant opposition.
Opposition MPs heavily criticized the budget for a lack of transparency and inappropriate allocation for crucial medical supplies and vaccines.
Concerns were specifically raised over the continued procurement of the Sinovac vaccine, undisclosed details of rapid antigen test kit (ATK) deals, and discrepancies in provincial vaccine distribution.
Further scrutiny highlighted insufficient funding for the National Vaccine Institute and a COVID-19 treatment budget smaller than that for cancer, inadequate for current demand.

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.