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Tanat Thanakitamnuay – the royalist rich kid turned ‘wounded hero’ for democracy

14 Sept 06:24 Key points summarised by AI

Tanat Thanakitamnuay, once a prominent royalist and PDRC leader who supported the 2014 coup, has dramatically shifted his political stance to become a vocal anti-government activist.
He gained significant attention after reportedly losing sight in one eye from a projectile during an August 13 anti-government protest, positioning him as a 'wounded hero' for the democracy movement, though police dispute the cause.
Now a 'reformed salim,' Tanat actively leads protests demanding Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha's resignation, publicly apologizing for his past support of conservative factions and engaging with the anti-establishment movement.

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.