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Supreme Court acquits 6 PAD leaders, jails 3 over protests against former PM

14 Sept 05:01 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Supreme Court acquitted six prominent People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) leaders, including Chamlong Srimuang and Sondhi Limthongkul, of charges related to their roles in the 2008 protests against former Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej.
Conversely, three other PAD core leaders—Chaiwat Sinsuwong, Therdpoom Jaidee, and Amorn Amornrattananon—were sentenced to eight months in prison without suspension for their involvement in the same demonstrations.
The charges stemmed from prolonged mass protests staged by PAD from May to October 2008, which aimed to unseat the government and led to accusations of sedition and illegal public assembly after the government's departure.

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.