Thai Opposition not sure there are enough votes to scupper 2023 budget bill

13 Sept 15:24 Key points summarised by AI

Thai Opposition chief whip Suthin Klangsaeng admits uncertainty about securing enough votes to block the 2023 fiscal budget bill, despite deeming it incorrectly proportioned.
Government parties express confidence the budget bill will pass its first reading, with Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha presenting it and government whips ensuring MP support.
The Opposition criticizes the bill as outdated, arguing it fails to account for changing global situations like the Ukraine war and rising inflation.
Government leaders are emphasizing the importance of MP presence during the three-day debate to maintain a quorum and prevent the opposition from derailing the bill.

Public expects most Kla Tham MPs to back Cabinet in censure vote, NIDA Poll finds

Yesterday 12:30 Key points summarised by AI

A recent NIDA poll indicates that a plurality of the public (30.38%) anticipates Kla Tham Party MPs will vote to support all 18 cabinet ministers targeted in the upcoming no-confidence debate.
Respondents believe the Ministry of Interior (38.78%) and the Prime Minister’s Office (21.37%) will face the toughest questioning during the censure debate.
Economic issues, particularly alleged incompetence in addressing problems (34.27%) and the rising cost of living (25.88%), are cited as the primary concerns for the government during the censure.
The public holds high expectations for the Opposition's case, with 45.65% believing clear, concrete evidence will be presented against all 18 ministers, and 41.22% expecting substantial evidence against specific ministers.