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Bangkok’s multi-billion-baht fire truck scandal still burning after 2 decades

13 Sept 14:17 Key points summarised by AI

The Supreme Administrative Court ordered the heirs of late Bangkok governor Samak Sundaravej to pay 587 million baht for his role in a two-decade-old fire truck procurement scandal, representing 30% of the equipment's overpricing.
The remaining 70% of the 1.95 billion baht overcharge is sought from former deputy interior minister Pracha Maleenont and ex-BMA Fire and Rescue chief Pol Maj-General Athilak Tanchukiat, both convicted in 2013 and currently fugitives.
Samak signed the 6.68 billion baht contract for 315 fire trucks and 30 fireboats in 2004, just before his tenure ended, actively pushing for 'special' procurement methods and securing Cabinet approval despite clear overpricing.
Over 100 procured fire vehicles have remained unused at a port for nearly two decades due to ongoing litigation, accumulating over 1 billion baht in parking and maintenance fees, highlighting the scandal's enduring financial burden.

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.