Former DPM Suthep acquitted of corruption by Supreme Court

13 Sept 12:34 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Supreme Court acquitted former Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban and five co-defendants of corruption charges related to the construction project for 396 police stations.
The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) had accused Suthep and former acting police chief Pol Gen Pateep Tanprasert of malfeasance for combining procurement contracts into a single e-auction in 2009.
The Supreme Court ruled that Suthep, overseeing the Royal Thai Police, possessed the authority to consolidate contracts without cabinet approval, and Pol Gen Pateep had the discretion to choose the procurement method, leading to their acquittal.
Suthep expressed profound relief and vindication after the verdict, stating that the case, which had tarnished his reputation for years, should serve as a reminder that those with good intentions will be protected.

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.