Thaksin hints at collusion behind “Tak Bai massacre”

13 Sept 13:17 Key points summarised by AI

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra blamed a "collusion among some military officers" for the 2004 Tak Bai massacre in southern Thailand, which resulted in 85 deaths, denying his direct knowledge or responsibility.
Thaksin stated he only instructed police to uphold the law during the protest, claiming he was unaware of the subsequent deaths—where 78 suffocated in army trucks and seven were shot—after military forces took charge of the situation.
He alleged that a Malaysian special branch police officer later informed him the entire incident was staged by military officers who sought to remove him from power.
Despite denying direct involvement, Thaksin offered an apology to the victims' families as prime minister, noting that 18 years later, no members of the security forces have been prosecuted for the incident.

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.