Academics liken senate election to a lucky dip

13 Sept 09:45 Key points summarised by AI

Academics express concern that the new Senate election method, where candidates elect from among themselves, resembles a "lucky dip," potentially resulting in senators disconnected from the public.
The election model is criticized as unprecedented, unfair, and confusing, with allegations that it's designed to allow politicians to "buy" Senate seats.
Experts suggest increasing the number of Senate applicants to prevent political influence and recommend that the Election Commission ease regulations to allow candidates to publicize themselves.
The multi-stage election process includes candidacy registration from May 20-24, district-level elections on June 9, provincial on June 16, national on June 26, with final results expected by July 2.

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.