Defence minister unconcerned by threat of protests over “MoU 44”

16 Sept 08:49 Key points summarised by AI

Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai dismisses potential mass protests regarding government negotiations with Cambodia over a disputed Gulf of Thailand claim area under MoU 44, urging legal channels over street action.
Former protest leader Sonthi Limthongkul plans to challenge MoU 44, arguing it's not a treaty, should be cancelled, and risks Cambodia claiming Thailand's Kut Island, while also challenging Phumtham to a public debate.
Sonthi alleges the government prioritizes oil and gas exploitation over territorial sovereignty, disregarding a 1973 Royal Command on continental shelf demarcation and referencing Thailand's historical loss of Preah Vihear temple.

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

18 Oct 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.