Eight bodies recovered from buried house in Nan

13 Sept 23:40 Key points summarised by AI

Eight members of the Akkra family died after their house in Nan province was buried by a landslide following heavy rains.
Authorities evacuated 260 villagers from the affected area due to a new 200-meter crack on the mountain, indicating a high risk of further landslides.
Officials will investigate soil samples to determine the landslide's cause and develop prevention strategies for the high-risk villages located at the foot of the mountain.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Today 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham party leaders sparked rumors of a potential merger, though Bhumjaithai's leader, Anutin, downplayed it as a casual meal.
The meeting is widely interpreted as a strategic message from Bhumjaithai to the Pheu Thai party, signaling alternative support ahead of an upcoming no-confidence debate.
Thailand's Constitution (Section 99) currently prohibits direct mergers of parties with sitting MPs during the House's term, a rule designed to prevent the 'buying and selling' of MPs.
While direct mergers are restricted, MPs can still switch parties if dismissed by a three-fourths party vote or if their party dissolves, allowing for indirect political realignments.
Kla Tham's voting behavior in the censure debate will demonstrate its loyalty to the government, potentially influencing future political dynamics despite current merger restrictions.