Democrat Party to file defamation suit against Nakhon

13 Sept 23:11 Key points summarised by AI

The Democrat Party will file a defamation lawsuit against former MP Nakhon Machim for accusing them of conspiring with the military and judiciary to topple the governments of Thaksin and Yingluck Shinawatra.
Nakhon, a former Democrat who defected to the Chart Pattana Party, made these allegations on social media, implying the Democrat Party worked secretly to remove their political rivals.
The party's head of legal affairs, Mr. Wirat Kallayasiri, stated the lawsuit has the approval of leader Abhisit Vejjajiva and suggests Nakhon's actions are politically motivated to align with the Pheu Thai Party.

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.