1 million students to have their pay deducted to service loans

13 Sept 08:21 Key points summarised by AI

The Student Loan Fund Office plans to deduct salaries from approximately one million government officials and private company employees who have defaulted on student loan repayments.
Salary deductions, ranging from 100-300 baht monthly, will commence this month for officials in the Comptroller Department, expanding to all state agencies by October, and large corporations next year.
This measure targets two million defaulters among the five million students who have collectively received 500 billion baht in loans from the fund.
The office will temporarily suspend asset seizure for Ms. Vipa Banyen, a teacher who guaranteed loans for 21 students, allowing the student-debtors to settle their outstanding debts directly with the fund.

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.