Riverside residents in Kanchanaburi told to brace for possible flooding

18 Sept 10:16 Key points summarised by AI

Kanchanaburi’s riverside residents are urged to move belongings to higher ground, anticipating floods due to increased water drainage from three major dams.
Srinagarind, Vajiralongkorn, and Mae Klong dams have significantly increased water release, raising downstream river levels by 20-30 cm, prompting local authorities to prepare for potential flooding.

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.