Four national parks to cede some land for reservoirs

23 Sept 06:18 Key points summarised by AI

The Cabinet approved a Ministry of Agriculture proposal to reallocate land from four national parks for the construction of Royal Irrigation Department reservoirs.
Specific areas from Plew Waterfall, Kaeng Krachan, Sri Lanna, and Doi Phu Nang national parks will be used, with the reservoirs collectively holding 105.7 million cubic meters of water to bolster agricultural water security.

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.