NCPO has final say on election day: EC secretary-general

13 Sept 11:37 Key points summarised by AI

The Election Commission (EC) secretary-general clarified that the EC chairman's proposed February 24 election date is merely a "model" for planning purposes.
The National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) holds the ultimate authority in determining the exact election day.
While the election must occur between February 24 (earliest) and May 5 (latest) based on constitutional mandates, the actual date hinges on when the NCPO lifts its ban on political activities.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Yesterday 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul and Kla Tham leader Capt. Thamanat Prompow ignited widespread speculation about a potential merger between their parties.
The meeting is viewed as a strategic message to coalition partner Pheu Thai, indicating Bhumjaithai's alternative options following Pheu Thai's chief whip's remarks about not fully defending all ministers in the upcoming no-confidence debate.
A direct merger between parties with sitting MPs is currently prohibited by Section 99 of the Constitution until the House's term expires, though MPs can switch parties through dismissal or party dissolution.
These constitutional rules aim to prevent financially strong parties from easily absorbing smaller ones, a practice that historically led to single-party dominance, as seen with Thai Rak Thai's 2005 election victory.