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Pre-university tests will have to be postponed, not election: Gen Prawit

13 Sept 10:34 Key points summarised by AI

Deputy PM Gen Prawit Wongsuwon affirmed the general election scheduled for Feb 24 will not be postponed.
He directed the rescheduling of national pre-university tests (GAT/PAT) to accommodate over 6 million student voters and teaching staff.
The National Institute of Education Testing Service (Niets) had initially set test dates, which conflicted with the proposed election, leading to concerns about voter disenfranchisement.
Both Gen Prawit and Deputy PM Wissanu Krea-ngam emphasized that postponing the pre-university tests is the definitive solution over altering the election date.

Yesterday 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.