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Court hands down heavy jail terms for ex-officials of KMIT Lat Krabang on corruption charges

21 Sept 06:49 Key points summarised by AI

A marathon 15-hour court session concluded with the sentencing of 11 former King Mongkut Institute of Technology Lat Krabang (KMIT Lat Krabang) officials and a former banker.
The defendants were convicted on multiple corruption charges, including embezzlement and money laundering, involving 689 million baht of the institute's funds.
Former banker Songklod Sriprasong and KMIT finance director Ms. Amporn Noisamrith received the maximum 50-year jail terms, despite initial sentences exceeding 190 years.
The former rector, Thawil Pungma, and two other officials were acquitted of all charges, with Thawil expressing gratitude for the court's justice.

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.