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Prayut rules out cabinet reshuffle, says will return to power only through election

13 Sept 10:36 Key points summarised by AI

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha dismissed the possibility of a cabinet reshuffle after four core ministers resigned from the pro-junta Palang Pracharat party to focus on election campaigning.
Prayut declared he would seek to return to power exclusively through an election, explicitly ruling out exploiting a provisional constitutional clause to be re-appointed as an 'outsider' prime minister.
He indicated a decision on aligning with a political party is forming but awaits a formal 'invitation' and will evaluate party policies for compatibility before committing.
The four resigning ministers, led by Palang Pracharat leader Uttama Savanayana, stated their full dedication to the party's election efforts, with the party's prime ministerial candidate to be decided between February 4-8.

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.