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Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Princess Ubolratana says she is now ordinary citizen wanting to bring prosperity to country
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Princess Ubolratana says she is now ordinary citizen wanting to bring prosperity to country
13 Sept 09:52Key points summarised by AI
Princess Ubolratana confirmed she has relinquished her royal titles, asserting her status as an ordinary Thai citizen.
She consented to the Thai Raksa Chart party's proposal for her to be their prime ministerial candidate.
Her decision to enter politics is driven by a sincere desire to bring prosperity to Thailand and exercise her constitutional rights.
The Thai Raksa Chart party verified her qualification, stating she renounced her royal titles in 1972.
Rumors of Pheu Thai party candidates withdrawing to avoid competing with the Princess were dismissed by a party candidate.
Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Today 16:46Key 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.