Pheu Thai-led alliance in rearguard battle

27 Sept 23:05 Key points summarised by AI

The Pheu Thai-led alliance's initial optimism, boosted by Princess Ubolratana's prime ministerial candidacy, quickly transformed into a defensive struggle to secure the 376 parliamentary seats needed for power.
Previously influential "swing parties" now view joining the Pheu Thai alliance as politically, legally, and strategically risky, shifting their leverage and likely favoring Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.
Internal challenges, including a 'branch out' strategy leading to fewer projected seats and ideological turmoil among its members, further undermine the alliance's ability to reach its 376-seat target, making it highly improbable.

Flooding persists in Bangkok and 22 provinces

Today 16:00 Key points summarised by AI

Persistent flooding continues across Bangkok and 22 Thai provinces, though water levels are gradually receding in many affected areas.
Over 604,000 families, impacting approximately 1.83 million people, are still grappling with the widespread flood conditions.
The national flood death toll has reached 80 since mid-September, with fatalities reported across various provinces.
Major regions like Pathum Thani, Ayutthaya, and Bangkok report significant numbers of affected households, with hundreds of thousands still in trouble.