Election Commission rejects 2 PM and 107 party-list candidates

13 Sept 08:10 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Election Commission disqualified 107 party-list and two prime ministerial candidates, out of 2,917 party-list and 68 prime ministerial candidates initially registered.
Reasons for disqualification included a candidate serving a jail term and another lacking the legally required university-level education; disqualified individuals have seven days to appeal to the Supreme Court.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

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.