Prayuth most favoured PM candidate while Pheu Thai party leads - Nida Poll

14 Sept 04:06 Key points summarised by AI

Prayuth Chan-o-cha leads as the most favoured prime ministerial candidate, securing 26.06% support in the recent NIDA Poll.
The pro-Thaksin Pheu Thai party is ahead in party preference, polling 36.49%, significantly outperforming Palang Pracharat (22.57%) and the Democrat party (15.21%).
Sudarat Keyuraphan of Pheu Thai ranks second among PM candidates with 24.01%, while Democrat leader Abhisit Vejjajiva is fourth.
Conducted between Feb 4-7 with 2,091 respondents, the poll highlights that 54.85% prioritize standard of living and debt problems for the new government, with 98.13% planning to vote.

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.