Rangsit Uni poll puts Palang Pracharat leading with 21.5 percent

13 Sept 09:24 Key points summarised by AI

Rangsit University's poll projects the pro-junta Palang Pracharat party to win the March 24 election, leading with 21.5% of votes (8.3 million).
The survey, conducted on 8,000 people across 350 constituencies, indicates the Democrat party as second with 18.3% and Pheu Thai third with 16.9%.
Due to the proportional representation system, major parties like Palang Pracharat and Pheu Thai may secure fewer party-list seats, benefiting medium-sized parties such as Bhumjai Thai and Future Forward.
The poll forecasts a coalition government, with Palang Pracharat and the Democrat party forming the core, potentially joined by other parties to command over 300 House votes.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Yesterday 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.