96-year-old votes in Kalasin province

13 Sept 13:54 Key points summarised by AI

A 96-year-old woman in Kalasin province, believed to be one of the oldest voters, successfully cast her ballot with assistance.
Kalasin Governor expressed concerns about potential blackouts from an approaching storm disrupting vote counting and ordered generators on standby.
In Nakhon Pathom, police apprehended a vice mayor and a kamnan inspector for alleged vote buying, finding cash and voter lists.
The Prachachart party leader in Yala alleged that district chief officers accepted money from political parties for vote buying, with some voters reportedly refusing the payments.

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.