Medical cannabis researcher defends need to help patients

13 Sept 05:01 Key points summarised by AI

Medical cannabis researcher Decha Siripat asserts his distribution of cannabis oil to patients is a "moral obligation" and a "basic right" to treatment, despite facing charges for illegal possession.
Decha, president of the Khao Kwan foundation, will report to authorities regarding charges from a raid that pre-empted his foundation's amnesty application for cannabis possession.
He advocates for all traditional medical doctors to be permitted to develop cannabis-based medicines for therapeutic use.
The FDA clarified that the amnesty law covers cannabis possession, not distribution, and denied allegations of favoring pharmaceutical companies in medical marijuana research.

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.