Pheu Thai MP-elect in Chiang Mai slapped with orange card by EC

13 Sept 13:18 Key points summarised by AI

Pheu Thai MP-elect Suraphol Kiatchaiyakorn received an "orange card" from the Election Commission (EC) for alleged vote buying in Chiang Mai's Constituency 8.
This ruling suspends Suraphol's right to contest for one year and mandates an election re-run in the constituency.
Suraphol denies involvement in the investigated 'Pha Pa' ceremony but admits to a personal 2,000 baht donation to a monk, asserting it was not for electoral gain.
The EC will refer the case to the Supreme Court to seek revocation of his voting rights, and his votes will not count towards Pheu Thai's party-list seat calculations.

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.