King completes Liap Phranakhon procession

13 Sept 08:45 Key points summarised by AI

King Maha Vajiralongkorn concluded the Liap Phranakhon land procession, a vital component of his Coronation Ceremony.
The six-hour parade traversed Bangkok's historic Rattanakosin Island, where the King paid homage at three Royal temples to Buddha images and ancestral relics.
Tens of thousands of well-wishers, clad in yellow, lined the route, cheering "Long Live the King" as the procession, featuring the King on a golden palanquin alongside Queen Suthida and Princess Bajrakitiyabha, passed.

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.