Democrat party opposes EC’s party-list seat calculation method

15 Sept 01:06 Key points summarised by AI

The Democrat party has joined Pheu Thai and Future Forward parties in opposing the Election Commission's (EC) formula for calculating party-list seat allocations.
They argue the EC's method does not accurately reflect the voice of the voters and violates Article 91 of the Constitution, which mandates seat allocation should mirror the people's votes.
The Democrat party insists that any party receiving fewer than 71,168 votes should not be allocated party-list seats, a point of contention as the EC awarded seats to 12 smaller parties below this threshold.
The party plans to take legal action to challenge the EC's calculation, seeking justice and fairness in the allocation process.

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.