Seven struggling digital TV channels return licenses

22 Sept 21:44 Key points summarised by AI

Seven struggling digital TV channels, including Bright TV and Voice TV, have returned their licenses to the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), reducing Thailand's operating channels from 22 to 15.
The affected channels are scheduled to cease broadcasts in August; operators must submit financial reports and provide 30-45 days' notice to their audiences.
The NBTC estimates 38 billion baht in compensation for the exiting operators, which will be funded by the upcoming 700 MHz spectrum auction, while also emphasizing the critical need for operators to compensate laid-off employees.
Mobile operators True, DTAC, and AIS have expressed conditional interest in the 700 MHz spectrum auction, for which the NBTC maintains a fixed 25 billion baht reserve price, allowing operators to withdraw without penalty.

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.