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Court seizes 897m baht from former secretary of disgraced commerce minister Boonsong

13 Sept 11:47 Key points summarised by AI

The Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Public Office ordered the seizure of approximately 897 million baht in assets from Dr. Veeravuth Watjanapukka, former secretary to convicted commerce minister Boonsong Teriyaphirom.
Dr. Veeravuth was implicated in the fraudulent government-to-government (G-to-G) rice deals, which led to Boonsong's heavy prison sentence for malfeasance.
Accused of being unusually rich by the National Anti-Corruption Commission, Veeravuth jumped bail and fled abroad during his trial, failing to challenge the demand for asset confiscation.
The seized assets, totaling 897 million baht, were held across various individuals, including Dr. Veeravuth himself, his ex-wife, mother, daughter, and father.

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.