Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning
Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Australia's conservative government moves into election-winning position
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Australia's conservative government moves into election-winning position
14 Sept 00:03Key points summarised by AI
Australia's Liberal-led conservative government is projected to win the national election, defying pre-election polls that had predicted a victory for the center-left Labor party.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison's coalition is ahead in 72 seats, nearing the 76-seat majority, though it remains uncertain if they will govern with an outright majority.
The conservatives held onto key outer suburban seats, thwarting Labor's strongest path to victory despite Labor's campaign focus on increased spending for health, education, and climate change.
The election saw significant shifts, including former conservative prime minister Tony Abbott losing his seat to an independent, while the mood in Labor camps turned somber as their anticipated win dissipated.
Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Today 16:46Key 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.