Thanathorn may attend parliament opening and 1st House meeting

13 Sept 11:01 Key points summarised by AI

Future Forward party leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit is permitted to attend the formal opening of parliament and the first House meeting, as his temporary suspension order from the Constitutional Court has not yet been formally received.
The Constitutional Court voted 8:1 to suspend Thanathorn's parliamentary membership after accepting the Election Commission's media share ownership case against him.
Despite initial attendance, Thanathorn will be required to cease his duties as an MP and leave the meeting after taking the constitutionally mandated oath.
Separately, the Senate's first meeting will proceed to elect its speaker and two deputy speakers, with Mr. Pornpektch Wichitcholachai, a former president of the junta-appointed National Legislative Assembly, expected to be elected Senate speaker.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Yesterday 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.