Ex-PM Chuan to join the race for House speakership

14 Sept 00:32 Key points summarised by AI

The Democrat party officially nominated former Prime Minister Chuan Leekpai as its candidate for the House Speaker position.
Leekpai will compete against two other contenders: Sompong Amornvivat, representing the Pheu Thai-led coalition, and Suchart Tancharoen from the Palang Pracharat party.
A coalition of seven pro-democracy parties, holding 244 votes, plans to support Sompong, particularly if the Democrat party aligns with Palang Pracharat.
In a separate development, the Senate elected Pornpetch Wichitcholachai as its speaker, with General Singsoek Singprai and Supachai Somcharoen as deputy speakers.
The Chart Thai Pattana party, commanding 10 MPs, announced its decision to join the Palang Pracharat's coalition.

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.