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Future Forward wants screening of candidate qualifications before PM election

13 Sept 07:41 Key points summarised by AI

The Future Forward party has formally demanded that the House of Representatives screen the qualifications of all prime ministerial candidates prior to the election, citing constitutional provisions.
This initiative is widely perceived as an effort by pro-democracy factions to challenge the legitimacy of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha's candidacy, focusing on his alleged ties to the junta.
Future Forward argues for a two-step process: an initial qualification review exclusively by the House, followed by the joint election involving both the House and Senate.
With Pheu Thai supporting Future Forward's Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, the contest for premiership is shaping up as a direct confrontation between Thanathorn and PM Prayut, pending the Democrat party's decision.

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.