General Prayut and Thanathorn formally nominated as contenders for PM

13 Sept 05:24 Key points summarised by AI

General Prayut Chan-o-cha and Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit were formally nominated as prime ministerial candidates in parliament.
Both nominees, Prayut and Thanathorn, were absent from the session due to other commitments and a temporary suspension, respectively.
A proposal for candidates to give vision speeches was rejected, but a debate on their qualifications was allowed to proceed without a time limit.
Political observers anticipate the debate will be leveraged by the Pheu Thai-led alliance as a no-confidence motion against General Prayut, prompting his supporters to prepare defenses.

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.