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Thanathorn insists he was robbed of premiership by the Senate’s influence

14 Sept 02:03 Key points summarised by AI

Future Forward party leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit firmly believes the Pheu Thai-led coalition was robbed of the prime minister election due to the significant influence of the junta-appointed Senate.
He emphasized that the 250 senators directly impacted the outcome, with 500 members voting for General Prayut against 244 MPs for Thanathorn, which he argues does not reflect the will of the Thai people.
Thanathorn dismissed the Senate's independence, noting their near-unanimous vote for Prayut, and urged the public to closely monitor court proceedings against 41 MPs suspected of holding media shares.
Suspended from his MP duties, Thanathorn announced he would now focus on engaging directly with the public, listening to their problems to bring them forward for parliamentary discussion.

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.