PM cannot attend cabinet or summit due to legal technicality - Piyabutr

13 Sept 14:17 Key points summarised by AI

Future Forward party's Piyabutr Saengkanokkul accuses Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha of violating the Constitution by chairing cabinet meetings after his post-election appointment but before his new cabinet is sworn in.
Piyabutr asserts that Prayut cannot legally perform official duties, including attending the ASEAN Summit or signing orders, until his new cabinet is formally established, warning that current actions may be null and void due to this legal technicality.

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.