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Chart Pattana party wonders if it will ever get a cabinet seat as promised

13 Sept 17:54 Key points summarised by AI

The pro-government Chart Pattana party, holding three House seats, is publicly questioning whether it will receive a promised cabinet portfolio from the core coalition party, Palang Pracharat.
Party spokeswoman Ms. Yaowapa Boorapolchai confirmed they are awaiting the promised seat, emphasizing the party's consistent support for Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and its commitment to coalition stability.
The allocation of one cabinet seat was based on a post-election alliance agreement and a formula of seven MPs per cabinet position, a calculation applied to other coalition partners.
Speculation suggests Chart Pattana's promised seat might be reallocated to a dissident group to prevent internal rebellion, potentially leaving them without a cabinet position.

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.