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Seripisut defends candidate caught in drug raid as innocent until proven guilty

20 Sept 22:17 Key points summarised by AI

Seri Ruam Thai party leader Seripisut Temiyavet defends party candidate Suban Mahachanon, arrested in a drug raid, asserting his innocence until proven guilty.
Seripisut clarified he doesn't personally know Suban, explaining that photos with party members are common and Suban's arrest was due to his presence at the crime scene.
Suban was apprehended by anti-narcotics police at a container yard in Chonburi where approximately 985kg of crystal methamphetamine was discovered hidden in shoe boxes within containers bound for the Philippines.
Seripisut highlighted that formal charges and the decision to proceed to court rest with the police and prosecutor, not the party.
Expulsion of a party member facing criminal charges requires a two-thirds vote from the executive committee, indicating a process rather than immediate dismissal.

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.