Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning
Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Chuan warns MPs against unruly conduct during the parliamentary debate on government policy statement
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Chuan warns MPs against unruly conduct during the parliamentary debate on government policy statement
13 Sept 03:33Key points summarised by AI
Parliament President Chuan Leekpai warned MPs to maintain discipline during the two-day government policy debate, emphasizing public scrutiny of their conduct.
The debate is scheduled for 28.5 hours, with opposition parties allocated 13.5 hours and government parties 5 hours; any time spent protesting will be deducted from allocated debate time.
The Future Forward Party announced its strategy to focus on broad policy issues such as democracy, human rights, and economic concerns, rather than challenging individual ministers.
The Pheu Thai Party intends to scrutinize Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha's qualifications and Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwan's influence within the government.
Government parties, including Palang Pracharat and Chart Thai Pattana, have instructed their MPs to ensure full attendance and active participation throughout the two-day debate.
Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Today 16:46Key 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.