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BKK governor says he is ready for prison if corruption found in incinerator project

15 Sept 00:31 Key points summarised by AI

Bangkok Governor Aswin Kwanmuang declared his readiness to face prison if corruption is proven in the City Hall's 13 billion baht waste incinerator project.
He denied that the recent resignations of two deputy governors were linked to the incinerator bidding, attributing their departures to health problems and a desire for rest.
The governor asserted that the city administration strictly followed bidding guidelines, received approvals from the NACC, Office of the Auditor-General, and Central Administrative Court, and had not yet awarded the contract, despite earlier NACC inquiries into alleged bidding bias.

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.