PM told to read out of the text of policy statement verbatim

13 Sept 16:30 Key points summarised by AI

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha faced protests for improvising his policy statement in parliament, deviating from the required verbatim reading.
Opposition MPs and Parliament President Chuan Leekpai repeatedly instructed the PM to adhere to the precise text, emphasizing parliamentary regulations and the need for accurate official records.
The PM's taunts towards objecting MPs were met with sharp rebukes, as MPs asserted that parliament is not a military barracks and members are not subordinates to be ordered around.
The parliamentary session commenced with a legal challenge to the cabinet's legitimacy, stemming from the Prime Minister's omission of words during his oath-taking ceremony.

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.