Supreme Court’s verdict on five UDD core members due on Wednesday

13 Sept 12:52 Key points summarised by AI

The Supreme Court is scheduled to deliver its verdict on Wednesday for seven core members of the red-shirt UDD movement.
The case stems from the illegal siege of Privy Council president Prem Tinsulanonda's residence in July 2007.
Defendants face charges including criminal association, incitement to unrest, possession of firearms, and obstruction of officials.
Both the Criminal Court and Appeals Court previously found five defendants guilty, imposing prison sentences that were upheld or adjusted on appeal.
The five convicted individuals, including Natthawut Saikua and Veerakarn Musikapong, were released on 500,000 baht bail pending this final Supreme Court decision.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Yesterday 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.