Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
PM insists he did not intentionally omit words during his oath taking
AI In-Brief
Thailand News in Brief
Thai PBS World
Thailand and the world, every day
AI can make mistakes. Please double-check.
PM insists he did not intentionally omit words during his oath taking
14 Sept 07:47Key points summarised by AI
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha asserted he had no intention to truncate his oath during the swearing-in ceremony and will personally resolve the issue.
A former legal advisor, Mr. Ruangkrai Leekitwattana, petitioned the attorney-general, demanding a Constitutional Court ruling on the PM's incomplete oath, citing a constitutional violation.
The Office of the Attorney-General will consider forwarding the case, with Mr. Ruangkrai able to take it directly to the Constitutional Court if there's no OAG response within 15 days.
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.