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Police fire water cannon, tear gas as HK protesters mass outside parliament

13 Sept 06:48 Key points summarised by AI

Hong Kong police deployed water cannon and tear gas against pro-democracy protesters who defied a ban to rally outside the city's parliament for the 13th consecutive weekend.
Demonstrators, many in black T-shirts, blocked roads and chanted slogans, with some engaging in confrontations by throwing projectiles and setting fires.
Tensions escalated as protesters breached barriers outside the Legislative Council, echoing an earlier storming of the building.
The protests, initially against a suspended extradition bill, have evolved into a broader movement demanding greater democracy and resisting Beijing's perceived encroachment on Hong Kong's freedoms.

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.