Facts and floods hamper “oath-taking” offensive

23 Sept 04:19 Key points summarised by AI

The opposition's planned parliamentary debate targeting PM Prayut Chan-o-cha for an incomplete oath-taking ceremony faces significant hurdles.
Widespread floods in Thailand make the opposition's focus on a ceremonial issue appear ill-timed and potentially detrimental to their public image.
The irony of attacking Prayut over an oath to a Constitution he championed, combined with the current national crisis, could cause the "offensive" to backfire.
Analysts advise the opposition to conserve their political capital for more impactful scandals rather than expending it on the oath-taking controversy.

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.