Prachatham Thai party breaks from coalition after not getting Chair of a House committee

13 Sept 23:20 Key points summarised by AI

The Prachatham Thai party, a minor coalition member, announced its break from the government after failing to secure a chairman's seat on one of the 35 House committees.
Party leader Pichet Sathirachavan cited ongoing marginalization of smaller parties, noting their previous inability to gain cabinet or vice-ministerial posts, making their continued participation pointless.
This defection significantly weakens the government's already slim majority, rendering it more vulnerable in the House.
The House Speaker's secretary, Somboon Uthaiwienkul, defended the allocation process, stating that committee chairs are distributed proportionally to each party's number of MPs, as specified by Section 60 of the Constitution.

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.