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Ex- poll commissioner Somchai discloses why he rejected Yingluck government’s BAAC’s 20Bn baht loan

18 Sept 02:39 Key points summarised by AI

Former Election Commissioner Somchai Srisutthiyakorn revealed his 2014 rejection of the Yingluck government's 20 billion baht loan request from BAAC to pay rice farmers.
The caretaker government sought approval for the loan, assuring repayment within 2-3 months from a G-to-G rice deal, putting the EC in a difficult position.
Somchai questioned the repayment timeline, discovering it would take two years, which directly contradicted the government's short-term claim.
Citing Section 181 (3) of the Constitution, Somchai deemed the loan unconstitutional as it would bind the next government, exceeding the caretaker period.
Somchai concluded that his rejection protected him from potential legal repercussions, contrasting with officials later imprisoned for their roles in the rice pledging scheme.

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.