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Opposition spokesman says he would not have appointed Thammanat as a minister

25 Sept 07:14 Key points summarised by AI

Opposition spokesman Adisorn Piangkate declared he would not appoint Captain Thammanat Prompow as minister, citing his 'tainted record.'
Adisorn's remarks followed a Sydney Morning Herald (SMH) investigative report detailing Thammanat's 1993 drug conviction in Australia.
The SMH exposé revealed Thammanat's involvement in a 3.2 kg heroin smuggling case, leading to a six-year prison sentence.
Thammanat dismissed the report as an old political attack by opponents, refusing to acknowledge its importance.

Yesterday 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.