Chuan rejects last-minute bid to cancel Opposition debate

14 Sept 05:20 Key points summarised by AI

House Speaker Chuan Leekpai dismissed a last-minute attempt to cancel an Opposition debate against Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.
The bid to cancel, based on potential conflict with a Constitutional Court ruling on the PM's oath, was rejected after Chuan confirmed the debate's constitutionality with legal experts.
The Opposition voluntarily shortened the debate from midnight to 6 pm to allow MPs to attend an important Royal religious ceremony, ensuring all 15 scheduled speakers would still participate.
The government's chief whip, however, proposed an even earlier conclusion for the debate, suggesting it end by 4 pm at the latest.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

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.