Premchai, his wife and an aide acquitted of illegal possession of ivory

21 Sept 08:47 Key points summarised by AI

Premchai Karnasuta, his wife Mrs. Kanitta, and an aide were acquitted by the Criminal Court on charges of illegal possession and concealment of four ivory tusks.
The court believed Mrs. Kanitta's claim that she inherited the tusks, including two African tusks, from her mother about three decades ago, which were legally registered in 1978, thus rendering her possession lawful.

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.