Sudarat claims PM will defy Constitution if he does not support amendments

13 Sept 10:57 Key points summarised by AI

Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan asserts Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha will violate the Constitution if he fails to support charter amendments, citing it as an urgent government policy.
PM Prayut stated the government would not lead amendment efforts, preferring others to initiate them, and expressed doubt about widespread public support for such changes.
Opposition leaders, including Sudarat and Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, criticized the PM's contradictory stance, questioning his commitment to a policy he presented and accusing him of designing the current charter to prevent changes.

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.