Hong Kong braces for more protests as lawmakers go to court

12 Sept 06:04 Key points summarised by AI

Hong Kong anticipates intensified protests following the government's invocation of colonial-era emergency powers to ban face masks.
Pro-democracy lawmakers are legally challenging the mask ban and the emergency powers, asserting they bypass the legislature and risk authoritarianism.
The city descended into chaos, marked by extensive subway closures, vandalism, and two separate instances of teenagers being shot by police amid escalating clashes.
Protesters remain defiant, pledging continued demonstrations while reiterating demands for an independent police inquiry, amnesty for arrested individuals, and universal suffrage.

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.