Cabinet approves ฿10.5bn central fund for flood relief
Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Piyabutr’s impartiality challenged questioning ISOC officer sedition accusation against 12 politicians and academics
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Piyabutr’s impartiality challenged questioning ISOC officer sedition accusation against 12 politicians and academics
13 Sept 07:42Key points summarised by AI
Future Forward's Piyabutr Saengkanokkul, as House Committee chairman, faces scrutiny from the Palang Pracharat party for summoning a senior ISOC officer.
The ISOC officer, Maj-Gen Burin Thongprapai, had accused 12 politicians and academics, including Future Forward leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, of sedition for comments made at a public forum.
Palang Pracharat alleges Piyabutr's action constitutes an abuse of authority, aiming to obstruct legal proceedings and compromising the House committee's impartiality.
The controversy extends to concerns about the justice system's independence, with warnings against using a judge's self-wounding incident to discredit the judiciary.
ISOC reaffirms the necessity of pursuing legal action against the accused 12, citing potential penalties for authorities failing to perform their duty, while acknowledging the court as the ultimate arbiter.
Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Yesterday 16:46Key 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.