Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning
Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Driving license point deduction system to be introduced in mid-December
AI In-Brief
Thailand News in Brief
Thai PBS World
Thailand and the world, every day
AI can make mistakes. Please double-check.
Driving license point deduction system to be introduced in mid-December
21 Sept 14:23Key points summarised by AI
A new point deduction system for driving licenses is set to launch in mid-December, aiming to enhance driver discipline and significantly reduce road fatalities and injuries.
Each licensed driver will begin with 12 points, which are electronically deducted for traffic violations. Losing all points results in a 90-day license suspension, requiring mandatory training to restore full points.
Offences are categorized by severity, leading to deductions of 1, 2, 3, or 4 points, covering infractions from using a cell phone while driving to serious violations like drunk driving, hit-and-run, or reckless endangerment.
Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Today 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.