Army chief Gen Apirat warns Thailand is facing “hybrid warfare”

13 Sept 10:33 Key points summarised by AI

Army chief Gen Apirat Kongsompong warned Thailand faces "hybrid warfare" waged by "ill-intentioned politicians," communist ideologues, and "foreign forces" targeting the country's major establishments.
He cited a leading opposition politician's meeting with Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong as an example of foreign interference and criticized proposals to amend Article 1 of the Constitution as a threat to national security and the monarchy.
Gen Apirat accused "foreign educated" academics and politicians of orchestrating anti-government activities, mobilizing youth, and employing propaganda and foreign influence to destabilize society, seize executive power, and change the Constitution.
He defined "hybrid war" as a modern strategy utilizing diverse tools like inciting local unrest, propaganda, foreign interference, and economic pressure to bring about societal changes and achieve political control.

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.