16 killed in Burkina Faso mosque attack

13 Sept 18:04 Key points summarised by AI

Armed assailants attacked the Grand Mosque in Salmossi, Burkina Faso, on Friday evening, killing 16 people and critically injuring two.
The attack prompted Salmossi residents to flee their homes, underscoring the escalating instability in the country's north.
Burkina Faso has seen a significant rise in jihadist violence since 2015, leading to hundreds of deaths, 300,000 displaced people, and widespread disruption to schools and the rural economy.

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.