Britain set for December 12 election to break the Brexit deadlock

25 Sept 07:03 Key points summarised by AI

UK Parliament approved Prime Minister Boris Johnson's request for a general election on December 12, aiming to resolve the prolonged Brexit stalemate.
Johnson pushed for the snap election after parliament, where he holds no majority, consistently frustrated his attempts to ratify the Brexit deal he negotiated with the EU.
This marks Britain's first December election in nearly a century, anticipated to be highly unpredictable due to widespread voter fatigue and deep divisions over Brexit.
The election offers voters a clear choice: either support Johnson's plan to deliver his Brexit deal or opt for Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn's proposal to renegotiate and hold another referendum.
The European Union granted a third Brexit delay until January 31, cautioning that this extension might be the final one.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Yesterday 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.