Nakri develops into typhoon as it heads towards Vietnam

14 Sept 08:10 Key points summarised by AI

Tropical storm Nakri has intensified into a Category 5 typhoon, packing wind speeds of 120kph, as it moves across the South China Sea towards the Vietnamese coast.
The typhoon is predicted to make landfall in Vietnam by tomorrow or Monday at the latest, according to the Thai Meteorological Department.
Nakri will initially bring slight to moderate rain to parts of Thailand’s Northeast and eastern provinces.
Separately, a cold front from China is expected to cause temperatures to drop by 2-5°C across northern, northeastern, central, and eastern Thailand from November 13-15, while southern Thailand faces isolated heavy rain and rough seas.

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.