Pope Francis to reunite with cousin on visit to Thailand

13 Sept 11:37 Key points summarised by AI

Pope Francis is scheduled to reunite with his 77-year-old cousin, Sister Ana Rosa Sivori, during his upcoming visit to Thailand from November 20-23.
Sister Sivori, a Catholic nun, has lived and worked in Thailand for over 50 years and will accompany the Pope throughout his trip.
The cousins, who grew up together in Argentina, share a close bond, referring to each other by their first names and maintaining contact through visits and letters.
During his visit to the Buddhist-majority country, Pope Francis is set to meet with King Maha Vajiralongkorn, the supreme Buddhist patriarch, and Catholic leaders.

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.