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Court postpones reading of verdict in tax evasion case against ex-finance officials

14 Sept 13:37 Key points summarised by AI

The Supreme Court's verdict in a tax evasion case against former deputy finance minister Benja Louicharoen, three ex-finance officials, and an aide to Khunying Potjamarn na Prompetch was postponed.
The defendants were previously found guilty of malfeasance for allegedly helping Thaksin Shinawatra's children evade 7.9 billion baht in capital gains tax from the 2006 Shin Corp sale; the postponement was due to one defendant's illness, rescheduling the verdict reading to December 26th.

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.