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Army chief confirms Thanathorn registered for conscription but was not enlisted

13 Sept 22:57 Key points summarised by AI

Army Commander-in-Chief Gen. Apirat Kongsompong confirmed Future Forward party leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit registered for conscription but was not enlisted, debunking social media claims of fake documents.
Thanathorn stated he drew a lot freeing him from enlistment and accused senior military figures of benefiting from the conscription system, receiving a Sor Dor 43 document as a reservist.

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.