Impeachment vote set for Wednesday as Trump rages

23 Sept 02:33 Key points summarised by AI

The House of Representatives is scheduled to vote on Wednesday to impeach President Donald Trump, potentially making him the third US leader to face a Senate trial.
President Trump vehemently denounced the impeachment efforts as an “attempted coup” and a “witch trial,” expressing his fury in a six-page letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
The two articles of impeachment accuse Trump of abusing power by pressuring Ukraine for a probe into a political rival and obstructing Congress by refusing to cooperate with the investigation.
While the Democratic-led House is expected to pass the articles, sending the case to the Senate, a Republican-controlled Senate is anticipated to acquit Trump in a trial likely to begin in January.
Democrats remain largely united in their support for impeachment, while top Republicans have dismissed the process as purely political, with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell rejecting calls for White House official witnesses.

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.