Suchada: Meet the reluctant star of Thailand’s cryptic crypto drama
Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Protests in parliament as Seripisut raises PM’s incomplete oath recital
AI In-Brief
Thailand News in Brief
Thai PBS World
Thailand and the world, every day
AI can make mistakes. Please double-check.
Protests in parliament as Seripisut raises PM’s incomplete oath recital
13 Sept 14:51Key points summarised by AI
During a censure debate, Seri Ruam Thai party leader Pol Gen Seripisut Temiyavet attempted to discuss Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha’s incomplete oath recital, sparking immediate protests from coalition MPs.
Government MPs argued the issue was irrelevant and previously resolved by the Constitutional Court, leading to heated exchanges and interruptions from both sides.
Despite initial approval to proceed, the Deputy House Speaker eventually prohibited Seripisut from continuing on the oath issue and ordered him to leave the chamber, which he grudgingly did.
Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Yesterday 16:46Key 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.