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Thai army chief says that there is no vaccine to cure the disease of hate

14 Sept 00:18 Key points summarised by AI

Army Chief General Apirat Kongsompong declared "hating our own country" an incurable disease, contrasting it with curable COVID-19, and implicitly linked it to anti-government critics.
He asserted that no vaccine exists for this "disease of hate," proposing that instilling a sense of unity and patriotism in young Thais is the only remedy.
General Apirat also confirmed that US troops arriving for joint exercises strictly adhered to Thailand's COVID-19 measures, including multiple tests and quarantine, with exercises being postponed or downsized.

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.