Thai civil society to launch signature campaign for a People’s Constitution

14 Sept 01:10 Key points summarised by AI

Thai civil society groups, including iLaw, launched a signature campaign to advocate for a "People's Constitution."
The campaign aims to gather at least 50,000 public signatures to support the demand for drafting a new charter.
Deputy PM Wissanu Krea-ngarm outlined two official methods for amending the existing Constitution, both potentially requiring a Constitution Drafting Assembly (CDA) and public referenda.
A significant hurdle for constitutional amendments is the current absence of a specific law governing such referenda, which would first need to be enacted.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

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.