Thanathorn throws down gauntlet over budget for Royal Office

14 Sept 11:32 Key points summarised by AI

Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, serving as an advisor to the House budget committee, controversially questioned the proposed 2021 budget increase for agencies under the Royal Office.
He highlighted an "alarming" 16.8% budget jump for the Royal Office to 8.9 billion baht, significantly outpacing the national budget's 3.1% increase amidst severe economic hardship.
Thanathorn argued that such a sharp increase could diminish the monarchy's honor and recommended limiting its growth to align with the overall national budget's rate.
Despite his strong objections and recommendations for a reduction, the House committee ultimately endorsed the Royal Office budget without any modifications.

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.