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Former Kao Klai candidate fired over incident at Friday protest in Samut Prakan

13 Sept 10:44 Key points summarised by AI

A former Kao Klai Party candidate, Thawatchawin Kopatta, publicly apologized for an incident at a Samut Prakan protest where two men attempted to seize a student activist's microphone.
Thawatchawin admitted he brought the men to the rally to prevent any discussion about the Thai Monarchy, fulfilling a promise made to the local police superintendent.
He clarified that the men misunderstood the activist's speech regarding the budget of the Office of the Royal Household as a direct reference to the Monarchy, leading to their intervention.
Despite Thawatchawin's apology for the misunderstanding, Kao Klai MP Wutthinan Boonchu promptly fired him from his team of advisors with immediate effect.

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.