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Former PCD chief and two officials to pay 10.5 billion baht in infamous Klong Dan case

15 Sept 01:12 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Central Administrative Court ordered former Pollution Control Department (PCD) Director-General Pakit Kiravanich and two senior officials to pay 10.5 billion baht in compensation for damages related to the controversial Klong Dan water treatment project.
Pakit is liable for 4.5 billion baht, while former Director Siritan Pairoteboriboon and former Deputy Director-General Yuwaree Inna are each ordered to pay 3 billion baht, with the right to appeal within 30 days.
The 23 billion baht Klong Dan water treatment project is a notorious corruption case, causing an estimated 30 billion baht in state damage, and remains 90% complete but unused.
The scandal involved significant fraud in land acquisition and the construction contract, leading to previous convictions for 11 executives and officials, including a 10-year sentence for former Deputy Interior Minister Wattana Asavahame in absentia.

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.