Little hope for reform of Thailand’s police - Senator Kamnoon

13 Sept 14:50 Key points summarised by AI

Senator Kamnoon Sidhisamarn blames Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha for the stalled progress in reforming the Royal Thai Police.
Kamnoon asserts that PM Prayut's 2018 orders, which prioritize seniority in police reshuffles, have effectively nullified constitutional provisions for merit-based promotions and transfers.
The government bypassed a police reform draft by legal expert Meechai Ruchupan, instead approving a heavily amended version from the Royal Police Office.
According to Senator Kamnoon, this modified draft offers no hope for genuine police reform, rendering the relevant constitutional provisions meaningless.

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.