Sudarat quits as Pheu Thai Party’s strategic chief

14 Sept 07:43 Key points summarised by AI

Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan resigned as the Pheu Thai Party’s chief of strategy, confirming she remains a member and will continue to advocate for constitutional amendments.
Her departure, along with anticipated resignations from other key members, follows internal dissatisfaction with the party's executive committee, despite intervention from former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

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.