Protesters start gathering at Democracy Monument

14 Sept 07:41 Key points summarised by AI

Protesters, primarily from upcountry, are converging at Bangkok's Democracy Monument to demand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-op-cha's resignation, a new Constitution, and monarchy reform.
The protest's start time was moved forward to 8 am following the arrest of 21 activists, including a key leader, as police cleared roads for a Royal motorcade.
The gathering will also feature a ceremony commemorating the "October 14th" fallen heroes, with a focus on human rights issues.
Several pro-Monarchy groups, led by figures like ex-monk Buddha Issara and Suthep Thaugsuban, are scheduled to hold counter-rallies in nearby areas.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Yesterday 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul and Kla Tham leader Capt. Thamanat Prompow ignited widespread speculation about a potential merger between their parties.
The meeting is viewed as a strategic message to coalition partner Pheu Thai, indicating Bhumjaithai's alternative options following Pheu Thai's chief whip's remarks about not fully defending all ministers in the upcoming no-confidence debate.
A direct merger between parties with sitting MPs is currently prohibited by Section 99 of the Constitution until the House's term expires, though MPs can switch parties through dismissal or party dissolution.
These constitutional rules aim to prevent financially strong parties from easily absorbing smaller ones, a practice that historically led to single-party dominance, as seen with Thai Rak Thai's 2005 election victory.