Doctors urge end to use of chemical-laced water against unarmed, peaceful protesters

13 Sept 11:37 Key points summarised by AI

A coalition of 386 Thai doctors issued a joint statement condemning the government's use of irritant-laced water and tear gas against peaceful, unarmed protesters, labeling it an act of violence.
They specifically protested the police's use of chemical water cannons at Pathumwan intersection and attempts to block ambulance access to injured protesters, emphasizing that hospitals must remain neutral, accessible, and treat all patients equally.
The doctors urged the government to be more open to public views to prevent future protest violence and ensure de-escalation.
Separately, the Pathumwan District Court issued arrest warrants for five core anti-government protest members for alleged emergency decree violations, with some leaders subsequently detained.

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.