Drag queen group adds colour to anti-government protests

14 Sept 14:15 Key points summarised by AI

A 'Drag Queen' group joined anti-government protests in Thailand, drawing attention with distinctive black and white costumes symbolizing non-violence, peace, and modesty.
The group shares the protesters' demands for Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha's resignation, Parliament dissolution, and monarchy reform, while also representing the LGBTQ+ community's fight for freedom and non-violence.

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.