Parliament President should head the Reconciliation Committee - Senator

13 Sept 17:35 Key points summarised by AI

Senator Kamnoon Sitthisamarn proposes Parliament President Chuan Leekpai to lead the reconciliation committee, citing his widespread respect and extensive political experience as key qualifications.
The committee aims to be an open forum for various stakeholders, but its effectiveness is questioned due to past non-binding recommendations, with opposition parties demanding Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha's resignation before joining.

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.