Barbecue dinner in front of parliament planned for tomorrow

17 Sept 13:00 Key points summarised by AI

Anti-establishment groups, including Khana Ratsadon and Free Youth, plan a barbecue dinner and protest outside parliament to pressure lawmakers into approving the iLaw constitutional amendment draft.
The iLaw draft faces strong opposition from pro-Monarchy groups, who allege foreign funding and warn it could lead to changes in the Monarchy's status, planning their own counter-rally earlier in the day.
Parliament is scheduled to vote on several constitutional amendment drafts, with the iLaw proposal sparking significant debate and likely rejection from some senators and government MPs.
Authorities are preparing to manage the two opposing groups, ensuring public safety amidst the planned demonstrations and parliamentary proceedings.

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.