Protesters break through police barriers to reach parliament gate

13 Sept 12:27 Key points summarised by AI

Thousands of anti-government protesters successfully breached police barriers to rally at the parliament gate, demanding action on constitutional amendment bills.
Police employed high-pressure water jets, initially plain then laced with tear gas components, and tear gas to repel the demonstrators, leading to at least 9 reported injuries.
The ongoing parliamentary debate on constitutional amendments was significantly impacted, with some MPs advocating against police violence and numerous officials evacuating the premises.
A royalist counter-protest also occurred, resulting in brief clashes with the anti-government group before a temporary truce was established between them.

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.