Police battle protesters as Parliament debates charter bills

13 Sept 06:23 Key points summarised by AI

Police clashed violently with anti-government protesters outside Parliament during debates on constitutional amendments, resulting in at least 9 injuries.
Authorities deployed high-pressure water cannons (initially plain, then tear gas-laced), tear gas, and threatened rubber bullets as protesters ignored warnings and breached a restricted zone.
Brief scuffles erupted between pro-democracy and royalist groups, though they later reached a truce amidst the larger confrontation with police.
The escalating conflict outside forced parliamentarians to shift their debate, with some MPs urging police restraint and others evacuating for safety as the stand-off continued.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Yesterday 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham party leaders sparked rumors of a potential merger, though Bhumjaithai's leader, Anutin, downplayed it as a casual meal.
The meeting is widely interpreted as a strategic message from Bhumjaithai to the Pheu Thai party, signaling alternative support ahead of an upcoming no-confidence debate.
Thailand's Constitution (Section 99) currently prohibits direct mergers of parties with sitting MPs during the House's term, a rule designed to prevent the 'buying and selling' of MPs.
While direct mergers are restricted, MPs can still switch parties if dismissed by a three-fourths party vote or if their party dissolves, allowing for indirect political realignments.
Kla Tham's voting behavior in the censure debate will demonstrate its loyalty to the government, potentially influencing future political dynamics despite current merger restrictions.