Anti-government protesters disperse after rally at Ratchaprasong

13 Sept 05:46 Key points summarised by AI

Thousands of anti-government protesters gathered at Bangkok's Ratchaprasong intersection, fueled by anger over a rejected constitutional amendment motion and police's use of force the previous day.
A significant number of demonstrators marched to the national police headquarters, splashing water and spray-painting its name plaque to denounce alleged excessive force against protesters.
Police observed the protest from within the compound, armed with batons and shields, but did not intervene as the rally unfolded.
Protesters dispersed around 8:30 pm, concluding the rally but vowing to stage another demonstration on November 25 at the Crown Property Bureau headquarters.

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.