Thai PM to get tough with protesters who break the law

20 Sept 10:16 Key points summarised by AI

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha announced a strict enforcement of all existing laws against anti-establishment protesters who engage in unlawful activities.
This decision follows two consecutive days of escalating protests where demonstrators clashed with police, vandalized property, and expressed anger over the rejection of a constitutional amendment.
The government stated that peaceful means have failed, and the escalating situation poses threats to national stability, the Monarchy, and public safety, necessitating stringent legal action.
Legal experts suggest that the invocation of "every section of the law" could potentially include Section 112 (lèse majesté law) against individuals offending the Monarchy.

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.