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Thai PM dismisses coup rumour as a ploy by protesters to mobilize support

13 Sept 09:55 Key points summarised by AI

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha dismissed coup rumors as a ploy by anti-establishment protesters to mobilize support for their upcoming rally, emphasizing his sole authority to declare such actions.
The PM maintained impartiality towards protests but expressed significant concern about potential violence and clashes between opposing groups, urging all parties to comply with the law.
Deputy PM Prawit Wongsuwan instructed police to strictly enforce laws and prevent protesters from approaching within 150 meters of the Crown Property Bureau, a warning echoed by the Metropolitan Police Bureau.

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.