Protesters end rally at SCB after fierce assault on monarchy

13 Sept 11:08 Key points summarised by AI

Anti-government protesters concluded their rally at Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) headquarters, intensely criticizing the monarchy's assets and demanding reform.
Protesters called for transparency in royal asset management and reiterated demands for monarchy reform and Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha's resignation.
The rally venue was strategically moved to SCB from the Crown Property Bureau, as SCB is the Bureau's largest shareholder, and to avoid confrontation with royalist groups.
Key protest leader Parit Chiwarak specifically targeted the 2018 Royal Assets Structuring Act, which consolidated the King's personal assets and the crown's wealth.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Today 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.