Protesters move protest venue to army barracks in Bangkhen district

14 Sept 02:26 Key points summarised by AI

Anti-establishment protesters have relocated their planned rally from the First Infantry Battalion to the 11th Infantry Regiment of the Royal Guards in Bangkhen district.
The change was announced by the United Front of Thammasat and Demonstration, instructing followers to gather at Wat Phra Sri Mahatat BTS station before marching to the new venue.
Police and troops are on standby, with security measures like cargo containers and razor wire deployed, and traffic diversions in place, to manage the protest and prevent encroachment on state property.

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.