Thai PM says he will respect ruling of Constitutional Court, whatever the outcome

27 Sept 05:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thai PM Prayut Chan-o-cha pledges to accept the Constitutional Court's upcoming verdict on his alleged illegal overstay at an army residence, which could lead to his removal.
The court case, initiated by the opposition, accuses him of a conflict of interest for residing at the official army commander's home post-retirement without paying rent.
Prayut expresses minimal concern about the ruling, stating that a decision against him would simplify his future choices, and dismisses speculation about a 'haunted' prime minister's residence.
He clarified his recent 'get tough' remark, emphasizing that it refers to strict law enforcement to ensure public safety and property, not to unfairly suppress free expression.
The PM also criticized media bias, claiming disproportionate coverage for protesters while providing insufficient attention to royal activities.

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.