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Thai government defends lèse majesté law against criticism from the UNHCR

18 Sept 04:24 Key points summarised by AI

The Thai government defends its lèse majesté law (Section 112), claiming it protects the monarchy's reputation without restricting citizens' rights, aligning with similar laws globally.
Government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri justified charging a 16-year-old student under the law, noting the Juvenile Court granted the youth bail against police wishes.
The UNHCR voiced deep concern over the invocation of Section 112 against at least 35 anti-establishment protesters, including the minor, urging Thailand to cease using severe criminal charges for peaceful assembly.
The UN body specifically called for the Thai government to amend the lèse majesté law to align with international standards on freedom of expression.
Thai authorities maintain they support free expression that is creative and non-aggressive, provided it does not infringe on others' rights or threaten public order and national security.

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.