Party politics rocked by year of splits and a dissolution

21 Sept 07:09 Key points summarised by AI

The year 2020 began with the Constitutional Court dissolving the popular Future Forward Party over a campaign loan from its leader, Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, who was subsequently banned from politics; its MPs formed Move Forward, and banned executives launched the Progressive Movement.
The dissolution of Future Forward ignited widespread student-led protests across Thailand, initially decrying political motivation but later expanding demands to include constitutional reform, the removal of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, and monarchy reform.
The ruling Palang Pracharath party consolidated its power by electing General Prawit Wongsuwon as its new leader, reinforcing military influence and enhancing the stability of the Prayut government.
The largest opposition party, Pheu Thai, experienced significant internal upheaval, with factions breaking away and key figures like Sudarat Keyuraphan resigning to potentially form a new party, further fracturing the opposition.

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.