All eyes on court as Thai charter-change battle approaches D-Day

10 Sept 19:50 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand faces a critical constitutional battle as lawmakers push to amend the junta-sponsored charter, which is widely condemned but difficult to change.
The amendment process was stalled when Parliament voted to seek a Constitutional Court ruling on whether a full charter rewrite, even by an elected Constitution Drafting Assembly (CDA), is permissible without a new national referendum.
Proponents of the court review argue the current charter, endorsed by a national referendum, cannot be rewritten without another public vote, while opponents contend it's not a new charter if core chapters (monarchy, general provisions) remain untouched.
The Constitutional Court's decision, expected in about 30 days, will significantly impact Thailand's political future, potentially allowing the amendment process to proceed or voiding the drafts, leading to further delays and constitutional instability.

Six injured after car smashes into On Nut shopping mall

Yesterday 22:44 Key points summarised by AI

A 67-year-old woman drove her car through the glass frontage of a Bangkok shopping mall, injuring six people, including a six-year-old girl.
The driver claimed she accidentally pressed the accelerator instead of the brake after being startled, causing the vehicle to surge forward.
She apologized to the victims, promising insurance coverage and additional financial aid, while police continue to gather statements before filing charges.