Ratsadon protesters disperse, but plan to gather again on February 20th

13 Sept 12:41 Key points summarised by AI

Ratsadon protesters dispersed after clashing with police, vowing to return on February 20th if their four detained leaders are not released.
The demonstration began at Democracy Monument, where activists wrapped it in red cloth, demanding the abolition of the lèse majesté law.
Protesters marched to the City Pillar Shrine but were blocked by anti-riot police, leading to a scuffle with smoke bombs and firecrackers thrown.
Four key leaders—Parit Chiwarak, Anon Nampa, Somyos Prueksakasemsook, and Patiwat Saraiyaem—remain in remand on multiple charges, including lèse majesté.

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.