Ratsadon protesters peaceful as they denounce the Thai government

23 Sept 06:31 Key points summarised by AI

Followers of the anti-establishment Ratsadon group peacefully gathered outside parliament to denounce the Thai government, despite a heavy police presence and water cannon trucks.
Protesters utilized a six-wheel truck as a makeshift stage, displaying images of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and his ministers, while opposition Kao Klai MPs were seen mingling with the crowd.
Core leader Panasaya Sitthijirawattanakul blasted the government and military dictatorship, concluding the event with a concert and urging followers to return the next day to demand the release of four detained core leaders.

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.