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Former PDRC protest leader Suthep and 25 others sentenced to prison terms

14 Sept 00:48 Key points summarised by AI

Former PDRC leader Suthep Thaugsuban and 25 core members were sentenced to prison terms for their roles in the 2013-2014 protests against the Yingluck Shinawatra government.
Three serving cabinet ministers—Nataphol Teepsuwan, Buddhipongse Punnakanta, and Thaworn Senneam—were among those convicted, resulting in their immediate removal from their posts.
The defendants were found guilty of charges including incitement to rebellion, illegal assembly, and disrupting an election, though terrorism and insurrection charges were dismissed by the court.
While some defendants received bail, Suthep and the three former ministers had their bail applications referred to the Appeals Court, requiring them to spend a night in remand.

Yesterday 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham party leaders sparked rumors of a potential merger, though Bhumjaithai's leader, Anutin, downplayed it as a casual meal.
The meeting is widely interpreted as a strategic message from Bhumjaithai to the Pheu Thai party, signaling alternative support ahead of an upcoming no-confidence debate.
Thailand's Constitution (Section 99) currently prohibits direct mergers of parties with sitting MPs during the House's term, a rule designed to prevent the 'buying and selling' of MPs.
While direct mergers are restricted, MPs can still switch parties if dismissed by a three-fourths party vote or if their party dissolves, allowing for indirect political realignments.
Kla Tham's voting behavior in the censure debate will demonstrate its loyalty to the government, potentially influencing future political dynamics despite current merger restrictions.