Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning
Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Thai Health Ministry wants to turn Hua Mark indoor stadium into a COVID-19 triage centre
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Thai Health Ministry wants to turn Hua Mark indoor stadium into a COVID-19 triage centre
13 Sept 05:23Key points summarised by AI
Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul called an urgent meeting to address the severe shortage of hospital beds in Bangkok amidst a surge in COVID-19 cases.
The ministry plans to convert the Hua Mark indoor stadium into a COVID-19 triage centre for patient reception and screening before hospital admission or isolation.
This initiative follows Thailand's recording of 2,438 new COVID-19 cases, including 1,078 in Bangkok, and 11 fatalities on Sunday.
Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Today 16:46Key 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.