2nd field hospital for Khlong Toey COVID-19 patients is in the works

13 Sept 10:13 Key points summarised by AI

A second field hospital is being planned to accommodate 200 COVID-19 patients from Bangkok's Khlong Toey slum, with an old Port Authority building as the primary site.
Saphan Temple is designated as a backup location, also capable of housing 200 patients, should the initial warehouse prove unsuitable due to dust and ventilation issues.
This plan follows the recent opening of a 200-bed community isolation facility in Khlong Toey, aiming to separate infected individuals from the dense community before hospital transfer.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Today 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.