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Former PM Yingluck says junta has failed Thais on 7th anniversary of coup

21 Sept 07:11 Key points summarised by AI

Former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra expressed profound disappointment, stating the Thai people have been failed by the junta-led government seven years after the 2014 military coup.
She accused the government of failing to fulfill promises made to justify the coup and criticized the current constitution as a tool to ensure the junta's continued power, ignoring public calls for amendment.
Yingluck highlighted the past seven years as a period of "lost development opportunity" and ignored public voices, particularly regarding the elusive promise of a People's Constitution.
She condemned the Prayut government for its perceived lack of empathy, mismanagement of the economy, and inadequate handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Yingluck questioned whether the junta's initial promise of "Returning Happiness to the People" was merely a pretext to oust her administration.

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.