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Govt facing onslaught over COVID policy as parliamentary battle commences

13 Sept 07:06 Key points summarised by AI

The new parliamentary session will intensely scrutinize the government's COVID-19 response, focusing on a new Bt500 billion borrowing bill and the Bt3.1-trillion budget for 2022.
Opposition parties plan to censure the government over its handling of the pandemic, economic recovery, and controversial budget allocations, advocating for funds to be diverted from defense to public health.
Beyond COVID-19, key legislative debates include charter amendment drafts, particularly targeting the Senate's power to elect the premier, and a bill for a national referendum on constitutional changes.
Despite a parliamentary majority, the government faces mounting questions regarding the transparency of new loans, its COVID-19 measures, and vaccine choices, potentially challenging its legitimacy and survival.

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.