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Thai Supreme Court to investigate Toyota bribery scandal allegedly implicating former senior judges

14 Sept 02:08 Key points summarised by AI

The Thai Supreme Court President established a 4-member fact-finding panel to investigate a Toyota Motors Thailand (TMT) bribery scandal.
The scandal involves import duties on Toyota Prius hybrid cars and allegedly implicates three former senior judges, as reported by Law360.
The Thai judiciary vows a swift and thorough investigation, promising decisive action against anyone found involved.
Former judges implicated by Law360 have filed libel complaints against the website, while the Office of Judicial Affairs seeks information from US authorities.
The core of the case involves TMT's dispute with the Customs Department over Prius import duties, which is currently pending before the Supreme Court.

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.