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Digital ministry pushes internet providers to block anti-monarchy accounts

13 Sept 11:42 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry has ordered internet providers to block eight Facebook accounts, groups, and fan pages critical of the Thai monarchy.
The directive targets prominent critics such as Pavin Chachavalpongpun and Andrew MacGregor Marshall, along with the 'Royalist Market Place' group.
The ministry mandates that these blocking actions be completed within 24 hours and warns that any new or related accounts featuring similar content will also face a ban.
A working committee has been established to pressure platforms like Facebook and Twitter to remove content violating Thai laws, with the DES Minister emphasizing full prosecution for violators.

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.