Thai PM apologises as many vaccination appointments postponed

13 Sept 08:01 Key points summarised by AI

Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha apologized for widespread vaccination appointment postponements, attributing them to insufficient dose allocation across the country.
The Prime Minister pledged to resolve the issues, compensate affected individuals, and ensure equitable vaccine distribution to all provinces based on factors like population, age, and infection rates.
Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul denied any ministry-level postponements, stating that hospitals are responsible for managing their weekly dose allocations.
Despite the challenges, Thailand launched a mass inoculation campaign, administering over 400,000 doses yesterday and reaching over 4.6 million total doses to date.

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.