NACC to seek asset clarification from PM’s senator brother, his wife

13 Sept 10:37 Key points summarised by AI

The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) will serve a notice on Gen. Preecha Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister Prayut's senator brother, regarding alleged concealment of assets during his tenure in the National Legislative Assembly.
Gen. Preecha will be given an opportunity to present evidence to rebut the allegations before the NACC makes a final decision on any formal charges.
The NACC also found grounds to file charges against Bhumjaithai MPs Chalong Therdveerapong and Phumisit Kongmee, and former MP Natee Ratchakitprakarn, for allowing others to use their MP cards for proxy voting in parliament.
Palang Pracharat MP Ms. Thanikarn Pornpongsarote was also faulted by the NACC for a similar offense of allowing a colleague to use her MP card during a House deliberation.
Such proxy voting conduct violates Section 172 of the Anti-Corruption Act, carrying potential penalties of 1 to 20 years imprisonment and a fine up to 200,000 baht if found guilty.

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.