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Pheu Thai Party insists Thai Charter Court does not ban writing of a new charter

13 Sept 09:41 Key points summarised by AI

The Pheu Thai Party challenges the parliament's legal committee's rejection of their draft charter amendment, which aimed to establish a Constitution Drafting Assembly (CDA).
Pheu Thai's chief legal advisor, Mr. Chusak Sirinil, contends the Constitutional Court's ruling does not prohibit a new charter but requires two national referendums—one for consent to draft and another for approval.
Chusak clarifies that the referendum process needs cabinet or parliamentary consent and does not automatically invalidate the current charter, instead initiating the amendment of Section 256 to form the CDA.
Pheu Thai advocates for a new constitution, asserting the current charter is the root of Thailand's political problems and is essential for genuine political and national reforms.

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.