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Army asked to protect Thai monarchy against Saturday’s planned protest at the Grand Palace

13 Sept 12:32 Key points summarised by AI

A royalist group, "Centre of the People for the Protection of Monarchy," petitioned the Army Chief to safeguard the monarchy from threats posed by anti-establishment elements.
This petition comes ahead of a planned protest by the Free Youth movement this Saturday, which intends to march from the Democracy Monument to the Grand Palace.
Pro-monarchy leader Dr. Warong Dechgitvigrom suggested the protest might aim to spread COVID-19 and advised royalists to delay counter-protests until a more opportune moment.
A former intelligence official, Mr. Nanthiwat Samart, questioned the Free Youth's motives, noting the protest date coincides with a historical communist rebellion and emphasizing the Grand Palace's sacred status to Thai people.

Yesterday 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.