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Thailand’s Constitutional Court to be petitioned over constitutionality of charter amendments

13 Sept 14:04 Key points summarised by AI

Smaller Thai political parties are set to petition the Constitutional Court, challenging the constitutionality of recently passed charter amendments.
They argue the draft is flawed due to the late inclusion of Section 86, intended to replace the mixed-member apportionment electoral system with a two-ballot system.
The group alleges the amendment process was opaque and designed to benefit larger parties while disadvantaging smaller and mid-sized parties.
Petitioners urge Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to withhold Royal endorsement of the amendments until the Constitutional Court delivers its ruling.

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.