Constitutional Court strips five ex-PDRC core members of parliamentary status

13 Sept 06:00 Key points summarised by AI

The Constitutional Court ruled to strip five former core members of the People’s Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) of their parliamentary status.
The affected MPs—Chumphol Julasai, Isara Somchai, Thavorn Senniam, Buddhipongse Punnakanta, and Nataphol Teepsuwan—lose their status retroactively from April 7th.
Disqualification stems from their prison sentences received in February for active involvement in the 2013-2014 PDRC protests aimed at overthrowing the then-Yingluck Shinawatra government.
The court rejected the MPs' contention that their detention was temporary, upholding that Section 98 (6) of the Constitution disqualifies those sentenced to prison.
Vacancies will be filled by new party-list members, while by-elections are mandated within 45 days for the constituency seats left by Chumphol and Thavorn.

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.