Thai House Speaker complains of too much game playing in parliament

15 Sept 00:05 Key points summarised by AI

House Speaker Chuan Leekpai criticizes opposition MPs for frequently disrupting meetings by causing a lack of quorum, which he believes tarnishes parliament's image.
He notes that MPs often leave sessions or refuse to declare their presence, particularly in the evenings, leading to abrupt suspensions.
Chuan stresses that both government and opposition MPs share the responsibility for attending meetings, with the government expected to lead in ensuring a quorum.
To address scheduling conflicts, he suggests extending Wednesday and Thursday meetings by several hours instead of holding sessions on Fridays, acknowledging MPs' need to visit constituents while emphasizing their duty to debate and pass laws.
The Speaker plans to discuss these issues with the Pheu Thai party leader once his appointment as opposition leader is formalized.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

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.