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Unofficial results show Democrat party winning in two southern by-elections

23 Sept 04:26 Key points summarised by AI

The Democrat party secured victories in by-elections for Songkhla and Chumphon provinces, overcoming a strong challenge from its coalition partner, the Palang Pracharat party.
Democrat candidates Issarapong Makampai won Chumphon's Constituency 1 with 48,981 votes, and Suphaporn Kamnerdphol took Songkhla's Constituency 6 with 45,576 votes.
This outcome reaffirms the Democrat party's traditional political stronghold in Thailand's southern region, despite recent electoral challenges.
Palang Pracharat's defeat is attributed to factors such as the perceived unpopularity of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and internal party dynamics during the campaign.

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.