Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning
Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Growers get ready: confusion over cannabis legalisation is about to clear
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Growers get ready: confusion over cannabis legalisation is about to clear
13 Sept 11:38Key points summarised by AI
Despite cannabis decriminalization, legal confusion persists in Thailand due to unamended secondary laws and conflicting enforcement, leading to continued arrests and caution from Deputy PM Wissanu.
The Public Health Ministry is advancing a draft announcement that will legalize all cannabis parts except those containing over 0.2% Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), aiming to clarify its legal status.
If approved, the new rules will make personal possession and non-industrial cultivation of low-THC cannabis legal, while industrial operations and high-THC parts will remain strictly controlled under new regulations and international conventions.
Beyond personal use, complete legalization is expected to significantly boost Thailand's economy, driving rapid growth in medical, food, beverage, and drug industries utilizing cannabis.
Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Today 16:46Key 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.