Thai activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana to quit Palang Pracharat party

13 Sept 10:46 Key points summarised by AI

Maverick activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana announced his departure from Thailand's ruling Palang Pracharat party, effective Monday.
He stated the move grants him greater autonomy to scrutinize the performance of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, other ministers, and government officials.
Ruangkrai plans to independently address the contentious issue of the Prime Minister's term limit, a debate over whether his tenure concludes this August.
He rejected an unnamed request to delay raising the PM's term limit, viewing it as an attempt at manipulation, and asserted his capacity to scrutinize the government more effectively than the opposition.

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.