Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn: Bangkok governor candidate a bridge to Move Forward govt?

13 Sept 21:18 Key points summarised by AI

The Move Forward Party announced Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, a debutant MP and party spokesman, as its candidate for the upcoming Bangkok gubernatorial election.
Wiroj pledges a direct confrontation with corruption and bribery, claiming it drains 15 percent of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration's annual budget, promising to steer the city towards a better direction.
He aims to prioritize Bangkok residents' interests over state agencies and demonstrate how effective a Move Forward administration can be with a substantial budget.
While party leader Pita Limjaroenrat praised Wiroj's alignment with the party's ethos, some observers express that the party faced challenges in attracting a more prominent outsider due to its controversial liberal stance.

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.