Democrats defend Bangkok gubernatorial candidate as House panel probes his wealth

13 Sept 16:12 Key points summarised by AI

Democrats are defending their Bangkok gubernatorial candidate, Suchatvee Suwansawat, as a House committee plans to question him about his wealth.
Former MP Thepthai Senpong criticized the House committee's probe, deeming it suspicious and potentially unfair, suggesting an independent agency like the NACC is more appropriate.
Suchatvee has publicly declared his readiness for scrutiny, with the party highlighting his past transparency regarding his financial sources.
The upcoming Bangkok governor race, the first in nine years, is expected to be fiercely contested.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Yesterday 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul and Kla Tham leader Capt. Thamanat Prompow ignited widespread speculation about a potential merger between their parties.
The meeting is viewed as a strategic message to coalition partner Pheu Thai, indicating Bhumjaithai's alternative options following Pheu Thai's chief whip's remarks about not fully defending all ministers in the upcoming no-confidence debate.
A direct merger between parties with sitting MPs is currently prohibited by Section 99 of the Constitution until the House's term expires, though MPs can switch parties through dismissal or party dissolution.
These constitutional rules aim to prevent financially strong parties from easily absorbing smaller ones, a practice that historically led to single-party dominance, as seen with Thai Rak Thai's 2005 election victory.