Bedridden man who had been hit by a rubber bullet fired by Thai police dies

13 Sept 09:46 Key points summarised by AI

Elderly Thai man, Mana Hongthong, died after being bedridden for months due to a rubber bullet injury sustained during an anti-government protest in Bangkok in August 2021.
Mana, an innocent bystander unconnected to the protest, suffered severe head injuries from a rubber bullet believed to be fired by crowd control police.
His death marks the second fatality linked to crowd control police during anti-establishment protests last year, following the earlier death of 15-year-old Warith Somnoi.

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.