Will 3 decades of Hopewell horror show have a shock happy ending for Thailand?

13 Sept 12:19 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Supreme Administrative Court ordered a retrial of the decades-long Hopewell mass-transit project dispute, potentially saving the government an estimated Bt30 billion in compensation.
The retrial was prompted by a Constitutional Court ruling that invalidated a 2002 resolution on the statute of limitations, which formed the basis of Hopewell's prior legal victory.
This new development allows authorities to argue that Hopewell filed its compensation claim beyond the legal deadline, offering a critical chance to overturn the previous order.
The government is also pursuing a civil lawsuit to challenge Hopewell's business registration, aiming to declare the original concession contract void due to alleged unlawful foreign ownership.

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.