Sakoltee Phattiyakul: From PDRC whistle-blower to next Bangkok governor?

13 Sept 08:14 Key points summarised by AI

Sakoltee Phattiyakul, a former deputy Bangkok governor and key PDRC protest leader, announced his candidacy for the May 22 Bangkok gubernatorial election, positioning himself as an independent candidate despite expected unofficial backing from the ruling Palang Pracharath Party.
His campaign pledges to address six critical urban areas: traffic, security, environment, healthcare, public engineering, and social development, aiming to enhance the quality of life in Bangkok.
Sakoltee's political past includes a prominent role in the 2013-2014 PDRC protests that preceded the 2014 military coup, and he maintains strong connections to the junta and ruling party through his well-connected father.
The upcoming election, the first city election since 2013 and coinciding with the 2014 coup anniversary, features a competitive field of candidates vying for Bangkok's top seat.

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.