'CODA' wins best picture in a streaming first at the Oscars

22 Sept 10:14 Key points summarised by AI

"CODA" made history by winning Best Picture, marking the first time a film from a streaming service (Apple TV+) received the film industry's top honor.
The ceremony was disrupted when Will Smith slapped presenter Chris Rock onstage over a joke, shortly before Smith accepted the Best Actor award for his role in "King Richard."
Jessica Chastain secured Best Actress for "The Eyes of Tammy Faye," and Jane Campion became the third woman in Oscars history to win Best Director for "Power of the Dog."
Troy Kotsur broke barriers as the first deaf man to win an Oscar, earning Best Supporting Actor for his role in "CODA," while Ariana DeBose won Best Supporting Actress for "West Side Story."

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.