Twenty candidates register for Bangkok gubernatorial election on first day

13 Sept 11:08 Key points summarised by AI

Twenty candidates registered for the Bangkok gubernatorial election on its first day, with officials predicting a total of no more than 25 candidates.
Concurrently, 343 individuals applied to contest city councillor elections across Bangkok's 50 districts.
The candidacy registration period concludes on April 4th, followed by a seven-day qualification check before the May 22nd election.
Gubernatorial candidates face a campaign spending limit of 49 million baht, while councillor limits vary by district size.
All candidates must submit spending reports within 90 days post-election to avoid penalties, and strict rules govern campaign poster placement, prohibiting them in specific public areas.

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.