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Former ‘Red Shirt’ guard sentenced to 6 years for lèse majesté, computer crimes

25 Sept 06:14 Key points summarised by AI

Sombat Thongyoi, a former guard for Thailand’s “Red Shirts,” has been sentenced to six years in prison without suspension for lèse majesté and computer crimes.
The conviction is based on Sombat's Facebook posts from late 2020, which the Bangkok South Criminal court ruled as mocking and defamatory towards King Maha Vajiralongkorn, specifically citing a modified royal quote and comments on the King's public greetings.

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.