OAG Intervention sought in new bid to get bail for monarchy reform activist

14 Sept 19:31 Key points summarised by AI

Thai Lawyers for Human Rights (TLHR) have sought intervention from the Office of the Attorney-General (OAG) to secure bail for monarchy reform activist Tantawan Tuatulanon.
Tantawan faces charges including royal defamation for an opinion poll and live broadcast concerning royal motorcades and has been on a hunger strike since April 20th in protest of her detention.
Her lawyer submitted a petition requesting the OAG instruct police to question three defence witnesses and challenged the legitimacy of her pre-trial detention.
Human Rights Watch has called for the immediate dropping of charges against Tantawan and her transfer to a hospital for urgent medical care.
Despite the OAG promising to forward the petition, the court retains the final authority on granting bail, having recently rejected a separate bail request.

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.