The Appeal Court found Suthep not guilty of corruption

27 Sept 09:14 Key points summarised by AI

The appeals panel of the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Political Office Holders acquitted former deputy prime minister Suthep Thaugsuban and five co-defendants of corruption charges.
The ruling upheld an earlier Supreme Court decision, stemming from accusations by the NACC regarding alleged malfeasance in changing construction contracts for 396 police stations and apartments during the 2009-2013 Democrat-led administration.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Yesterday 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul and Kla Tham leader Capt. Thamanat Prompow ignited widespread speculation about a potential merger between their parties.
The meeting is viewed as a strategic message to coalition partner Pheu Thai, indicating Bhumjaithai's alternative options following Pheu Thai's chief whip's remarks about not fully defending all ministers in the upcoming no-confidence debate.
A direct merger between parties with sitting MPs is currently prohibited by Section 99 of the Constitution until the House's term expires, though MPs can switch parties through dismissal or party dissolution.
These constitutional rules aim to prevent financially strong parties from easily absorbing smaller ones, a practice that historically led to single-party dominance, as seen with Thai Rak Thai's 2005 election victory.