PM to lead his ministers in oath-taking ceremony at the Royal palace on Tuesday

15 Sept 22:04 Key points summarised by AI

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and his 34 cabinet ministers will take their oath of allegiance before His Majesty the King at the Royal Palace on Tuesday, following the official announcement of the new government line-up.
The Cabinet's immediate agenda includes a photo shoot and the oath-taking ceremony, followed by the PM delivering the government's policy statement to parliament on Friday and an upcoming trip to the UN General Assembly in mid-September.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Yesterday 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.