First referendum on new constitution expected in Q1 of next year

9 Oct 11:53 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand anticipates its first referendum on a new constitution in Q1 next year, following the formation of a 35-member ad hoc panel tasked with studying amendment processes.
This panel, comprising diverse stakeholders, will decide the scope of constitutional changes (excluding Chapters 1 and 2 on territorial integrity, democracy, and monarchy) and the number of referenda needed, aiming to minimize costs.

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.