Chuan hopes Democrat will rise again under new leadership

13 Sept 11:16 Key points summarised by AI

Former leader Chuan Leekpai admits the Democrat party has hit its lowest point in 77 years, expressing hope for its recovery and integrity under new leader Chalermchai Srion.
Chuan laments the departure of members, including former leader Abhisit Vejjajiva, and acknowledges lobbying tactics that influenced Chalermchai's election.
He criticizes the underperformance of the previous leadership, which included Chalermchai, and warns the new executive committee against joining the coalition government or defying party directives.
Chuan's attempts to steer the party, such as nominating Abhisit and advocating for Watanya Bunnag's leadership bid, were ultimately unsuccessful, highlighting internal challenges.

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.