Pita most preferred politician to become Thai PM in NIDA poll

22 Sept 21:06 Key points summarised by AI

Former Move Forward party leader Pita Limjaroenrat emerged as the most favored politician for Thai Prime Minister, securing 39.40% of votes in a recent NIDA poll.
His former party, Move Forward, also led as the most popular political party, garnering 44.05% support from respondents.
Pita's appeal is attributed to his perceived leadership qualities, vision, approachable personality, and his representation of the new generation.
The National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) conducted the poll via telephone interviews with 2,000 individuals from December 13th to 18th.

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.