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Progressive Movement hits back at Thaksin over lèse majesté law claim

14 Sept 17:39 Key points summarised by AI

Progressive Movement leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit rejected former PM Thaksin Shinawatra's assertion that the Move Forward party's exclusion from the coalition stemmed from its refusal to soften its stance on the lèse majesté law (Section 112).
Thaksin had publicly claimed he advised Thanathorn against pushing for monarchy reform, stating the Thai people respect the institution and the law would remain intact.
Thanathorn clarified that he never discussed the lèse majesté law with Thaksin, nor was it a condition for joining the coalition government, dismissing Thaksin's claim as misleading.
He attributed Move Forward's decision to other undisclosed reasons, hinting at broader 'structural problems' in Thailand, including the monarchy, and implied Thaksin chose to be part of these issues rather than solving them.

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.