Thaksin’s new royal pardon bid sparks fresh debate

14 Sept 09:40 Key points summarised by AI

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has initiated a new appeal for a Royal pardon, despite having previously received a commutation that reduced his eight-year corruption sentence to one year.
The Justice Ministry has processed and forwarded his latest appeal, upholding every prisoner's right to seek a pardon, even amidst ongoing debate regarding his eligibility for a second one.
This new bid comes after a recent Supreme Court ruling on September 9, which determined Thaksin did not suffer from life-threatening illnesses to justify his hospital stay, concluding that his one-year sentence has not yet been officially enforced.

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.