Thai hosts guarantee safety for Cambodian team during SEA Games

13 Sept 13:53 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand pledges maximum safety for the Cambodian contingent at the upcoming 33rd SEA Games, addressing Cambodia's concerns amidst ongoing border tensions.
Cambodia's request to house its 300-member delegation together in the same hotels across host cities has been granted, with dedicated officials assigned to ensure their security throughout their stay.
Discussions are underway to increase financial incentives for Thai medal-winning athletes, with a proposal expected to be finalized by November 20.
Overdue training allowances for Thai athletes since August will be expedited, with relevant authorities working to speed up disbursement through November.

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.