Thai opposition claims victory as voters reject army-backed parties

Thailand’s Move Forward Party (MFP) emerged victorious in the election, displacing military-backed parties. MFP’s leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, plans to form a coalition government with the Pheu Thai movement. However, challenges loom as the MFP seeks to reform lese-majeste laws, potentially clashing with the royalist-military establishment.

Thais vote overwhelmingly for democracy parties, reject military

Thai voters rejected nearly a decade of military-aligned rule, backing pro-democracy parties in the election. The Move Forward Party (MFP), fueled by the energy of youth-led protests, secured the most votes. Led by charismatic Pita Limjaroenrat, the MFP aims to reform royal insult laws, potentially challenging the royalist-military elite. However, concerns remain that the election result could be thwarted, given Thailand’s history of coups and court interference.

Thais reject army-backed government, opposition to open coalition talks

Thai voters have shown a clear rejection of military-backed rule, supporting pro-democracy opposition parties in the election. The progressive Move Forward Party (MFP), aiming to reform strict royal insult laws, is set to be the largest party, potentially clashing with the royalist-military elite. However, concerns of interference and instability persist, as the final seat allocation is yet to be confirmed, and the junta-scripted constitution favors the military. The election reflects the influence of youth-led protests in 2020 demanding change and questioning the monarchy, with MFP gaining significant support.

Pita Limjaroenrat: leading Thailand’s political earthquake

Thai opposition leader Pita Limjaroenrat defied expectations as his Move Forward Party took the lead in the popular vote, challenging a decade of military-backed rule. The 42-year-old, known for his dynamic presence and promise of political reform, aims to rewrite Thai history and bring about change after years of discontent. However, he faces the challenge of forming a coalition to secure the prime minister position.

Hill tribes, Spider-Man and elephants: Thailand votes

Millions of Thai voters from diverse backgrounds, including Hmong hill people and Spider-Man cosplayers, turned out to cast their ballots in Thailand’s election. The young generation’s dissatisfaction with the conservative establishment and a struggling economy has positioned opposition parties for a potential victory. The election is seen as crucial for the country’s future, with hopes for change and concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.

Thai polls close with army-backed PM tipped for defeat

Vote counting began in Thailand’s general election, with pro-democracy parties expected to defeat the military-backed government. The opposition Pheu Thai party, led by Thaksin Shinawatra’s daughter, was ahead in opinion polls. However, concerns remain about military interference, and the final outcome could lead to instability and further protests. The election marks a clash between the younger generation and the traditionalist establishment, with hopes for change amidst a backdrop of past coups and court orders.

Thailand holds landmark election amid high security and volunteer monitoring

Thailand’s pivotal election took place today amidst tight security and volunteer-led oversight. Approximately 50 million voters chose between the status quo and radical change. Over 33,000 volunteers have registered as election observers with Thai NGO, iLaw, ensuring transparency and integrity. As the nation awaits unofficial poll results, anticipated by 11pm, the future of Thailand hangs in the balance.

Final countdown: Thai parties make last-day pitch to voters

In a final bid to rally voters, Thai opposition leaders hit the streets of Bangkok, urging the public to oust the military-backed government in Sunday’s election. Despite apprehensions of military intervention, leaders like Pheu Thai’s PM candidate, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, remain hopeful. However, their path to power could be hindered by a military-influenced Senate. The election has become a generational clash, with younger, pro-democracy opposition challenging the royalist establishment.

Thai youth voice hope and aspirations ahead of upcoming General Election

As Thailand’s election nears, the country’s youth are poised to shape its future. Sharing their thoughts in an interview, Mae Fah Luang University students express hope that the election will usher in a new era, despite challenges. The Move Forward Party and Pheu Thai Party resonate with young voters, but the anticipated post-election alliance may fall short of required votes. However, the students are hopeful for change, emphasizing the importance of local engagement, progressive foreign policy, and a steadfast resolve for a better future.

Colours and music clash as Thai parties rally

Ahead of Thailand’s forthcoming election, thousands gathered in Bangkok for final rallies, revealing a generational divide. The contest is between establishment army-backed parties like caretaker PM Prayut Chan-o-Cha’s United Thai Nation and the resurgent opposition, led by Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of ex-PM Thaksin. Despite leading in the polls, the opposition faces challenges, with the more radical Move Forward Party potentially encountering legal obstacles reminiscent of its predecessor’s fate.