Thai parliament votes for PM with reformist frontrunner facing hurdles

Thailand’s reformist frontrunner for prime minister, Pita Limjaroenrat, faces hurdles that could undermine his bid, including parliamentary suspension and a court case accusing him of attempting to overthrow the monarchy. Despite these obstacles, Pita remains optimistic about Thursday’s parliamentary vote.

Thai Election Commission recommends PM frontrunner’s suspension

Thailand’s Election Commission recommends suspension of frontrunner Pita Limjaroenrat over campaign rule violations, adding uncertainty to the upcoming parliamentary vote for prime minister.

Thai parliament to vote on new prime minister on 13 July

Thailand’s parliament will vote on appointing Pita Limjaroenrat as prime minister on 13 July. His party, Move Forward Party, has formed an alliance but lacks the necessary votes. If the vote fails, further voting will take place, with the possibility of alternative candidates. Challenges include resistance from the Senate and an investigation into Pita’s eligibility.

Thai House picks compromise speaker as progressives seek to form govt

Thai parliament compromises on House speaker, potentially complicating pro-democracy leader Pita’s bid for prime minister.

Thai King opens parliament after shock election result

Thailand’s king opens parliament after pro-democracy opposition wins election, but forming a coalition government remains challenging.

Thai PM front runner claims enough Senate support for top job

Thailand’s potential next PM, Pita Limjaroenra, claims enough Senate support despite challenges and controversial reform plans.

Thai election commission ratifies vote results

Thailand’s pro-democracy opposition wins, Move Forward Party becomes largest group, with leader Pita Limjaroenrat as potential prime minister.

Thai PM frontrunner faces election probe

Thailand’s potential prime minister faces a probe that could disqualify him due to ownership of shares in a defunct media company, violating election laws. The investigation, expected to last for an undetermined period, may result in disqualification and a jail term of up to 10 years. The ruling party remains confident and emphasizes the importance of people power and adherence to constitutional principles. The outcome of this investigation will impact the formation of the new government and may lead to further political unrest.

Voices of tomorrow: Thai youth reflect on election results and envision the path forward

Post-election, students from Mae Fah Luang University share their optimism in an interview by Simone Galimberti for the new coalition government, led by MFP. They express their hopes for prudent welfare policies, and yearn for a system that allows youth to have real agency. They also envision a shift in foreign policy, favoring regional integration, human rights, and democracy promotion. These young voices represent the hope and change the new government could bring to Thailand.

Thai coalition agrees plans but silent on royal insult reform

Thailand’s incoming government, led by the progressive Move Forward Party (MFP), has announced plans to rewrite the constitution, legalize same-sex marriage, and end military conscription. However, controversial proposals to change royal insult laws were not mentioned. MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat remains determined to become prime minister despite opposition from the military-allied Senate. The coalition aims to peacefully transform the government and push for their agreed-upon agenda, including constitutional reform and addressing monopolies and oligopolies in the economy.