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Prawit Wongsuwan

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Thais expected to deliver heavy poll blow to military parties

Thailand’s upcoming election is expected to reject former coup leader Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha, with the opposition led by Thaksin Shinawatra’s daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, likely to win the most seats. The election marks a turning point after pro-democracy protests and calls for reform. The Senate, appointed by the military, holds significant power in selecting the prime minister, potentially blocking Pheu Thai’s path to power. The election focuses on economic issues, with high early turnout reflecting a desire for change. The wildcard is the radical Move Forward Party, which could affect coalition-building and raise the risk of military intervention.

Billionaires, generals, democrats: A guide to Thailand’s election

Thailand’s upcoming election sees a clash between military generals and a resurgent opposition. Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-Cha and former ally Prawit Wongsuwan lead the military-backed parties, while Paetongtarn Shinawatra represents the opposition Pheu Thai party, and Pita Limjaroenrat leads the youth-led Move Forward Party. Coalitions will play a crucial role, and the possibility of another coup looms if certain outcomes arise. Dissolution of parties, as seen in 2020, is also a potential consequence.

Thai elections 2023: the PM candidates

The candidates vying for Thailand’s next prime minister include incumbent Prayut Chan-o-Cha, known for his role in the 2014 military coup, Prawit Wongsuwan, the “Rolex general” with a history in the military, Pita Limjaroenrat, a fresh-faced entrepreneur, and Anutin Charnvirakul, the health minister and leader of the Bhumjaithai party, who decriminalized marijuana in 2022.