Thai reformist party to back rival after PM vote defeat

Thailand’s reformist party, Move Forward Party (MFP), will support a rival candidate from Pheu Thai for prime minister after MFP’s leader was blocked by the military and pro-royalist establishment. MFP’s focus is on restoring civilian government and democracy.

Thai govt calls for calm after reformist’s PM bid fails

Thai caretaker Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha urges calm after military and pro-royalist lawmakers thwart a popular progressive candidate’s bid to become the next premier. A peaceful protest follows, expressing frustration over the situation. The Move Forward Party’s reformist platform poses a threat to the establishment’s agenda, leading to the suspension of its leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, from parliament. Pita has promised to step aside, and property tycoon Srettha Thavisin is expected to lead the coalition backing him.

Thai parliament to hold another PM vote after reformist candidate falls short

Thailand’s parliament will hold a second vote for the new prime minister on 19 July after pro-royalist lawmakers blocked frontrunner Pita Limjaroenrat’s bid.

Thai caretaker PM Prayut announces retirement from politics

Outgoing Thai PM Prayut Chan-o-Cha announced his retirement, but will stay on as caretaker until a new government is formed. Voters rejected army-backed parties in the May election, favoring reform and opposition groups. Prayut urged UTN members to protect the nation’s institutions.

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.

Thai army chief says no coup as election looms

Thailand’s army chief assured that there would be no coup ahead of the upcoming election, despite the military’s history of seizing power. The opposition-led by Pheu Thai is expected to gain significant support, but the final outcome depends on the composition of the elected MPs and senate, which favors army-linked parties. The election has been marked by pro-democracy protests and concerns over the monarchy’s power.

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.