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Thailand General Election 2023

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Timeline of Thai politics as parliament votes for PM

Thailand’s parliament convened for a prime ministerial vote, but frontrunner Pita Limjaroenrat faced obstacles hindering his path to power. This vote is a culmination of two turbulent decades in the nation’s history, marked by political upheaval, coups, protests, and a struggle for democracy. Pita’s chances are slim, as he needs to secure the support of conservative senators who oppose his party’s plans for monarchy reform, while also dealing with legal cases against him and his party.

Pita Limjaroenrat: the PM frontrunner fighting to change Thailand

Pita Limjaroenrat, the charismatic and reform-minded leader of Thailand’s Move Forward Party, faces legal challenges and opposition as he vies to become the next prime minister, but remains determined to fight for democracy.

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 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.

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 opposition leader confident of forming government

The leader of Thailand’s Move Forward Party (MFP) expressed confidence in becoming prime minister despite opposition from junta-appointed senators. The MFP, emerging as the largest party after a record-turnout election, formed a coalition with two other parties, securing a majority in the lower house. However, the appointment requires majority support across both houses, including the Senate. The MFP’s intention to amend laws against insulting the king has alarmed the conservative establishment. While facing challenges, the MFP remains optimistic about setting up the government and finding middle ground on lese-majeste reform, a previously forbidden topic.

Thai opposition claims victory as voters reject army-backed parties

Thailand’s progressive Move Forward Party (MFP) celebrated a resounding victory in the recent election, signaling a major shift in the country’s political landscape. The military-backed parties, which have dominated Thai politics for nearly a decade, were decimated by the massive surge in support for MFP. With the largest number of seats, MFP is poised to form a six-party coalition, including the opposition Pheu Thai movement. MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat expressed readiness to lead the government, emphasizing the importance of unity. However, concerns remain over potential obstacles, given Thailand’s history of coups and judicial interference.

ASEAN Parliamentarians urge Thai military to respect election outcome amid coalition talks

ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APHR) hailed the Thai general elections results, urging Thai authorities to respect voters’ call for democratic reform. Despite opposition parties’ win, APHR warned against potential governmental formation blocks due to military-appointed upper house influence.