Affirms New Election Commitment: Thailand's Upcoming Prime Minister

In a significant turn of events, Anutin Charnvirakul, a prominent Conservative tycoon and former cabinet member, has been confirmed as Thailand's new parliament member, marking his elevation to the premiership. This appointment comes after a week-long power vacuum following the ouster of his predecessor, Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

The reason for Paetongtarn's withdrawal was alleged misconduct, as revealed in a leaked phone call between her and Cambodian ex-leader Hun Sen. The leaked conversation has caused a stir in Thai politics, leading to her removal from the position.

Anutin, who is perhaps most famous for decriminalizing cannabis in 2022, formed a coalition with opposition blocs to exclude Pheu Thai, the electoral vehicle of the Shinawatra dynasty's patriarch Thaksin. The People's Party, which holds a plurality of seats, backed Anutin with conditions that he met on Saturday.

The Shinawatras, who have been a mainstay of Thai politics for the past two decades, have faced a series of setbacks. Thaksin Shinawatra, the former electoral vehicle's patriarch, unexpectedly left the kingdom before the parliamentary vote, adding to the family's troubles.

Thaksin is bound for Dubai where he plans to visit friends and seek medical treatment. The Supreme Court is due to rule on Tuesday in a case over a hospital stay following Thaksin's return from exile in August 2023.

Anutin has announced his intention to dissolve the parliament in four months. He plans to form his cabinet as soon as possible, with the foreign minister and energy minister already confirmed for his cabinet.

It is worth noting that Anutin Charnvirakul's elevation to the premiership still needs to be endorsed by Thailand's king, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, also known as Rama X. Once endorsed, Anutin will officially become the Prime Minister of Thailand.

The Shinawatras have sparred with the pro-monarchy, pro-military establishment that views them as a threat to the kingdom's traditional social order. Anutin's appointment could potentially mark a shift in Thai politics, as he is known for his conservative views and his ability to form coalitions with opposition blocs.

This development in Thai politics will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications, and it will be interesting to see how the country moves forward under Anutin's leadership.