Business magnate takes lead in parliamentary selection for Prime Minister in Thailand

Thailand's Parliament Votes Amidst Political Drama

A significant day in Thai politics is upon us, as voting is scheduled to take place in the parliament building around 10:00 am (0300 GMT). The vote comes at a time when the country's political landscape is undergoing a dramatic shift, with the Pheu Thai party, led by the Shinawatra family, facing numerous challenges.

The Shinawatra clan, a mainstay of Thai politics for the past two decades, has been dealt a heavy blow following the sacking of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, a dynasty heiress, from her post last week. The Constitutional Court found her conduct to be a breach of ministerial ethics, leading to her dismissal on August 29.

Despite this setback, the Pheu Thai party, which has held Thailand's top office since the 2023 elections, has pledged to put forward its own candidate for prime minister, Chaikasem Nitisiri. Chaikasem, a former justice minister under a previous Shinawatra prime minister, is hoping to lead the party through these challenging times.

However, the Pheu Thai party's efforts to dissolve parliament before the vote were rejected by royal officials. According to acting prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai, the reason for the rejection lies in disputed legal issues around Pheu Thai's ability to make such a move as an interim administration.

Meanwhile, construction magnate Anutin Charnvirakul, known for legalizing cannabis in 2022, is securing backing from opposition blocs. This potential support could give him a majority in the lower house, posing a significant threat to the Pheu Thai party's grip on power.

Anutin, who previously served as deputy prime minister, interior minister, and health minister, has gained the support of the largest opposition party, the People's Party, but only on the condition that parliament is dissolved for fresh elections within four months. The Bhumjaithai Party, an ally of Anutin, is providing reliable support.

Before his exit from the government of Paetongtarn Shinawatra in the summer of 2023, Anutin supported the Bhumjaithai Party, which was part of the Pheu Thai-led coalition government at that time. However, he abandoned her over conduct during a border dispute with Cambodia.

The Shinawatra clan has cultivated a populist brand and has been a jousting partner with the pro-military, pro-monarchy establishment. The clan's political fortunes have been on a downward spiral, with increasing legal and political setbacks.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the outcome of the vote, Sorawong Thienthong, the party secretary general, has stated that it does not matter if the Pheu Thai party wins or loses. The focus, he says, should be on ensuring a stable and peaceful transition of power.

As the political drama unfolds in Thailand, one thing is certain: the future of the country's politics hangs in the balance. The outcome of the parliamentary vote will undoubtedly shape the course of Thai politics for years to come.

Business magnate takes lead in parliamentary selection for Prime Minister in Thailand