Thailand’s Parliament has chosen a new prime minister, Srettha Thavisin, ending a period of uncertainty that brought the nation to the brink of a political crisis. Srettha, a real estate tycoon and ally of former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, was chosen from a party considered acceptable to conservative elites. This decision came after Thaksin’s dramatic return to Thailand after 15 years in exile, only to be swiftly arrested due to prior corruption and abuse-of-power convictions. Despite Srettha’s selection resolving the political deadlock, he faces the challenging task of appeasing an electorate disillusioned by his party’s shift and managing tensions between the public, military, and royalist establishment.
The political landscape shifted considerably in Thailand as the populist Move Forward Party, led by Pita Limjaroenrat, aimed to challenge the monarchy criticism law and military influence. However, internal conflicts and legal issues hampered their efforts, leading to their eventual collapse. Srettha’s party, Pheu Thai, formed a coalition with military-linked parties, a move that disappointed Move Forward supporters who protested against this alliance. Srettha, known for his ties to the Bangkok elite, secured enough votes to become prime minister, reflecting his technocratic image, but also highlighting divisions within the country’s political landscape.
Thaksin’s return marked a significant shift, transforming him from a divisive figure into a potential ally for the conservative establishment. Previously seen as a threat, he now appears to represent compromise and stability, with rumors of a deal between him and powerful royalists to ensure the maintenance of military and conservative influence. Despite Srettha’s victory, the political and social fractures within Thailand remain, setting the stage for ongoing conflicts between public sentiment and entrenched institutions.
(Source: Bangkok Post)
