Thai politics is currently experiencing a period of uncertainty. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the young Prime Minister, has been removed from office by a court decision. Shinawatra, who took power just a year ago, is the daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Her removal has significantly impacted her political career.
Since her departure, discussions have centered on who will take over the leadership of Thailand. Anutin Charnvirakul, a businessman-turned-politician, is a prominent figure in the discussions. As a key figure in legalizing medical cannabis, Anutin is considered a strong contender for the position of Prime Minister.
Who is Anutin Charnvirakul?
Anutin comes from a prominent business family and is a powerful figure in politics. He leads the Bhumjaithai Party and was the Health Minister during the COVID-19 pandemic. He gained considerable recognition for his role in legalizing medical cannabis in Thailand.
He is often jokingly referred to as the ‘Ganja Man’. Anutin’s Bhumjaithai Party was previously a key part of Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s government. However, the party withdrew from the coalition recently, due to disagreements concerning Paetongtarn’s approach to the border dispute with Cambodia.
The People’s Party: The Decisive Factor
The People’s Party, the largest opposition party in Thailand, has indicated its support for Anutin to become Prime Minister. However, this support is conditional. The party has stated that Anutin must dissolve the parliament within four months and initiate constitutional changes. This suggests that the arrangement is only temporary.
Anutin currently has a coalition of 146 seats, formed with seven parties and smaller groups. However, the People’s Party holds the ultimate influence. The People’s Party has declared that it will not join Anutin’s government. However, it will offer support from its 143 members of parliament, which will enable Anutin to secure the 247 votes needed to become Prime Minister.
Will Thailand’s Politics Change?
The main question is whether Anutin’s term as Prime Minister will be limited to four months, or if this will be the beginning of his long-term political journey. The People’s Party has stated that it supports Anutin not to save any individual leader, but to safeguard the country from external political pressure and from unstable coalition governments.
