Anutin Charnvirakul, a veteran businessman and political personality, has been elected as Thailand’s new Prime Minister. His tenure as Thailand’s Health Minister during the COVID-19 pandemic brought him to prominence, and he is also recognized for his support in decriminalizing cannabis in 2022. Charnvirakul’s leadership has been evident in his success in securing 247 votes in the lower house, cementing his role as a kingmaker in Thai politics for over a decade. The Thai parliament currently comprises 492 active members.
This election signifies the third prime minister selected in Thailand this year, against the backdrop of the removal of five prime ministers by the courts in the past 17 years. The recent removal of former Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, due to ethics violations, added to the political and economic strains on Thailand during her ten-month period in office. The nation’s economy heavily relies on trade and tourism, with the United States being a key partner; however, a 19% US tariff has hindered GDP growth.
The Bhumjaithai Party, led by Charnvirakul, holds the third-largest position in parliament. The party reached a deal this week with the opposing People’s Party, securing their support. As part of this agreement, Charnvirakul pledged to dissolve the parliament and call for general elections within four months.
Despite obtaining the most votes in the 2023 elections, the People’s Party was excluded from power because of their demand for alterations to the royal defamation laws. The party will offer support to Charnvirakul’s government from an external perspective.
Charnvirakul, at 58 years of age, identifies as a conservative and a staunch nationalist. Previously, he held the Home Minister position within Paetongtarn’s coalition government. His selection as Prime Minister poses a challenge to the Pheu Thai Party, which, under the guidance of Paetongtarn’s father, Thaksin Shinawatra, maintained its dominance in Thai politics for two decades. Shinawatra served as Prime Minister from 2001 until his removal by the military in 2006.
