Srettha Thavisin of the populist Pheu Thai party clinched parliamentary votes to become the 30th Prime Minister on Tuesday.
Amidst the ongoing voting, his backers celebrated, ending post-election uncertainty. Progressive Move Forward Party’s victory was thwarted by conservative senators, stirring contention.
Srettha, who entered politics just months before the May general election, surpasses the 375-vote threshold to become premier and form the new government.
Srettha Thavisin’s election as the country’s 30th prime minister has ended months of political uncertainty in the country.
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Thailand to Have a Coalition Government
Thavisin secured enough votes in parliament to form a coalition government with 11 parties, including two pro-military parties. The move was criticized by some as a betrayal of the election results, but Pheu Thai leaders said it was necessary to end the political deadlock and create reconciliation.
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Thaksin Shinawatra to Serve 8-Year Prison Sentence
The vote came hours after former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra returned to Thailand to begin an eight-year prison sentence for corruption. Thaksin’s supporters gathered outside the airport to welcome him, and he was later taken to Bangkok’s main prison.
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Thaksin’s return is seen as a major victory for the Pheu Thai party, and it is likely to have a significant impact on Thai politics. Thaksin is a divisive figure, and his presence in the country is likely to further polarize the political landscape.
Hundreds Greet Former Thai Premier at Airport
Hundreds greeted Thaksin at the airport, wearing red, singing, and cheering. Pheu Thai faced criticism for working with pro-military parties, causing speculation about sentence reduction.
Thaksin’s return potentially links with the election’s outcome and coalition building. Napon Jatusripitak, a political science researcher, emphasized a link between elections and Thaksin’s return.
Thaksin’s convoy reached the Supreme Court, confirming his sentence for corruption. Correctional officers marked him “vulnerable” due to health issues. Thaksin’s daughter thanked supporters on social media.
Daunting Challenges Ahead for Thavisin Srettha
It remains to be seen how Thavisin will be able to govern effectively in the face of Thaksin’s influence. However, his election is a significant step towards political stability in Thailand.
Srettha, a real estate magnate, will lead a coalition of 11 parties with two pro-military groups linked to Prayuth Chan-ocha, the outgoing Prime Minister. Excluded from the coalition, Move Forward faced criticism for betraying election results. Pheu Thai defended the coalition, aiming to break the deadlock and foster reconciliation.
[…] Srettha Thavisin Becomes 30th Thai PM After Winning Parliament […]