Thailand’s parliament selects Anutin as country’s new prime minister

Thailand – (Web Desk) – On Thursday, Thailand’s new parliament elected Anutin Charnvirakul as prime minister. AFP reported that he cleared the 250-vote threshold. His party had a big win, leaving rivals far behind.

The new government faces several challenges. These include slow economic growth, border tensions with Cambodia, and the effects of the war in the Middle East.

Before the vote, Anutin told reporters, “I hope to stay in this position as long as I can to serve the people. Whenever there is a problem, I will respond quickly.”

Anutin’s Bhumjaithai party, which supports the military and monarchy, had its best election ever in February. The party promised to build a wall along the Cambodian border, close all border crossings, and recruit 100,000 volunteer soldiers. These promises helped them win the most seats.

The Pheu Thai party, led by jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s allies, agreed to join a coalition with Anutin and 14 smaller parties. Parliament officially named him prime minister.

Anutin, 59, comes from a wealthy construction family. He is also known for supporting cannabis decriminalization. He first became prime minister in September after Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin’s daughter, was removed from office over an ethics complaint.

The opposition will be led by the reformist People’s Party, which came second in the election. Ten of its newly elected MPs, including leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, face ethics allegations. Natthaphong said their nomination for prime minister was not about forming a government. Instead, it was “to communicate with citizens effectively.”

Thailand’s economy slowed last year. Tourism struggled, and Vietnam is attracting more foreign investment. After Israeli-US strikes on Iran, Anutin said he would “turn this Middle East crisis into an opportunity for Thailand.” But higher fuel prices and supply problems are already affecting the country.

Political expert Yuttaporn Issarachai said the new government must focus on external challenges, especially economic issues. “So far, the cabinet has not offered strong solutions to fuel prices, only temporary fixes like working from home,” he said.

Pakistan Announces Temporary Pause in Operation Ghazab Lil Haq

Border tensions with Cambodia also remain. The 800-kilometre boundary is still unsettled, and the military recently took control of disputed areas. But voters are more concerned about the economy, which is now the public’s main priority.