BANGKOK: Thai lawmakers have granted approval to business magnate Srettha Thavisin as the nation’s new prime minister, effectively ending a prolonged political deadlock. The decision was reached on the same day that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra returned from exile, adding further intrigue to the political landscape.
Srettha Thavisin secured a substantial majority across both houses of Parliament, effectively earning approval as Thailand’s 30th prime minister. This decision comes despite his Pheu Thai party securing the second position in the May election.
Reaching well above the necessary threshold of 375 votes, Mr. Thavisin garnered support from 482 out of 928 total votes cast, with 165 votes against and 81 abstentions, as reported by Parliament TV.
In his statement to the press at Pheu Thai’s headquarters following the confirmation, Mr. Thavisin expressed his commitment to enhancing the quality of life for the Thai populace. He highlighted the honor of being elected prime minister and pledged his utmost dedication to the role.
Pheu Thai’s Coalition Commands Majority
Pheu Thai’s coalition, comprising 11 parties, commands 314 seats out of the Lower House’s total of 500. However, the coalition’s decision to include former adversaries, including pro-military parties, has stirred controversy. Speculation has arisen about potential arrangements between Pheu Thai and Thailand’s pro-military royalist establishment, a matter the party denies.
The parliamentary decision comes on the heels of Thaksin Shinawatra’s return to Thailand after over a decade of exile. Notably, Thaksin was immediately incarcerated upon his return.
Srettha Thavisin, former head of Thai property giant Sansiri, has vowed to address poverty and inequality while rejecting allegations of corruption. His reputation within the influential business community has raised hopes for economic revitalization after a period of stagnation under military-influenced administrations.
Following the news of his appointment, the Thai stock market rallied by 20 points, and shares of Sansiri surged by nearly 7.5 percent.
The election campaign saw Mr. Thavisin addressing a range of issues including education reform, LGBTQ rights, environmental protection, and income disparity. Known as a dedicated Liverpool football fan, he utilized platforms like TikTok to showcase his football skills while emphasizing the importance of teamwork in both football and politics.
While Pita Limjaroenrat, leader of the reformist Move Forward Party (MFP), garnered the most seats in the May election, opposition from junta-appointed senators curtailed his bid to become prime minister. Following Srettha Thavisin’s confirmation, Pita Limjaroenrat affirmed MFP’s commitment to functioning as a trusted political institution in opposition.
