Hadisur Rahman, JadeTimes Staff
H. Rahman is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia
Thailand has appointed Anutin Charnvirakul as its new Prime Minister, the third person to assume the role in just two years, following weeks of political turbulence and shifting alliances in Parliament.
Anutin, 58, secured a clear majority in the parliamentary vote, paving the way for him to officially take office after receiving royal endorsement. His rise to power comes after the removal of former Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who was ousted by the Constitutional Court over an ethics violation that fractured her governing coalition.
The new leader, head of the Bhumjaithai Party, built his path to power by forging an unexpected alliance with opposition lawmakers who had long criticized the government’s handling of economic challenges and governance. As part of this political deal, Anutin has pledged to call new elections within four months and to consider constitutional reforms aimed at easing long-standing divisions in Thai politics.
Anutin is no stranger to public office. Over the past two decades, he has served as health minister, deputy prime minister, and most recently as interior minister. He is widely known for his controversial role in decriminalizing cannabis in 2022, a policy that earned him both praise for modernizing the country’s drug laws and criticism for the chaotic rollout that followed.
As prime minister, Anutin faces immediate challenges: stabilizing a fractured political system, restoring public trust, and addressing economic pressures that have fueled widespread discontent. His ability to manage these crises will be closely watched, especially as his government’s survival depends on maintaining fragile alliances in Parliament.
Despite the uncertainty, Anutin struck an optimistic tone in his first remarks after the vote. “This is a moment to bring unity, stability, and progress for Thailand,” he said. “I will work to ensure that our democracy moves forward and that our people are heard.”
For many Thais, however, the rapid turnover of leaders has left lingering doubts about whether the country’s political system can deliver long-term stability. Anutin’s leadership now stands as the latest test in Thailand’s turbulent journey toward democratic resilience.
