In the Thai general election, the conservative party led by Prime Minister Anutin has become the largest party but did not achieve an outright majority, leading to forthcoming coalition negotiations.
The Thai general election held on the 8th resulted in the conservative ruling party, the Bhumjaithai Party, becoming the largest party, according to unofficial counts by the Election Commission. The public broadcaster PBS reported that Bhumjaithai is projected to win 194 out of 500 seats in the House of Representatives, a significant increase from the 71 seats it won in the previous election. However, the party has not secured an outright majority, which will necessitate coalition negotiations for governance.
As of 7 AM on the 9th, with a 93% vote count reported, the main opposition party, the Move Forward Party, is expected to secure 116 seats. Meanwhile, the Pheu Thai Party, associated with former Prime Minister Thaksin, is projected to win 76 seats, indicating a substantial loss. Anutin, in a press conference on the election night, highlighted that it was too early to discuss coalition specifics as official results were still pending, focusing on the successes of his own party.
Additionally, a national referendum on constitutional amendments conducted on the same day showed public favor, with unofficial counts indicating 60% in support of revisions, compared to 32% opposed. Critics argue that the current constitution favors military and bureaucratic elites, and the growing calls for reform reflect a desire for more equitable governance since it was enacted during military rule. Amending the constitution will involve a series of three referendums, with the next steps contingent on a confirmed majority in favor of the proposals.
