Thailand Political Crisis 2025: People’s Party Backs Anutin as PM Vote Set for Sept 5
Thailand’s political crisis has entered a decisive phase after the People’s Party, the largest bloc in parliament, announced its support for Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, to become Thailand’s 32nd prime minister.
People’s Party Turns Kingmaker in Thai Politics
On Tuesday evening, Sept 2, the People’s Party signed a memorandum of understanding with Anutin, with the Bhumjaithai leader adding his countersignature the following morning. This agreement makes Anutin the frontrunner to succeed ousted Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who was dismissed by the Constitutional Court last week.
Anutin, speaking at a press conference after signing the MOU, pledged to honour the Terms of Agreement set by the People’s Party.
The deal commits any new government to dissolve the House within four months of delivering its policy statement, advance constitutional reform, including a referendum if required, and establish an elected constituent assembly. The People’s Party will remain outside the cabinet and has insisted that Bhumjaithai refrain from entrenching a long-term majority that could delay dissolution.
Caretaker Dissolution Bid Rejected
Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai claimed he had filed for the dissolution of parliament, but the attempt was quickly blocked. The Privy Council returned the draft royal decree to the Cabinet Secretariat, citing unresolved legal disputes over whether a caretaker government can request dissolution.
The Council of State reinforced that interpretation, issuing a legal opinion declaring that a caretaker cabinet cannot dissolve the House. This ruling effectively pushes responsibility back to parliament to elect a new prime minister before any dissolution can take place.
PM Vote Scheduled for Sept 5
House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, known as “Wan Nor”, has scheduled a parliamentary session on Friday, Sept 5, to elect Thailand’s next prime minister. Under parliamentary rules, the successful candidate requires at least 247 votes out of 492.
With the People’s Party’s backing, Anutin has emerged as the leading contender. If confirmed, he would head a transitional administration, tasked with preparing fresh elections and advancing constitutional reform under the terms of the agreement.