Is Thailand at a turning point, or will the military-backed elites quickly call time on reform? High turnout in Sunday’s general election delivered an unprecedented result, with Pita Limjaroenrat's Move Forward party topping the populist Pheu Thai of Paethongtarn Shinawatra. Together, the pair blew away the United Thai National Party of the outgoing prime minister and former coup leader Prayuth Chen-Ocha.
We ask why and what hopes are pinned on a coalition that still needs the approval of a Senate entirely appointed by the military.
Will the upper chamber respect the will of the people? In a nation known for its steady diet of coups, crackdowns and turmoil, possible scenarios abound. What's clear is that this election opens a new front in the traditional divide of urban elites versus rural poor. For Move Forward, reform includes an end to military conscription and those harsh prison sentences for anyone who dares criticise the monarchy. Is Thailand ready to break that taboo?
Produced by Yi Song, Laura Welfringer, Juliette Laurain and Imen Mellaz.
