Thailand's Pheu Thai party, a populist political group, received backing from its major coalition partners to nominate a new prime minister following the removal of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin due to an ethical violation. The Constitutional Court found Srettha guilty of an ethical breach related to the appointment of a Cabinet member with a criminal record.
The party executives are set to meet to decide on their prime ministerial nomination, with a vote scheduled for Friday. Pheu Thai's ruling coalition partners, including the Bhumjaithai party and pro-military parties, have endorsed the party's candidate.
Two eligible candidates from Pheu Thai are being considered for the position. One is Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, and the other is Chaikasem Nitisiri, a former Minister of Justice. Anutin Charnvirakul, the Bhumjaithai party's leader, is also seen as a frontrunner.
Last week, the Constitutional Court dissolved the Move Forward party, the main opposition party, for proposing an amendment to a law against defaming the royal family. The Move Forward party has regrouped as the People's Party and has stated that they will not support a candidate from Pheu Thai in the upcoming vote.
The royal defamation law, known as Article 112, has been a contentious issue in Thai politics. While Pheu Thai discussed amending the law during the election campaign, its coalition partners have reiterated their opposition to any changes.
The new prime ministerial candidate will need a majority vote from the lower house, with the Senate no longer holding veto power over the selection. The House of Representatives currently has 493 members, with some lawmakers facing bans or suspensions.
Despite internal and external challenges, Pheu Thai aims to navigate the political landscape and secure a new leader to lead the government. The upcoming vote will be crucial in determining the direction of Thailand's political future.
