Major foreign media outlets see the Thai general election as a major crossroads for a country familiar with military intervention in politics, but with a ballooning movement against the old norms.

 

According to the BBC, “The election is being described as a turning point for a country that has experienced a dozen military coups in its recent history. Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha, the army general who led the last coup in 2014, is seeking another term, but he is facing a strong challenge from two anti-military parties.”

 

CNN expects Pheu Thai to emerge more prominently from the election, but called Move Forward a “game changer” with aggressive policies and youthful candidates. Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat was lauded for his eloquence, which has made him one of the leading prime ministerial candidates.

 

Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/western-media-agree-thailand-is-at-a-crucial-juncture/

 

-- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-05-15

 

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More importantly the election results prove the Thai people agree they want democracy.

Western media try to explain Thai politics in a minute, or maybe maximum up to 5 minutes.

That just doesn't work.

 

And about the BBC: They showed their utter ignorance in 2010. There is absolutely no reason to believe they know what is going on in Thailand.

Rarely agree with Western MSM. But this is correct. If the military tries to subvert the people's will (again) I doubt Thais will roll over and play dead. A bit much boiling under the surface.

Edited May 14, 20233 yr by Chicksaw

foreign media doesn't have a clue about what makes Thai politics work, hack, sometimes even most Thai don't know much about it, all they want is not to be forgotten once the election is over and the election's promises gone with the wind. 

As others have said "as long as it lasts".  

2 hours ago, webfact said:

Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha, the army general who led the last coup in 2014, is seeking another term, but he is facing a strong challenge from two anti-military parties.”

.."..strong challenge from two anti-military parties". sure! but militaries are still stronger

3 hours ago, MrMojoRisin said:

More importantly the election results prove the Thai people agree they want democracy.

But will they get it?

Should be interesting, if not ousted via EC court, as FF party leader was, and party banned.  

 

Does show the Thais are tired of the generals ruling. Now if the can keep a non general in office long enough to matter.

 

If ousted, the violent or not so violent protests would give the generals reason to once again, do a coup, to restore order, there excuse the last time.

 

2 non general administration elected since I've been here, and both coup'd.   See if the 3rd time a charm.  Hopefully the generals are too old and sensible to care.

Edited May 15, 20233 yr by KhunLA

" Military intervention " will probably occur again within a Year or so.

 

The people have voted for change. It's a simple as that. The less simple bit is will they get it or will Prayut and his mob hold on to power by any other means ingnoring the clear will of the people?

20 minutes ago, Cake Monster said:

" Military intervention " will probably occur again within a Year or so.

 

This is Thailand so this cannot be ruled out. If it happens the people of Thailand will not accept it and will raise up. The people have had enough of military dominance in politics. The army knows this so I think the possibility of a coup is lessened but of course TIT.