Anutin's PM Prospects Rise as Bhumjaithai Gains Ground

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Anutin Charnvirakul. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia

 

In a significant political development, the Bhumjaithai (BJT) Party, under the leadership of Anutin Charnvirakul, has emerged as a formidable force in Thailand's political arena following its stellar performance in the recent local polls. Analysts are now speculating that Anutin might be a strong contender for the prime ministership in the next general election.

 

This weekend's local elections were conducted across 47 provinces, offering insights into shifting political allegiances. BJT's showing has spelled trouble for the ruling Pheu Thai Party, led by the influential Thaksin Shinawatra.

Viewed traditionally as strongholds of the Pheu Thai, the Northern and Northeastern regions witnessed notable inroads made by BJT, indicative of changing public sentiment.

 

The election results were telling: Pheu Thai retained control of 16 Provincial Administrative Organisations (PAO), whilst BJT clinched 14. In comparison, the People's Party managed to secure only a single PAO chair, despite contesting 17 across the country.

 

Other notable results included the United Thai Nation (UTN) claiming four seats, with the opposition Democrat Party and several independent candidates securing a modest share.

The implications of the results became clearer as experts weighed in. Wanwichit Boonprong of Rangsit University suggested that BJT's newfound electoral success could allow it greater leverage in coalition negotiations come the general elections.

 

An alliance with Pheu Thai, previously seen as guarantor for its political aspirations, might not be necessary should BJT continue its upward trajectory.

 

With potential coalition reshuffles on the horizon, some speculate BJT may coalesce with the People's Party if it proves electorally fruitful. This evolving strategy signals BJT's intent to capitalise on its political momentum to influence future governance more fundamentally.

 

Political scientist Olarn Thinbangtieo of Burapha University echoed these sentiments. He stressed that strengthened relations with grassroots organisations like the Senate and PAOs bolstered Anutin's prime ministerial prospects.

 

These alignments could be decisive should Pheu Thai falter, or BJT outpace its adversaries in the next election.

 

Despite Pheu Thai's enduring influence, reflected in its maintained presence in certain regions such as Chiang Rai and Nakhon Phanom, Thaksin's once indomitable political brand appears to be facing challenges.

 

His campaign efforts did not deliver the anticipated swing in voter support, causing some to question if BJT's rise might alter the political landscape substantially.

 

As the country inches closer to the general elections, these results underscore the dynamic and competitive nature of Thai politics.

 

Observers, citizens, and stakeholders now keenly watch Anutin and BJT's next moves, hopeful for clues about Thailand's future leadership. With BJT's path to power becoming clearer, the stakes for all parties involved have never been higher, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2025-02-03

 

 

[hotsun]

Wonder what the future will be like for dirty farang once hes in charge

[Artisi]

So poo thai won 16

BJ won 14

That means 17 were won by others, does that mean that poo thai were the runner uppers? 

[kinyara]

Let's not forget that Bhumjaithai secured a measly 2.99% of the national vote in the 2023 General Election.

 

It has ridiculous influence above its station purely because of the concerted effort to block the popular Move Forward/PP party from reforming the corrupt system that benefits the influential political families and institutions.