Skip to content

Political upheaval in Thailand continues as a third prime minister is installed within just two years.

Thailand's Parliament elects Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, as new prime minister on September 5, 2025, making him the third individual to occupy the position within a two-year period. The selection was made in the wake of Paetongtarn Shinawatra's ousting by the...

Political upheaval in Thailand leads to the selection of a third prime minister in just two years.
Political upheaval in Thailand leads to the selection of a third prime minister in just two years.

Political upheaval in Thailand continues as a third prime minister is installed within just two years.

New Prime Minister of Thailand, Anutin Charnvirakul, Faces Challenges Ahead

Anutin Charnvirakul, the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, was elected as the new prime minister of Thailand on August 29, 2025, following the removal of Paetongtarn Shinawatra by the Constitutional Court the day prior.

Known for his ability to build coalitions, Anutin secured 311 parliamentary votes to become the prime minister, defeating his rival. This success is evidenced by his negotiations with the People's Party, a reformist group that shares some of his political ideals.

Anutin's political career is marked by a transition from the Thai Rak Thai Party to leadership of Bhumjaithai Party. He brings a reputation of pragmatism and coalition-building to his role as prime minister.

However, Anutin's administration faces a challenging political landscape. The country has been plagued by judicial interventions, recurring instability, and public disillusionment with the Shinawatra dynasty. As part of an agreement with the People's Party, Anutin agreed to dissolve Parliament within four months.

Anutin is also known for his role in legalizing cannabis in 2022, a move that earned him the nickname "cannabis king." Beyond his political prowess, Anutin is a versatile figure with a background in business and engineering, and he is also known for his love of karaoke and cooking.

The specific roots of the political crisis in Thailand prior to Anutin's election as prime minister are not specified in the provided text. However, it is clear that the election of Anutin Charnvirakul as prime minister marks the third person to hold the position within a two-year span.

Anutin's success in leading the country will depend on his ability to navigate a fragile political landscape and succeed where others have faltered. His minority coalition government must quickly navigate a path towards stability by leveraging promised elections and reforms amid economic and social pressures.

As Thailand enters a new era of leadership, the nation watches with bated breath to see how Anutin Charnvirakul will steer the ship of state.

Read also: