It was a historic choice for Thailand. For the first time since the 2014 coup, the opposition has a chance to replace the military in government. However, a constitutional clause could prevent this.
According to preliminary results, the pro-democracy opposition parties are well ahead after the parliamentary elections in Thailand.
The progressive Move Forward party and the reform-oriented Pheu Thai party together came to around 60 percent of the vote late in the evening (local time) after counting around 70 percent of the ballot papers, according to calculations by the election commission. If they form a coalition and gain support from smaller parties, they could potentially bring about the power transition in Bangkok and oust the incumbent prime minister and one-time coup general, Prayut Chan-o-cha.
“It’s time for a change in Thailand,” said Move Forward boss Pita Limjaroenrat (42). Cooperation between the current opposition parties is the perfect way to tackle the challenges facing the country.
Change of power is still unlikely
Though Prayut Chan-o-cha was far behind with his United Thai Nation Party, the 69-year-old could remain in power. Because after the military coup of 2014, the generals changed the constitution in their favor: together with the 500 newly elected MPs, 250 unelected senators appointed by the military also decide on the future head of government. It is considered unlikely that they would support an opposition candidate.
52 million eligible voters were called to the polls on Sunday. According to political observers, there are signs of long coalition negotiations in the kingdom, in which the opposition will have to try to get a majority of 376 votes without the senators. The electoral commission must announce the official final result within 60 days.
Source: Stern
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
