Thai PM election sees stunning turn of events

Result of the latest Matichon-Daily News poll

Behind this seemingly unfamiliar name lies the most legendary family in Thai politics—the Shinawatra family. As the nephew of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and the cousin of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Yodchanan’s sudden rise has completely disrupted the plans of incumbent Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.

Political analysts point out that Anutin’s decision to call a general election in advance was a major strategic miscalculation. He had hoped to secure a quick victory amid the opposition’s disarray but underestimated the political resilience of the Shinawatra family and the voters’ desire for a change.

An election campaign by the Pheu Thai Party goes on in Thailand.

As the election day of February 8 approaches, the political contest in Thailand is intensifying. Yodchanan’s unexpected rise has reshaped the electoral landscape, transforming the anticipated showdown between the People’s Party and the Bhumjaithai Party into a direct contest between the Pheu Thai Party and the People’s Party.

This general election will determine the future direction of Thai politics. Whether it will see the Shinawatra family, representing traditional familial politics, return to power; the People’s Party, representing reformist forces, achieve a breakthrough; or incumbent Prime Minister Anutin stage a dramatic comeback—all answers will begin to unfold in early February.

A Thai voting station

Source: Thai Enquirer and Baidu; Trans-editing by Wang Shixue