Thailand’s caretaker PM Anutin Charnvirakul will be his party’s candidate in the February election, aiming to capitalise on nationalist sentiment.
BANGKOK: Thailand’s caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has been selected by his party to stand as its candidate for premier in a general election scheduled for early February.
The Bhumjaithai party leader described the February 8 poll as “the most consequential” for the conservative outfit since its formation in 2008.
“Today we are sure and ready to enter the election race to serve Thailand and its people,” Anutin told party members and supporters.
He stated that key ministers would retain their roles if his government is re-elected, including the finance, foreign, and commerce ministers.
Anutin could benefit from a wave of nationalism arising from an ongoing border conflict with Cambodia, which reignited during his tenure.
Analysts, however, suggest the election may be close and grant no clear majority to any single party.
In a recent nationwide survey, Bhumjaithai is polling at 9.92%, placing it fourth among major competing parties.
The same survey indicated that roughly 32.36% of voters remain undecided, leaving room for the party to gain support.
Bhumjaithai came third in the 2023 election and joined a Pheu Thai-led ruling coalition before withdrawing its support in June.
The party’s withdrawal followed a leaked phone call between then-Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and former Cambodian leader Hun Sen.
Paetongtarn was later dismissed by the Constitutional Court in August, paving the way for Anutin’s ascent.
Anutin, a savvy political operator, secured the top job through a parliamentary vote in September after striking a deal with the opposition People’s Party.
That agreement collapsed earlier this month, triggering the snap election scheduled for February.
