Thailand’s ruling Bhumjaithai party tops election amid wave of nationalism • FRANCE 24 English

Key Concepts

• Bhumjaithai Party: The conservative party that won the most votes in the Thai general election.
• Pheu Thai Party: The party that came in second, linked to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.
• Progressive Movement/Progressive People’s Party: The opposition party that conceded defeat.
• Anutin Charnvirakul: Leader of the Bhumjaithai Party and current caretaker premier.
• Thaksin Shinawatra: Founder of the Pheu Thai Party, currently imprisoned on corruption charges.
• Thai-Cambodian Border Dispute: A key issue in the election, linked to a surge in nationalism.
• Coalition Government: The likely outcome of the election, requiring negotiation between parties.

Election Results and Initial Reactions

The recent general election in Thailand saw a significant victory for the Bhumjaithai Party, securing the highest number of votes. Anutin Charnvirakul, the party’s leader and current caretaker premier, acknowledged the support of voters, stating, “We owe our voters a fortune and we will only repay them by working at our utmost to bring all the good things to them and to our country.” This statement underscores the party’s commitment to fulfilling its promises to the electorate. The Progressive People’s Party conceded defeat, trailing considerably behind Bhumjaithai. The Pua Thai Party finished in third place and is considered a potential coalition partner. The responsibility to lead government formation rests with the party that garnered the most votes – Bhumjaithai.

Pheu Thai Party and Thaksin Shinawatra’s Influence

The Pheu Thai Party’s campaign was heavily influenced by its connection to Thaksin Shinawatra, the party’s founder and a former Prime Minister currently serving a one-year prison sentence for corruption. The party’s lead candidate in the election was Thaksin’s nephew. Political analysts anticipate a potential early release for Thaksin, potentially linked to a broader political agreement following the election. This expectation highlights the continued influence of Thaksin Shinawatra on Thai politics, even from imprisonment.

The Impact of Nationalism and the Border Dispute

A significant factor contributing to Bhumjaithai’s success appears to be a surge in nationalism, directly linked to the ongoing border dispute with Cambodia. The conflict, which escalated into open fighting in July and December of the previous year, resulted in the displacement of approximately 1 million people. This dispute became a central issue for many voters. The alliance between Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai dissolved due to a scandal connected to this border dispute, potentially impacting voter perceptions. Analysts suggest that Anutin Charnvirakul benefited from this wave of nationalism, propelling his party to victory.

Coalition Formation and Future Outlook

The election results necessitate the formation of a coalition government. While Bhumjaithai holds the primary responsibility for leading this process, the Pua Thai Party is viewed as a likely partner. Pheu Thai representatives affirmed their commitment to serving the people, regardless of their ultimate role in the new government, stating, “As for Pu Thai, regardless of the role we play, we will work for the people to the best of our strengths and ability.” The specifics of the coalition agreement and the potential release of Thaksin Shinawatra remain key developments to watch in the coming weeks.

Technical Terms

• Caretaker Premier: A temporary leader who governs until a new government is formed after an election.
• Coalition Government: A government formed by multiple political parties joining forces.
• Concession (of defeat): A formal acknowledgement of losing an election.

Synthesis

The Thai general election resulted in an unexpected win for the conservative Bhumjaithai Party, fueled by a surge in nationalism linked to the Thai-Cambodian border dispute. The election’s outcome necessitates coalition negotiations, with the Pua Thai Party emerging as a likely partner. The continued influence of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, despite his imprisonment, remains a significant factor in Thai politics, with expectations of a potential early release tied to political agreements. The formation of a stable and effective government will depend on successful coalition building and addressing the underlying issues that resonated with voters, particularly the border dispute and nationalistic sentiment.