Thailand Gets New PM: Anutin Charnvirakul Vows to Tackle Economic Woes
Thailand has a new prime minister. Anutin Charnvirakul, a staunch royalist and leader of the conservative Bhumjaithai Party, was voted in after a special session in Parliament on Friday. He replaces Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who was removed by a court ruling last month.
Anutin, 67, is no stranger to Thai politics. He served as deputy prime minister for six years, health minister from 2019 to 2023, and interior minister until this year. His appointment came after negotiations with the opposition People's Party, which supported him in exchange for a promise to dissolve parliament and call new elections within four months.
Born into wealth as the heir to Sino-Thai, one of Thailand's largest construction firms, Anutin's political career has been marked by controversy. He led the campaign to legalize marijuana in Thailand, making it the first Asian country to fully decriminalize cannabis in 2022. However, his party is also known for its pro-military and pro-palace stance. Thailand faces significant challenges, including a soaring cost of living, border tensions with Cambodia, and threats from drug trafficking and scammers. The World Bank predicts the economy will grow by only 1.8% in 2025.
Anutin Charnvirakul begins his term as prime minister with a promise to address Thailand's pressing issues. His political acumen and experience in government will be crucial in navigating the complex challenges ahead. His appointment signals a shift in Thai politics, with the Bhumjaithai Party now at the helm, aiming to steer the country through troubled waters.
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