Anutin Elected Thai Prime Minister Ending Political Crisis

Thailand's parliament elected Anutin Charnvirakul as the nation's next prime minister, marking the country's third leader since 2023 and potentially bringing a brief period of political calm. Anutin, a 58-year-old conservative construction magnate and leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, secured at least 250 votes, surpassing the 247 needed for victory, defeating Chaikasem Nitisiri, the candidate backed by the influential Shinawatra family. This leadership change follows the recent court-ordered removal of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, ending the Shinawatra family's dominance since the 2023 elections. Anutin has previously served as deputy prime minister, interior minister, and health minister, and is known for legalizing cannabis in 2022. The largest opposition bloc, the People's Party, supports Anutin's premiership but has conditioned backing on a promise for fresh elections within four months, highlighting ongoing political negotiations. The shift in power also saw Thaksin Shinawatra leaving the country ahead of the vote, underscoring the significant political upheaval in Thailand.