Thai PM Paetongtarn Ousted, Anutin Seeks Leadership Amid Political Deadlock

Thailand is experiencing a significant political crisis following the Constitutional Court's removal of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra over an ethics violation related to a border dispute with Cambodia. Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party and former health minister known for legalizing cannabis, has emerged as the frontrunner to become the country's next prime minister by securing a coalition with seven parties, including the progressive opposition People’s Party, which supports new elections within four months. Anutin's political rise is marked by his appeal to conservative voters and his break from the Shinawatra-aligned Pheu Thai party, which is struggling with declining popularity and internal challenges. The political deadlock has triggered competing bids for power, with the Pheu Thai party backing Chaikasem Nitisiri as an alternative candidate to maintain influence, while Anutin capitalizes on support from the opposition and conservative factions. The crisis underscores Thailand’s fragile democracy amid shifting alliances, military influence, and public dissatisfaction with the established political order. A parliamentary vote on the new prime minister could occur imminently, with the country's future governance hanging in the balance.