Thailand's Political Parties Name Prime Minister Candidates for February Election

Dec 29, 2025, 2:18 AM

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Political parties in Thailand have officially registered their candidates for the upcoming general election, which is scheduled for February 8, 2026. This marks the unofficial start of the election campaign, as parties prepare to vie for control of the House of Representatives.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who leads the Bhumjaithai Party, is among the candidates. He recently dissolved Parliament to call for early elections, a move that allows his party to strengthen its position in the House following a previous no-confidence vote threat from the opposition.

The election will also feature a referendum where voters will decide whether to support a new constitution. This initiative is backed by progressive parties that argue the current political structure favors unelected bureaucrats and is undemocratic.

The political landscape is primarily characterized by a contest between Anutin's conservative Bhumjaithai Party and the progressive People's Party. The latter, which previously won the most seats in the 2023 election, was unable to form a government due to opposition from conservative lawmakers.

Another significant player in the election is the Pheu Thai Party, which is supported by billionaire former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Despite Thaksin's imprisonment for corruption, he remains a pivotal figure in the party's strategy.

Anutin's government has faced challenges, including a decline in popularity due to recent flooding and scandals involving officials. However, he has attempted to regain support by adopting a more aggressive military stance amid ongoing border disputes with Cambodia.

The Election Commission reported that 68 candidates from 32 parties have registered for the prime ministerial position. Additionally, over 3,000 candidates are competing for direct election in constituencies, with Bangkok seeing the highest number of applicants.

Each party can propose up to three candidates for prime minister. The Bhumjaithai Party has nominated Anutin and veteran diplomat Sihasak Phuangketkeow as a backup.

The People's Party, led by Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, has vowed not to support Anutin or Sihasak, emphasizing its commitment to a reformist agenda that includes seeking amnesty for political prisoners.

The Pheu Thai Party has nominated Yodchanan Wongsawat, a 46-year-old candidate, as its main contender for the prime ministerial role.

As the election approaches, the political atmosphere in Thailand remains charged, with various parties positioning themselves to appeal to voters amid ongoing debates about constitutional reform and the role of the monarchy in governance.

The upcoming election is crucial for shaping Thailand's political future, as it will determine the composition of the House of Representatives and the direction of the country's governance in the coming years.

With the registration process now complete, the focus will shift to campaign strategies and voter engagement as parties seek to secure their place in Thailand's evolving political landscape.

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