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Thailand's government party advocates for parliament's dismantling

Thailand's current administration aims to disband the parliament following the backing of a significant political alliance for a rival contender. The parliament's dismantling is contingent upon the Thai monarch's accord.

Thailand's governing party initiates steps to disband Parliament
Thailand's governing party initiates steps to disband Parliament

Thailand's government party advocates for parliament's dismantling

Thailand is on the brink of a potential political shift as the race for a new prime minister heats up. The current political turmoil stems from the dissolution of the parliament, which is being sought by the ruling party, the People's Party, due to ongoing political tensions and demands for new elections to resolve governance issues.

The People's Party, which controls nearly a third of lower house seats, has withdrawn its support from the Pheu Thai party and is backing Anutin Charnvirakul, a former deputy prime minister and interior minister, for the top position.

Anutin Charnvirakul, who championed cannabis legalization during his stint as health minister in 2022, has the support of 146 lawmakers from seven groups and parties. His bid for the prime ministership is, however, conditional on him dissolving the House of Representatives within four months.

The Bhumjaithai leader has committed to the conditions set by the People's Party, indicating a potential shift in political alliances. The People's Party leader, Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, has expressed concern about the potential return of the old coalition and the coup maker as prime minister. The old coalition refers to a political coalition that has failed to run the country effectively in the last two years, while the coup maker refers to Prayuth Chan-ocha, a general who seized power in 2014.

The dismissal of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra by the Constitutional Court last week was over her handling of a border dispute with Cambodia. A parliamentary vote on a new prime minister could take place on Friday, according to the People's Party leader. The timeline for the election is within 45 to 60 days after the royal assent.

The dissolution of parliament will lead to new elections, which could bring about significant changes in Thailand's political landscape. The People's Party's concern about the potential return of the old coalition and the coup maker as prime minister suggests political instability in Thailand.

As the race for the prime ministership heats up, the people of Thailand await the outcome of the parliamentary vote with bated breath. The decision could have far-reaching implications for the future of the country.

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