Thailand’s King approves Anutin Charnvirakul as prime minister

Thailand’s King approves Anutin Charnvirakul as prime minister

Title: Thailand’s King Approves Anutin Charnvirakul as Prime Minister

On September 2, 2025, Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn approved the appointment of Anutin Charnvirakul as the country's 32nd Prime Minister. The approval comes after Anutin secured a majority vote in the Thai Parliament on September 5, 2025 [1].

Anutin, the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, received 311 votes in favor, surpassing the majority threshold required in the House of Representatives. His victory was supported by a diverse range of political factions, including the opposition People's Party, which conditionally backed his bid for premiership [2].

Anutin's political career spans over two decades, with notable roles as Health Minister during the COVID-19 pandemic and Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister under Paetongtarn Shinawatra. His tenure as Health Minister was marked by his advocacy for the decriminalization of cannabis, a policy that aimed to provide a new cash crop for farmers in the northeastern region of Thailand [2].

The new Prime Minister's appointment follows the dismissal of Paetongtarn Shinawatra by the Constitutional Court, who ruled that she had violated ethical standards. Anutin's appointment is expected to bring stability to the Thai government, with the People's Party demanding that he dissolve the House of Representatives within four months after delivering his policy statement, paving the way for a general election [1].

Anutin's approval as Prime Minister highlights the shifting political landscape in Thailand, with the diminished influence of the Shinawatra family and the rise of new political forces. The appointment of Anutin Charnvirakul marks a significant moment in Thailand's political history, and his leadership will be crucial in navigating the country's economic and social challenges.

References:
[1] https://www.usasean.org/article/thailand-parliamentary-vote-outcome-anutin-charnvirakul-elected-prime-minister
[2] https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/cannabis-king-thailand-pm-anutin-charnvirakul-10234036/
[3] https://apnews.com/article/thailand-parliament-prime-minister-vote-23b2afb9bf815d918e11a47a33973ce3