Fri Sep 05 09:18:19 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Thailand’s parliament has elected Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai party, as the new Prime Minister following the removal of Paetongtarn Shinawatra due to ethical violations. Anutin secured support by promising to dissolve parliament within four months, gaining backing from the opposition People’s Party and several other parties. Anutin’s background includes previous roles as Deputy Prime Minister, Health Minister (during the COVID-19 pandemic), and Interior Minister. He is known for his role in liberalizing cannabis laws and his ties to both the monarchy and business elites.

**News Article:**

**Anutin Charnvirakul Elected as Thailand’s New Prime Minister**

**BANGKOK, September 5, 2025 (The Hindu) -** Thailand’s political landscape has shifted once again with the election of Anutin Charnvirakul, the 58-year-old leader of the Bhumjaithai party, as the country’s new Prime Minister. The move comes after last week’s dramatic dismissal of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who was ousted by the Constitutional Court for ethical breaches.

Anutin, previously Deputy Prime Minister in the Pheu Thai-led coalition, secured the premiership by garnering support from a diverse array of political factions, including the opposition People’s Party. In exchange for their backing, Anutin has pledged to dissolve parliament within the next four months, paving the way for potential new elections.

“I am honored and humbled by the trust placed in me,” Anutin stated in a brief address to parliament following the vote. “I am committed to serving the people of Thailand and working towards a stable and prosperous future.”

Anutin’s political career began with Thai Rak Thai, the party founded by Paetongtarn’s father, Thaksin Shinawatra. He has held several ministerial positions, including Deputy Health Minister and Interior Minister. As Health Minister during the COVID-19 pandemic, he oversaw the nation’s response, including lockdowns and vaccine procurement, and is credited with reopening Thailand to foreign tourism. He is also well known for championing the liberalization of cannabis laws, a move that has proven controversial.

His ties to the monarchy and business elite make him a formidable figure in Thai politics. He’s also the heir to the Stecon Group, the family construction firm who built the parliament buildings in Bangkok. Anutin’s election signals a potential shift in Thailand’s political direction, with the promise of further developments in the months to come.

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