Thailand's Parliament Dissolved Ahead of General Election
Date
3/20/2023 8:06:43 AM
(MENAFN) Thailand's parliament has been dissolved as the country prepares for a general election in May. King Maha Vajiralongkorn signed an order for dissolution, paving the way for a fiercely contested battle for power in the country. The current parliament's four-year term is set to end on Thursday, and a date for the vote has not yet been finalized, but it must be held within 60 days of dissolution.
The election will be a showdown between the United Thai Nation Party of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, a former military general, and the Pheu Thai party led by Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Paetongtarn, the daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who was ousted in a military coup in 2006, and the niece of Yingluck Shinawatra, who was deposed in a 2014 coup led by Prayut.
The Move Forward Party, led by businessman and politician Pita Limjaroenrat, is also in contention. Recent polls show Paetongtarn leading the race for the post of prime minister, followed by Pita and Prayut. Her party is confident of securing a majority of the 500 seats up for grabs.
The upcoming election is expected to be fiercely contested, with the country divided over issues such as democratic rights, economic policy, and the role of the military in politics. The military has played a significant role in Thai politics, with repeated coups and military governments over the years.
The dissolution of parliament marks a significant step in the lead-up to the election and sets the stage for a heated campaign season. The outcome of the election will have a significant impact on the future direction of the country, as well as on regional politics in Southeast Asia. The election will be closely watched by the international community, including neighboring countries and major global powers such as the US and China.
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