Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party and a key figure in Thailand’s push to decriminalize cannabis, has officially become the country’s new prime minister after receiving a royal endorsement from King Maha Vajiralongkorn on Sunday. The endorsement was read in a formal ceremony at the Bhumjaithai headquarters in Bangkok, where Anutin vowed to lead the nation with honesty and dedication.
His appointment comes just two days after Parliament elected him to succeed Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who was dismissed by the Constitutional Court over an ethics scandal involving a leaked phone call with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen. The incident triggered a five-day border clash in July that left dozens dead, further intensifying political instability in the country.
To secure his parliamentary mandate, Anutin struck an agreement with the reformist People’s Party, promising to dissolve Parliament and call for new elections within four months. He also pledged to initiate a referendum for drafting a new constitution through an elected constituent assembly. Despite supporting his rise to power, the People’s Party has chosen to remain in opposition, meaning Anutin will govern without a majority in Parliament.
Seeking to restore public trust and stabilize Thailand’s fragile political and economic environment, Anutin quickly announced his cabinet lineup. Veteran technocrats were named to critical portfolios, including Ekniti Nitithanprapas as finance minister, Auttapol Rerkpiboon as energy minister, and experienced diplomat Sihasak Phuangketkeow as foreign minister. These appointments signal a pragmatic approach aimed at boosting investor confidence and addressing regional tensions, particularly following the violent border conflict with Cambodia.
At 58, Anutin is no stranger to Thai politics, having previously served as deputy prime minister, interior minister, and health minister during the COVID-19 pandemic. He is widely recognized for spearheading cannabis decriminalization, though his career has also faced controversies, including allegations of Senate election manipulation and delays in vaccine procurement.
Anutin is now the third prime minister in just two years, following the removals of Srettha Thavisin and Paetongtarn Shinawatra under separate legal and ethical challenges.
As he assumes office, Anutin faces daunting tasks: reviving a sluggish economy, managing tense relations with neighboring Cambodia, and delivering on his promises of democratic reform. The coming months will determine whether his leadership can bring stability to a nation weary of political upheaval.