While the 2026 Thai elections were marked by a win by conservative elements, the situation in the Upper South was marked by the lack of a hegemon among conservative parties.
Author Archives: yeosiewhan
Myanmar’s “Election” Reveals Hairline Cracks in Military Rule
A closer look at the vote raises doubts about whether the generals can hold the country hostage in the long term.
Vietnam’s Gaza Board of Peace Gambit: To Lam’s Confident New Foreign Policy
Vietnam’s decision to join the Trump-led Gaza Board of Peace speaks less about its Middle East policy and more about its evolving foreign policy.
Anwar is Weak, But the Opposition is Weaker Still
The political woes of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is a political goldmine for the opposition. But it has failed to capitalise on the opportunity.
Rebranding Bhumjaithai
Putting heavyweight technocrats in the spotlight, the Bhumjaithai Party appears to have taken a technocrat turn, away from its traditional strengths in forging political family networks in the kingdom.
Thailand’s Democrat Party: A Political Institution Survives
The Democrat Party has made a comeback from a near-death experience. But there are still key challenges to overcome.
Indonesia’s Party Cartel System and the New ‘People’s Movement Party’
There’s potentially a new party in town, if it’s not nipped in the bud before the next elections in Indonesia.
Myanmar’s Foreign Exchange Shortages Have Eased, But Challenges Remain
The military regime’s efforts to conserve and tap new sources of foreign exchange have improved its financial situation. This benefits the regime and some businesses, though comes at a cost: increased military action, continued trade restrictions, and a depressed economy.
Thailand’s “Conservative” Turn?
The victory of the Bhumjaithai Party in the recent Thai elections does not necessarily signal a broad-based shift towards conservative elements.
Malaysia’s Opposition: The Need to Close Ranks
To mount a creditable challenge to the ruling coalition, Malaysia’s opposition coalition needs to overcome a list of obstacles, foremost among them infighting within the grouping.