ARTICLES

New Thai PM Faces a Crisis of Confidence

Termsak Chalermpalanupap

As a political novice, Thailand’s new Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin is facing an uphill struggle to prove that he is the right man for the job. His political survival depends on support from his coalition partners – without which he risks being unseated in a no-confidence motion in the House of Representatives.

Pita (and the People) Versus the Powers that Be

Napon Jatusripitak

Pita Limjaroenrat has failed to secure approval as Thailand’s next prime minister. This underscores the stark reality: leaders in Thailand are not elected by the will of the people, but permitted to rise to power with the support or at least the acquiescence of the conservative establishment.

A Reflection on Thai Politics

Kasit Piromya

A former Thai foreign minister voices his hopes for the future of Thai democracy. It is not clear, however, that Thailand can strengthen its democracy through consensus-building if entrenched political forces continue to thwart the people’s wishes.