Voters in Thailand went to the polls Sunday in an early general election seen as a three-way race among competing visions of progressive, populist and old-fashioned patronage politics.
The battle for support from 53 million registered voters comes against a backdrop of slow economic growth and heightened nationalist sentiment. While more than 50 parties are contesting the polls, only three – the People’s Party, Bhumjaithai, and Pheu Thai – have the nationwide organisation and popularity to gain a winning mandate.
A simple majority of the 500 elected lawmakers selects the next prime minister.
No outright winner expected
Local polls consistently project that no single party will gain a majority, necessitating the formation of a coalition government.
Although the progressive People’s Party is seen as favoured to win a plurality, its reformist politics aren’t shared by its leading rivals, which may freeze it out by joining forces to form a government.
The People’s Party, led by …Voters in Thailand went to the polls Sunday in an early general election seen as a three-way race among competing visions of progressive, populist and old-fashioned patronage politics.
The battle for support from 53 million registered voters comes against a backdrop of slow economic growth and heightened nationalist sentiment. While more than 50 parties are contesting the polls, only three – the People’s Party, Bhumjaithai, and Pheu Thai – have the nationwide organisation and popularity to gain a winning mandate.
A simple majority of the 500 elected lawmakers selects the next prime minister.
No outright winner expected
Local polls consistently project that no single party will gain a majority, necessitating the formation of a coalition government.
Although the progressive People’s Party is seen as favoured to win a plurality, its reformist politics aren’t shared by its leading rivals, which may freeze it out by joining forces to form a government.
The People’s Party, led by … Latest News [ SOBAN NEWS: International and National ]
