Anutin Charnvirakul Triumphs in Parliamentary Vote
Thailand’s Parliament elected Anutin Charnvirakul—leader of the Bhumjaithai Party—as the new prime minister on September 5, 2025, marking the third person to hold the position within a two-year span. The vote comes following the removal of Paetongtarn Shinawatra by the Constitutional Court.
From Cannabis Crusader to National Leader
Known for his signature role in legalizing cannabis in 2022, Anutin brings a reputation of pragmatism and coalition-building. He secured 311 parliamentary votes to his rival’s defeat, and agreed to dissolve Parliament within four months as part of an agreement with the reformist People’s Party.
Political Upheaval: Roots of the Crisis
The catalyst for today’s change was the Constitutional Court’s dismissal of Paetongtarn on August 29, following an ethics breach linked to a leaked call with Cambodia’s Hun Sen. Her removal triggered weeks of political instability, coalition collapse, and caretaker governance under Phumtham Wechayachai.
Who Is the New PM?
- Veteran Politician & Pragmatist: Anutin’s political acumen spans decades—from the Thai Rak Thai Party to leadership of Bhumjaithai. He’s viewed as a bridge between conservative royalists and populist factions.
- Coalition Builder: Harnessed support from the People’s Party with a promise of elections and constitutional reform.
- Characteristic Profile: Dubbed the “cannabis king,” Anutin is also known for his love of karaoke and cooking, and possesses a business and engineering background.
Implications and Challenges Ahead
Anutin steps into a fragile political landscape rife with judicial interventions, recurring instability, and public disillusionment with the Shinawatra dynasty. His administration, dependent on a minority coalition, must quickly chart a path toward stability—leveraging promised elections and reforms amid economic and social pressures. Will his pragmatic approach succeed where others have faltered?
