Anutin Charnvirakul Becomes Thailand’s New Prime Minister

Bangkok, September 5, 2025: In a significant political development in Thailand, Anutin Charnvirakul, a veteran politician and leader of the Bhumjaithai party, has been elected as the country’s new Prime Minister. According to reports from the Associated Press (AP), Charnvirakul secured over 247 votes in the House of Representatives, surpassing the majority needed in Thailand’s 492-member Parliament.

This election comes amid a period of political uncertainty following the dismissal of the previous Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who served for just one year before being removed from office.

Parliamentary Vote Confirms New Leadership

Anutin Charnvirakul’s election was confirmed through a vote in Thailand’s House of Representatives on September 5. The unofficial tally, broadcast live on Thai television, showed that he received the support of over 247 members, ensuring a clear majority.

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While these results are yet to be officially certified, it is expected that Charnvirakul and his cabinet will formally assume office after receiving royal approval from King Maha Vajiralongkorn. In Thailand, the monarch’s formal endorsement is a constitutional requirement for the appointment of the Prime Minister.

Why a New Prime Minister Was Needed

The appointment of a new Prime Minister was triggered by the dismissal of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, a member of the Pheu Thai party. The court found Shinawatra guilty of ethics violations, leading to her removal from office last week.

Shinawatra’s term lasted only one year, and her exit followed a controversial incident involving a phone call with Cambodia’s Senate President Hun Sen. This phone conversation created diplomatic tensions and escalated into a brief five-day armed conflict between Thailand and Cambodia in July 2025. The court determined that Shinawatra’s actions constituted an ethical breach, necessitating her dismissal.

Who Is Anutin Charnvirakul?

Anutin Charnvirakul, 58, is a well-known figure in Thai politics. He has held several important roles in the government, including serving as Health Minister during the COVID-19 pandemic. During his tenure, Charnvirakul faced criticism for delays in obtaining vaccines but also played a role in public health management during a challenging period.

Charnvirakul is widely recognized for his efforts in pushing for the decriminalization of cannabis in Thailand, a move that brought him considerable attention both nationally and internationally. His political career spans multiple administrations, including service under former Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha in a military-backed elected government.

In 2023, Charnvirakul was part of the coalition government led by the Pheu Thai party, which included Paetongtarn Shinawatra. However, he withdrew from the coalition and resigned from his ministerial position after public backlash over the leaked phone call incident that involved Shinawatra and Cambodia.

Political Background and Experience

Charnvirakul’s political journey is long and varied. He leads the Bhumjaithai party, a political party known for its pragmatic approach and coalition-building skills. Over the years, Charnvirakul has been involved in forming governments both in coalition with other parties and under military-backed administrations.

His experience in navigating complex political landscapes makes him a prominent figure in Thailand’s politics. The 2023 general elections saw him among the five eligible candidates for the Prime Minister position under Thailand’s constitutional rules. His ability to negotiate and maintain alliances played a crucial role in his election as Prime Minister in 2025.

Challenges Ahead for the New Prime Minister

Charnvirakul takes office at a time of political tension and regional concerns. The recent conflict with Cambodia has highlighted the delicate nature of Thailand’s foreign relations. His government will need to prioritize diplomatic engagement to prevent further tensions in the region.

Domestically, Charnvirakul faces challenges such as economic recovery, public health management, and social reforms. Thailand’s political landscape has been marked by frequent changes in leadership, and Charnvirakul will need to ensure stability while managing expectations from coalition partners, opposition parties, and the public.

Key Achievements and Public Image

Anutin Charnvirakul is best known for two major contributions during his political career. First, his advocacy for the decriminalization of cannabis, which positioned Thailand as one of the few Asian nations to adopt a progressive approach toward cannabis use. Second, his role during the COVID-19 pandemic, where he oversaw health policies and vaccine distribution, despite criticism regarding delays.

His public image is that of a pragmatic and experienced politician who can navigate coalition politics effectively. While his tenure in government has not been free from controversy, Charnvirakul’s ability to adapt and maintain influence across different administrations has solidified his position in Thai politics.

What Comes Next?

Following the parliamentary vote, Anutin Charnvirakul will formally be appointed by King Maha Vajiralongkorn. Once sworn in, he will lead Thailand’s government and oversee both domestic and international policies. The transition marks an important moment in Thailand’s political history, as the country moves forward after the sudden dismissal of Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

Observers anticipate that Charnvirakul will prioritize coalition stability, public welfare, and economic growth while addressing the diplomatic issues that arose from the recent conflict with Cambodia. His experience and political acumen will be closely watched by both national and international audiences.

Anutin Charnvirakul’s election as Thailand’s Prime Minister marks a new chapter in the country’s political landscape. With over 247 votes in Parliament, he has secured a clear majority and is poised to assume office after royal approval.

Charnvirakul inherits a government facing domestic challenges and international scrutiny. His previous experience in health management, coalition politics, and legal reforms, including cannabis decriminalization, positions him to lead Thailand through a critical period of governance.

As Thailand welcomes its new Prime Minister, the nation and the international community will be observing how Charnvirakul navigates the challenges ahead, balancing public expectations, political alliances, and diplomatic responsibilities.