Thailand votes amid deep divide between reformists and conservatives
Thailand has voted in an early general election triggered by the collapse of successive coalition governments, a cycle of instability that has produced three prime ministers in just three years. As in the 2023 election, the contest has largely centred on a familiar divide: reformists calling for sweeping political change versus conservative forces determined to preserve the existing power structure. On one side is the People’s Party, which has led opinion polls and advocates deep reforms. On the other is incumbent Prime Minister Anutin Charnavirakul, heading the conservative Bhumjaithai (“Thai Pride”) Party. Polling stations closed nationwide on Sunday, with official results expected around 22:00 local time (15:00 GMT). No single party is expected to secure an outright parliamentary majority. Reformists versus the establishment The key question looming over the election is whether the People’s Party can translate its popularity into […]