Thai PM claims election victory as Conservatives Take Commanding Lead

Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnavirakul has declared victory in the country’s general election, as early results show his ruling conservative Bhumjaithai party emerging clearly ahead of its rivals in a result that has surprised many observers.

Speaking after the release of preliminary vote counts, Anutin said the outcome belonged to “all Thais, no matter whether you voted for us or not,” striking a conciliatory tone as his party outperformed expectations. Opinion polls ahead of the election had widely suggested a strong showing for the reformist People’s Party, but the early figures have instead placed the conservatives firmly in front.

With nearly 90% of ballots counted, Bhumjaithai is projected to win 194 seats in the 500-seat parliament in Bangkok, putting it well ahead of the People’s Party, which is forecast to secure 115 seats. While no single party is expected to gain an outright majority, the scale of Bhumjaithai’s lead places Anutin in a strong position as coalition negotiations begin.

People’s Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut appeared to acknowledge the outcome, saying he was prepared to serve in opposition should Anutin succeed in forming a government. His comments signalled an acceptance of the result and a willingness to contribute constructively to Thailand’s political future from outside power.

The election was held after a period of prolonged political instability, during which several coalition governments collapsed and the country saw three prime ministers in as many years. Against that backdrop, the apparent return of Anutin and his party offers the prospect of greater continuity and a clearer path forward for governance.

Thai elections are often difficult to predict, and this contest proved no exception. The result represents a significant disappointment for the People’s Party, which had hoped to build on its strong performance three years ago. Expectations of an “orange wave” driven by young, idealistic candidates did not materialise in the way many supporters had anticipated.

Instead, voters appeared to favour Anutin’s pragmatic conservative platform, pushing the reformist movement into second place. The People’s Party, which won the most seats in the 2023 election but was ultimately blocked from taking power, will now remain in opposition, where it is expected to continue advocating for reform within the parliamentary system.

Importantly, the outcome has eased fears of a potential political crisis. Had the reformists won again and once more been prevented from forming a government, tensions could have escalated sharply. By contrast, the current result provides a clearer and more straightforward transition toward coalition talks and government formation