Thailand’s political future is in flux after the Constitutional Court removed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on August 29. The opposition People’s Party, with 143 parliamentary seats, has emerged as the decisive player in selecting the country’s next leader, according to Khaosod English. 

Bhumjaithai Party chief Anutin Charnvirakul, 58, quickly positioned himself as a contender, declaring readiness to become Thailand’s 32nd Prime Minister. 

He immediately sought the People’s Party’s backing, agreeing to its central demand that parliament be dissolved within four months. The People’s Party has made clear it will support any candidate who commits to this condition, though it refuses to join a coalition government.

Meanwhile, the ruling Pheu Thai Party is struggling to retain power. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai convened an emergency cabinet meeting, while party negotiators put forward veteran politician Chaikasem Nitisiri, 76, as a compromise candidate. Pheu Thai has promised an accelerated constitutional drafting process and a swift dissolution of parliament if the timetable is met.

The parliamentary balance has shifted dramatically. With 143 seats, the People’s Party now forms the largest bloc, surpassing Pheu Thai’s 140. Both major parties are competing intensely for its support. Behind the scenes, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been in talks with People’s Party adviser Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, though Thanathorn insists the party’s stance remains firm: early dissolution and a constitutional referendum are non-negotiable.

Anutin has also reached out to former coalition partners disillusioned with Pheu Thai, including the Kla Dharma Party and sections of the United Thai Nation Party. Tensions between Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai have intensified, particularly after investigations into alleged Senate vote-buying involving factions close to Bhumjaithai, as well as disputes over land deals.

The People’s Party, successor to the dissolved Move Forward Party, now faces a strategic choice. It can support Pheu Thai’s proposal for gradual reform and constitutional changes, or throw its weight behind Anutin in a move that could be seen as retaliation for Pheu Thai’s previous refusal to ally with it.

Party leader Nattaphong Ruangpanyawut confirmed the party will decide on September 1. Whatever the outcome, analysts suggest fresh elections within four to six months are inevitable.