Historic elections in Thailand: pro-democracy opposition way ahead

According to preliminary results, the pro-democracy opposition parties are well ahead after Thailand’s parliamentary elections. The progressive Move Forward party and reformist Pheu Thai party came together on some 60 percent of the vote late at night (local time) after counting some 70 percent of ballots, calculations by the election commission. If they form a coalition and gain support from smaller parties, they could potentially bring about power transition in Bangkok and oust the incumbent prime minister and one-time coup general, Prayut Chan-o-cha.

“It’s time for change in Thailand,” says Move Forward boss Pita Limjaroenrat (42). Cooperation between the current opposition parties is the perfect way to tackle the country’s challenges.

Although Prayut Chan-o-cha fell far behind with his United Thai Nation Party, the 69-year-old was able to stay in power. After the military coup of 2014, the generals changed the constitution in their favor: together with the 500 newly elected members of parliament, 250 unelected senators appointed by the army also decide on the future head of government. It is considered unlikely that they would support an opposition candidate.

On Sunday, 52 million eligible voters were called to the polls. Political observers say there are signs of protracted coalition negotiations in the kingdom, where the opposition will have to try to secure a majority of 376 votes without the senators. The Electoral Commission must announce the official final result within 60 days. (sda/dpa)