Thailand’s election on Sunday saw a stunning victory for the progressive Move Forward Party, led by Pita Limjaroenrat. The 42-year-old Harvard graduate promised to undo the military’s grip on Thai politics and revise a law that criminalizes criticism of the monarchy. However, his path to prime minister remains uncertain as he needs to gather enough support in the 500-member House of Representatives to overcome a 250-member, military-appointed Senate.
Mr. Pita has promised to reset Thailand’s foreign policy, saying the country would “not be part of the Chinese umbrella or the American umbrella,” but will have the ability to determine its own destiny. He also wants to have a comprehensive discussion in Parliament about what the role of the monarchy in a constitutional democracy should be in modern Thailand.
Thais are now waiting to see if their choice will be allowed to lead or if he will be blocked from becoming prime minister by prevailing powers, an outcome that could plunge the country into political chaos.