Anutin Charnvirakul Elected Thai Prime Minister

SEP 5·UPDATED SEP 5

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Above: Anutin Charnvirakul arrives at the parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, on Sept. 5, 2025. Image copyright: Dario Pignatelli/Bloomberg/Getty Images

The Spin

Narrative A

The leaked phone call scandal with Cambodia's Hun Sen exposed Paetongtarn's poor judgment and raised serious questions about her loyalty to Thailand's national interests. Anutin's election marks a necessary break from the chaos and incompetence that have plagued the Shinawatra administration, offering a path toward political renewal and stability in tumultuous times.

Nationthailand The Globe and Mail Outlook India

Narrative B

Despite winning the vote, Anutin enters office amid widespread concern. He leads a fragile minority government with backing from the People’s Party, yet without being part of it. His track record — marked by deal-making and royalist conservative ties — raises questions about genuine reform, while economic challenges and the cyclical ousting of leaders suggest continued instability ahead.

Financial Times Reuters The Straits Times

Narrative C

This parliamentary vote is another judicial coup against democratically elected leaders, continuing the establishment's systematic dismantling of popular governments. The Shinawatra family has repeatedly won elections through genuine popular support, yet faces constant persecution from conservative courts and military-backed institutions that refuse to accept the will of Thai voters.

BBC News Bangkokpost The Conversation