Thai elections: Voting done, now more politics

IN THAILAND’s general elections on Sunday (May 14), the popular preference of some 50 million voters was clear, choosing reformist pro-democracy parties over those led by former generals. But Thai constitutional arrangements are complex, as is the influence of the establishment and the military. Even as vote winners celebrate in the spotlight, intense politicking will be ongoing behind the scenes.

Companies and investors in the country should be watchful at this important juncture in Thailand’s economic recovery. Possibilities swirl about who will form the next government, and there is the risk of continuing uncertainty, with contestation and possible conflict.

Clear vote, constitutional complexity

The pro-democracy parties – Move Forward and Pheu Thai – are clearly the people’s choice in the contest for the 500 seats in the House of Representatives. But there is also the 250-seat Senate which also counts in the vote for the next leader. Taken together, there are 750 votes, requiring a majority of at least 376.