Anutin Charnvirakul has officially taken office as Thailand’s new prime minister after receiving royal endorsement from King Maha Vajiralongkorn on Sunday.
The conservative leader replaces Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who was removed from office by the Constitutional Court in late August for breaching ministerial ethics.
The court ruled against her after a leaked call revealed close ties with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen and disparaging remarks about a Thai military commander, following tensions at the border.
Anutin secured the premiership with the backing of the opposition People’s Party, which holds the largest bloc in parliament.
Their support came with the condition that fresh elections will be called within four months. Despite this, the People’s Party has declined to formally join his government, leaving Anutin to lead a minority administration.
At 58, Anutin is already a familiar face in Thai politics, having served as deputy prime minister, interior minister, and health minister.
He is particularly known for spearheading the 2022 cannabis decriminalization policy, as well as managing Thailand’s pandemic response.
His term began with a formal ceremony at the headquarters of his Bhumjaithai Party in Bangkok, where the royal order endorsing his appointment was read aloud.
Once a political ally of the Shinawatras, Anutin broke ties with Pheu Thai this summer and successfully built support for his own leadership bid.
His appointment marks Thailand’s third prime minister in just two years, signaling continuing volatility in the country’s political landscape.