Global Courant 2023-04-15 06:44:07
Mr Prayut, a former army chief who seized power in 2014, has ruled Thailand for nearly a decade and is the leading candidate for prime minister from the conservative United Thai Nation Party.
He has a head start in the race as he is favored to receive the support of many of the 250 senators, whose votes will be key in choosing the next leader.
As junta leader, Prayut cracked down on dissidents, claiming he would restore peace and order after his coup ended months of street protests against then-Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, the sister of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra – whose term was also ended by a military takeover of power.
Mr. Prayut oversaw the royal succession of King Maha Vajiralongkorn at a critical time in Thailand’s history following the passing of much-loved King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who reigned for 70 years.
Prayut was chosen to stay on as prime minister after the 2019 election, when the conservative Palang Pracharath Party assembled an 18-party coalition to keep him in power.
He is known to have a temper and there were instances when he showed it publicly, including in the presence of journalists.
At the same time, he has composed several ballads about patriotism and unity, which depict him as an honest and misunderstood leader who will guide Thailand through troubled waters.
