Prime Minister Anutin Charnavirakul has claimed victory in Thailand's general election, with preliminary vote counts putting his ruling conservatives well ahead of their rivals.
Anutin stated that his success belonged to all Thais, no matter whether you voted for us or not, as his party's results defied pre-election opinion polls that had favored the reformist People's Party.
With 90% of votes counted, Anutin's Bhumjaithai party appears set to win 194 seats in Bangkok's 500-seat parliament, significantly ahead of the People's Party with 116 seats. People's Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut acknowledged the outcome, saying he was prepared to serve in opposition if Anutin forms a government.
The election follows a recent collapse of Anutin's coalition after just three months in power. Although no party is projected to achieve an overall majority, Anutin is likely to maintain leadership, with Bhumjaithai expected to more than double its previous electoral success.
This unexpected result shocked the People's Party, which had anticipated improving on their winning performance from three years ago. Anutin's success was bolstered by a campaign emphasizing nationalism and local alliances, appealing particularly to traditional values and economic support.
In addition to voting in general elections, citizens also participated in a referendum regarding reforms to the 2017 constitution, with early tallies suggesting considerable support for the changes.
