FX.co ★ Thailand Parliament to Vote on New Prime Minister Friday

Thailand's House of Representatives is set to vote for a new prime minister on Friday, as announced by House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha. This decision comes after the Privy Council reportedly rejected a draft royal decree intended to dissolve the House, highlighting procedural and legal issues raised by acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The Privy Council, an advisory entity to the monarchy, is crucial in reviewing royal documents to ensure they align with constitutional requirements. The forthcoming vote could enable Anutin Charnvirakul, the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, to establish a government supported by the 143-member People's Party, which holds the largest number of seats in parliament. However, this backing is contingent upon strict conditions: the new prime minister must dissolve the House within four months after presenting their policy statement, prompting a general election and possibly leading to a referendum on constitutional reforms.