Thailand holds its breath as election approaches

The 2026 general election marks a pivotal moment in the nation's volatile political landscape.

- WICHIT CHANTANUSORNSIRI

Election posters from various political parties are displayed in front of the Bangkok Youth Centre (Thai-Japan) in Din Daeng district.

(NUTTHAWAT WICHEANBUT)

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul abruptly dissolved the House of Representatives earlier this month, triggering a snap general election set for early 2026 - likely on Feb 8 - under constitutional rules that require an election within 45-60 days after dissolution of parliament.

The dissolution came amid deep political divisions, disputes over constitutional reform, and pressure from the opposition People's Party, which threatened a no-confidence vote.

The move comes earlier than expected and just three months after Mr Anutin became prime minister when his predecessor, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, was removed from office by a Constitutional Court ruling over an ethics violation.