Turmoil in Thailand: No-Confidence Motion Threatens PM

Paetongtarn Shinawatra

Thailand's political landscape shifted last week as the opposition People's Party filed a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, reigniting debates on governance, political dynasties, and opposition effectiveness.

Thailand transitioned from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional one in 1932, a shift that introduced democratic structures but also ushered in periods of political instability. Since then, it has oscillated between civilian and military rule, with frequent coups shaping its landscape. The monarchy remains deeply revered, often stabilising crises, but power struggles between elected governments, the military, and the monarchy have fuelled recurring conflicts.  

The 2017 constitution, drafted under the military-led NCPO after the 2014 coup, is criticised for favouring the military and elites over democracy. Under this framework, Thailand’s Senate is appointed, granting the military and royalists significant political influence. These constraints have hindered reforms, fueling tensions between pro-democracy movements and conservatives.

Current Political Landscape

The 2023 general election saw the Pheu Thai Party return to power after a dramatic turn of events. Although the Move Forward Party won the most seats, it was blocked from governing, prompting Pheu Thai to form a coalition government, initially under Srettha Thavisin. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, became Prime Minister in August 2024 following Srettha’s dismissal. Her administration was considered a bid to restore the influence of the Shinawatra family, long a contentious force in Thai politics due to its populist policies and opposition to the military-backed establishment.

The opposition, led by the newly formed People's Party, emerged from the dissolution of the Move Forward Party, which was disbanded by the Constitutional Court due to its progressive stance on sensitive issues like the lèse-majesté law. This dissolution reflected ongoing struggles between reformist movements and conservative institutions determined to preserve Thailand’s traditional power structure. Despite these challenges, the opposition remains vocal, pushing for greater democratic freedoms and accountability.

Thailand’s political landscape is shaped by a few dominant parties. The Pheu Thai Party, founded by Thaksin Shinawatra, continues to command significant support, particularly among rural and working-class voters. However, its association with political controversies and allegations of corruption has led to repeated legal challenges and opposition from the military-backed establishment.

The People's Party, formed after the dissolution of the Move Forward Party, has taken up the mantle of progressive politics, focusing on democratic reforms, economic justice, and reducing military influence in governance. Its dissolution created widespread dissatisfaction among younger voters, who have increasingly turned to protest movements and alternative political organizations to push for change.

Other influential parties include Palang Pracharath, a military-aligned party, and Bhumjaithai, which has maintained a strategic position in coalition politics. These parties, along with smaller royalist and conservative factions, contribute to the complex and often unpredictable nature of Thai politics.

The No-Confidence Motion

The no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been framed around allegations of incompetence and undue influence from her father, Thaksin Shinawatra. Opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut has criticised the prime minister for lack of independent leadership, arguing that her policies reflect Thaksin’s agenda rather than her own vision for the country.

Critics have also pointed to economic mismanagement as a key reason for the motion. Thailand’s economy, which has been struggling with slow post-pandemic recovery, rising inflation, and growing inequality, has put significant pressure on the government. The opposition claims that Paetongtarn’s administration has failed to implement effective economic policies, leading to declining public confidence in her leadership.

Additionally, concerns over corruption and governance have also fuelled the motion. Allegations of favouritism in contracts and a lack of transparency in decision-making have further weakened the prime minister’s position, bolstering the opposition’s call for fresh leadership to restore public trust.

If the no-confidence motion succeeds, it could force Paetongtarn Shinawatra to resign or even collapse the coalition government, potentially triggering early elections. This would offer the opposition a chance to gain power but could also spark renewed instability and uncertainty over governance.

If the motion fails, which is more likely, the prime minister may view it as a vote of confidence, enabling her administration to press on with its agenda. However, this could deepen national divisions, with pro-democracy activists and reformists likely to intensify protests and political pressure.

Another possible outcome is greater intervention by the judiciary and military-backed institutions, which have historically played decisive roles in political crises. Legal actions, further dissolutions of opposition parties, or even military interference remain possible.

Regardless of the result, Thailand’s political landscape is likely to stay turbulent as competing forces shape the nation’s future. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the government weathers the challenge or the country enters another phase of uncertainty.

(The author is a foreign affairs expert. Views personal.)