Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn approved Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s request to dissolve parliament on Friday, paving the way for an early election. The move comes as an armed border conflict with Cambodia enters its fifth day, leaving at least 20 dead and hundreds of thousands displaced. The election must occur within 45 to 60 days, raising fears of renewed political turmoil.
Anutin said he was “returning power to the people” as the royal gazette confirmed the dissolution, enabling polls as soon as February. The decision follows a chaotic session in parliament over constitutional amendments, with the opposition threatening a no-confidence motion. Observers say the political instability underscores Thailand’s recurring cycle of short-lived governments.
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The border clash with Cambodia has intensified amid the political upheaval. US President Donald Trump, who intervened in July during previous fighting, reiterated plans to call both leaders to de-escalate tensions. Thousands of civilians have been displaced, and around 200 have been wounded in the ongoing violence near the frontier.
Anutin, Thailand’s third prime minister in two years, faces a steep challenge in the upcoming election. Opinion polls consistently favor the liberal opposition, the People’s Party, which has historically clashed with royalist and military-backed factions. Analysts predict the election could deepen political divisions if the minority government struggles to secure a clear mandate.
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Despite the looming vote, Anutin assured that the caretaker government would continue managing the Cambodia conflict. Government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat told Nation TV that the administration retains “full authority” to handle both domestic and international security matters until a new parliament is elected.