Sunday, February 8, 2026
27.3 C
Bangkok

Business – “Thailand Elections: Three-Way Race Increases Risk of Political Stalemate”

Article Summary:

On February 8, 2026, Thai voters participated in a crucial snap election, accompanied by a referendum on a new constitution. This election is marked by a competitive three-way race between the ruling conservative Bhumjaithai Party, the progressive People’s Party, and the populist Pheu Thai Party. Pre-poll surveys suggest a fractured mandate, potentially leading to further political paralysis in the country.

Approximately 53 million citizens were eligible to vote, reflecting the high stakes involved. The outcome of this election could greatly influence the management of an economy struggling with soaring debt and a declining workforce, exacerbated by past military coups and political instability. Voting concluded at 5 PM local time, with preliminary results expected soon after.

Original Article:

Thailand votes as three-way race raises risk of stalemate

Published Sun, Feb 8, 2026 · 09:38 AM — Updated Sun, Feb 8, 2026 · 05:13 PM

[BANGKOK] Thai voters headed to the polls on Sunday (Feb 8) in what is seen as a three-cornered contest, with most pre-poll surveys signalling a fractured mandate that could trigger a fresh bout of political paralysis.

About 53 million voters are eligible to cast ballots in the snap election and a concurrent referendum on a new constitution. The race is seen as a high-stakes showdown between the ruling conservative Bhumjaithai Party, the progressive People’s Party and a populist Pheu Thai Party poised to tip the balance if no party wins outright.

Voting will close at 5 pm local time (6 pm Singapore time), with preliminary results expected within hours.

At stake is control over an economy beset by soaring debt and a shrinking workforce following years of military coups, political bans and short-lived…

Read more…

Latest articles

Popular Categories