Thai pro-democracy coalition faces obstacles amid conservative backlash

Pro-democracy parties in Thailand are facing resistance in their efforts to form a government following their historic win in the recent general election.

The Move Forward Party (MFP), led by prime ministerial candidate Pita Limjaroenrat, has expanded its coalition to eight parties with 313 members. However, to form a government without relying on the military-appointed Senate, the bloc needs 376 seats.

The Bhumjaithai party, which won 70 seats, has refused to back Pita’s bid for prime minister due to his plans to amend the lese majeste law, Section 112 of the Criminal Code. The uncertainty has led to foreign investors selling baht-denominated bonds and stocks, while the baht has fallen 1.6% against the dollar since Tuesday.

Pita Limjaroenrat, 42 years old, expressed confidence in securing the premiership, stating…

“I’m…