Thailand’s Opposition People’s Party Takes Early Lead Ahead of February Election

Post by : Saif Nasser

Thailand is moving toward a crucial general election, and early opinion polls suggest that the country’s liberal opposition is gaining strong public support. With voting set for February 8, surveys show the People’s Party and its leader, Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, leading the race, creating a serious challenge for Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and his ruling party.

Two major polls released this week place the People’s Party at the top among voters. A survey by Suan Dusit University found that more than one-third of respondents support the party, far ahead of Anutin’s conservative Bhumjaithai Party. The former ruling party, Pheu Thai, followed closely but showed signs of declining popularity.

Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut also emerged as the most preferred choice for prime minister. Many voters, especially young people and those living in cities, say they support his promise of political reform and a more open style of leadership. His rise reflects growing public frustration with repeated political crises and unstable governments.

Thailand has faced ongoing political turmoil in recent years. In less than three years, the country has seen several prime ministers removed from office through court rulings or parliamentary pressure. This cycle has left many citizens feeling tired of constant power struggles and eager for long-term stability.

The People’s Party is closely linked to the former Move Forward Party, which won the most votes in the 2023 election but was blocked from forming a government. Lawmakers aligned with the military and royalist groups prevented it from taking power, and the party was later dissolved by a court. Many of its supporters now back the People’s Party, hoping this time their votes will lead to real change.

Prime Minister Anutin called a snap election in December after his minority government faced the risk of collapse during a tense parliamentary session. The decision followed months of political pressure and came as Thailand was also dealing with a border conflict with Cambodia. Critics say the early election highlights how weak and divided the current government has become.

At the same time, Pheu Thai, once one of Thailand’s strongest political forces, is losing ground. The party’s support has dropped after the fall of its government last year and legal troubles involving senior leaders. Some voters now question whether the party can regain its former strength.

As election day approaches, experts warn that the results could once again lead to political deadlock, especially if coalition talks fail. Still, the strong polling performance of the People’s Party shows that many Thai voters are calling for reform, fairness, and respect for democratic choices.

The February election will play a key role in shaping Thailand’s political future. While challenges remain, the current polls suggest that public opinion is shifting, and many citizens are ready for a new direction.