Thailand’s Top Opposition Parties Agree to Link Up After Vote

Move Forward chief Pita says he’s ready to be prime minister
Pheu Thai to back Pita but unelected Senate still plays role

WATCH: Thailand’s two biggest pro-democracy parties agreed to join in a coalition that would give them a clear majority in the lower house following Sunday’s election. Source: Bloomberg

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By Patpicha Tanakasempipat and Philip Heijmans

May 15, 2023 at 5:59 AM UTC

Updated on

May 15, 2023 at 10:29 AM UTC

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Thailand’s two biggest pro-democracy parties agreed to join in a coalition that would give them a clear majority in the lower house, moving to quickly maintain momentum after a stronger-than-forecast showing in Sunday’s elections.

The liberal Move Forward party claimed a mandate to lead after topping the polls, with party chief Pita Limjaroenrat taking to Twitter early Monday morning to say he would be a prime minister for all. He told reporters that he’s extended invitations to five parties to form the next government. With Move Forward leading in total seats and the popular vote, he won backing from the Pheu Thai party that finished second.