Bangkok’s Political Hang‑over: Prayut’s Two‑Year Power Play
What happened? Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha has been told by his top ally that he can continue ruling for another two years. Meanwhile, the opposition party Pheu Thai is scrambling for the court to declare his time in office is legally over.
Why the Two‑Year Extension?
- Prawit Wongsuwan, 76, former army chief and political mastermind, was asked if he was lining up for a “pre‑vacant” takeover if the court throws out Prayut’s mandate. He shrugged: “I haven’t even thought of that. Prayut will stay in the seat for two more years.”
- There’s no word on whether the extra two years will include the upcoming elections the prime minister must call within ten months.
- Both leaders are playing a long game, with the opposition hunting for a loophole in the constitution.
The Eight‑Year Rule – The Debate
- Parties eye the 2014 coup marks: Pheu Thai says the law is finished on Aug 23, exactly eight years after Prayut was first installed.
- Other supporters argue the rule only started with the 2017 constitution.
- Prayut himself said the final call lies in the court’s hands.
All The Chaos and Why It Matters
Prayut has dodged the biggest anti‑government protests of the past decade, tucked away a lot of authority behind the scenes, and now the nation’s tension rate is rock solid. The opposition has tried everything from court battles to legislation and is hoping the public’s growing impatience will tip the scales.
What Should One Expect?
- Will the court side with Pheu Thai and cut off Prayut’s reign?
- Will the two‑year extension be a “stabilizing period” or a pre‑emptive cue for a future showdown?
- Will the election that’s looming change the playing field?
High stakes, low patience, and a political drama that looks longer than a soap opera. Stay tuned – Bangkok’s next chapter is about to begin.
