Thailand: 53 Million Voters Head to Polls for Election, Constitutional Referendum

Today, 53 million voters in Thailand are heading to the polls for parliamentary elections and a referendum on initiating constitutional reform.

The aim is to strengthen the democratic character of the political system and reduce the influence of unelected bodies, according to the German Press Agency (dpa).

The opposition People's Party (PP), successor to the Move Forward Party (MFP), led by 38-year-old businessman Natapong Ruangpaniyawut, had a lead in the polls. However, analysts believe that even in the event of a victory, forming a government will be difficult.

Other major political forces are Pheu Thai, founded by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, and the Bhumjaithai party of outgoing Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.

Political instability in Thailand is high, with Anutin being the third head of government in two years. Political analysts predict a close election and demanding negotiations to form a governing coalition.