Anutin Charnvirakul Elected as Thailand’s New Prime Minister

Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the conservative Bhumjaithai Party, has been elected Prime Minister of Thailand. He replaces Paetongtarn Shinawatra of the Pheu Thai Party, who was dismissed last month by the Constitutional Court over an ethics scandal. The result marks a major blow to the Shinawatra family, which has dominated Thai politics for more than 20 years. At 58 years old, Anutin is a seasoned politician. He previously served as Health Minister and Interior Minister, where he was known for spearheading Thailand’s cannabis decriminalization policy.