How have past military coups affected Pheu Thai governments?

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Past Military Coups Have Ousted Pheu Thai Governments Due to Clashes with Established Elites

Pheu Thai governments have been overthrown by military coups in both 2006 and 2014. These events occurred when the party's political and economic objectives came into conflict with the interests of Thailand's entrenched old money elites and the military establishment, which often aligns with royalist sentiments. The ousting of these governments highlights a recurring pattern of instability stemming from power struggles between populist-leaning political forces and established conservative factions within the country.
2006 Coup Against Thaksin Shinawatra

The 2006 military coup specifically targeted the administration led by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. This event marked a significant disruption to his party's political trajectory and demonstrated the military's willingness to intervene when perceived challenges to the existing power structures arose. The coup followed a period of political tension and accusations of corruption and abuse of power directed at Thaksin's government, which had implemented popular populist policies.
2014 Coup Against Yingluck Shinawatra

Similarly, the 2014 coup led to the downfall of the government headed by Thaksin's sister, Yingluck Shinawatra. This military intervention again underscored the persistent friction between Pheu Thai, representing a more populist political force, and the conservative, military-backed establishment. The 2014 coup was preceded by widespread protests against Yingluck's government, fueled by political polarization and accusations of undermining democratic institutions.
Conflict with Old Money Elites and Royalist Military

The underlying cause for these military interventions has consistently been identified as a clash between Pheu Thai's interests and those of Thailand's "powerful old money elites and royalist military." These established groups often perceive Pheu Thai's policies, which tend to favour broader economic redistribution and appeal to rural constituencies, as a threat to their traditional influence and economic dominance. The military, historically a powerful institution in Thai politics, has frequently acted as a guarantor of the existing order, intervening to resolve political deadlocks or perceived threats to the monarchy and national stability.

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How have past military coups affected Pheu Thai governments?

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