What role do former coup leaders play in this election?

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Former Coup Leaders Hold Significant Influence in Thailand's Upcoming Election

Two generals who were instrumental in past military coups are among the key figures vying for the prime minister position in Thailand's upcoming May 14 election. Incumbent Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha and his deputy, Prawit Wongsuwan, both former army chiefs from the same military faction, have been nominated by their respective parties. Prayuth has held the premiership since leading the 2014 coup that ousted a Pheu Thai government, while Prawit was a member of the subsequent junta.
Generals' Advantage in the Electoral Landscape

Political analysts suggest that the military backgrounds of Prayuth and Prawit provide them with a distinct advantage in the electoral contest. This is largely attributed to their leadership roles in the junta that was responsible for appointing the current senate, a body that will participate in the joint vote to select the next prime minister alongside the newly elected parliament. This appointed senate could potentially favour candidates with military ties.
Prayuth and Prawit's Political Nominations

Prayuth Chan-o-cha, 69, is running under the banner of the new United Thai Nation party. Despite constitutional limitations on his tenure as premier, he has been nominated for the top job. His mentor, Prawit Wongsuwan, 77, a former junta member, is representing the ruling Palang Pracharat party. Prawit has positioned himself as a unifying figure capable of bridging the divisions within Thailand's political landscape, which has experienced prolonged periods of turmoil.
Broader Political Alignments in the Election

The election is broadly seen as a contest between political factions aligned with the royalist military and the established Bangkok elite, and an opposition front led by the populist Pheu Thai party. Pheu Thai, historically dominant since 2001, has put forward Paetongtarn Shinawatra, a political newcomer from the influential Shinawatra family, aiming to re-energise its voter base. Other opposition figures, such as Pita Limjaroenrat of the Move Forward party, are also in contention, appealing particularly to younger voters.

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What role do former coup leaders play in this election?

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