From Coup Leader to Candidate? Thai Junta Chief Considers Election Run By Reuters

By Panu Wongcha-um and Panarat Thepgumpanat

BANGKOK – The leader of Thailand’s military government, Prayuth Chan-ocha, is often known for his public outbursts, but recent months have seen a gentler approach from him, amid increasing speculation about a potential run for office in the upcoming election—the first since the army took control in 2014.

The former general and current prime minister has appeared on state television cooking chicken curry for villagers and tending to farmers while riding a tractor. Just last month, he released a musical piece featuring one of his signature ballads that has gained substantial radio airplay.

The lyrics of the song reflect his message: “Don’t let anyone destroy things like in the past … Hold our hands sincerely and go forward together.” This song was penned by the 64-year-old leader himself.

With Thailand awaiting clarity on his candidacy for the long-postponed general elections, now scheduled for March 24, Prayuth has been acting increasingly like a politician.

The upcoming election is anticipated to be a showdown between supporters of the ousted populist leaders Thaksin and Yingluck Shinawatra, both of whom were removed from power in military coups, and traditional establishment figures who accuse the Shinawatras of corruption.

Recently, a pro-military party approached Prayuth to become its prime ministerial candidate. However, he has indicated that he requires more time to consider, with a registration deadline rapidly approaching.

Many observers believe he will ultimately enter the race.

Under the newly enacted constitution of 2016, the military retains significant influence over prime ministerial selections. The prime minister is chosen by a combined majority of the appointed Senate and the elected House of Representatives, meaning a candidate with Senate backing would require just 126 votes from the 500-seat House to secure a majority.

Should he choose not to run, Prayuth could still assume the role of prime minister at the last minute if no consensus is reached among other parties on a candidate.

Despite the advantages, Prayuth’s shift from military leader to political candidate may not be without difficulties. Since taking charge, he has exhibited moments of frustration, including threats to throw a podium at a press briefing and suggesting he could “probably execute” a room full of reporters.

His regime has faced criticism from human rights organizations due to limits on political activities, internet censorship, and crackdowns on activists under the guise of “attitude adjustment.”

Political analysts suggest that Prayuth now must adopt a more personable demeanor. “He needs to win the affection of the public because fear won’t secure an election victory,” stated Prajak Kongkirati, a political science professor. “He knows he cannot rule as a dictator indefinitely.”

Prayuth’s appeal largely resonates with royalists, military supporters, and middle-class individuals opposed to Thaksin, who has been labeled a corrupt demagogue for his social policies.

Both Thaksin, who was ousted in a coup in 2006, and his sister Yingluck, who lost power in 2014, currently reside in exile and have been convicted of corruption—a charge they deny.

For many elite supporters, Prayuth’s 2014 coup was justified, and some may back him to prolong his leadership, according to Chulalongkorn University’s Pongphisoot Busbarat. “He has served the interests of the elite, large businesses, and royalist allies, and while his temperament may detract from his appeal to some voters, for his supporters it is a sign of strength.”

Prayuth was born in 1954 to a military family in Nakhon Ratchasima. His military career unfolded against a backdrop of significant political turbulence, including a student-led uprising in 1973 that removed a military regime, leading to a brief democratic phase before another military putsch.

Prayuth’s rise to army chief culminated in the 2014 coup, and his reputation for volatility became apparent shortly thereafter. Yet, he also displays quirks that endear him to his base, such as his musical endeavors and memorable moments like kissing a frog during a public event.

“It’s as if he embodies two contrasting personalities,” noted veteran journalist Wassana Nanuam. “He possesses a sense of humor that many perceive as authentic.”

In his personal life, Prayuth often spends time with his wife and twin daughters, who are in their 30s, at their home on a military base. One off-duty pastime he has had to forgo since assuming office is riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle; he now occasionally starts it up at home for enjoyment.

After nearly five years in power, Prayuth shows no signs of readiness to withdraw from the political stage. “I am a soldier. If you criticize me, I may become angry,” he stated to reporters. “But I must adapt because patience is essential in politics.”