Tycoon Behind Thailand’s Cannabis Drive Becomes New PM Amid Political Shake-Up

Anutin Charnvirakul, a wealthy tycoon turned career politician and prominent advocate for cannabis decriminalization, was elected Prime Minister of Thailand on 5 September 2025. The 58-year-old leader of the conservative, royalist Bhumjaithai Party secured a commanding parliamentary majority, garnering approximately 311 votes, to replace the ousted Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who was removed from office by the constitutional court over ethics violations.

Known widely for championing Thailand’s 2022 cannabis liberalization, Anutin previously held high-profile posts such as Health Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and Interior Minister. His family’s construction empire, which developed major landmarks including Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, underpins his status as a construction industry tycoon and political heavyweight.

Anutin clinched power by striking a deal with the reform-oriented People’s Party. In exchange for its crucial backing, he promised to dissolve parliament and hold new elections within four months, while exploring constitutional reform potentially via referendum. Although the People’s Party endorsed his candidacy, it will not formally join the administration.

His ascent represents a decisive setback for the long-dominant Shinawatra political faction. Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Aetongtarn’s father, left the country for Dubai just before the parliamentary vote and faces imminent court proceedings.

As Thailand’s third prime minister in just over a year, Anutin’s leadership ushers in a new chapter of political flux. He inherits a nation grappling with economic uncertainty, post-pandemic recovery challenges, and mounting voter pressure for democratic reform.

Sources: The Guardian, Associated Press, Financial Times