Thai PM Prayut to run for re-election in May

BANGKOK Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha was officially nominated for re-election on Saturday as his partys first candidate for the countrys next leader in polls set for May 14.

Mr Prayut, 69, is running with the new United Thai Nation Party, and will likely face Pheu Thai partys Ms Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter and niece of two former premiers from the billionaire family.

The incumbent, in power since 2014 when the military toppled a civilian government, was elected as a civilian leader in 2019.

The military veteran has lagged rivals in opinion polls, but hopes to win over supporters with promises of looking after the well-being of the people and the countrys stability, and protecting the monarchy.

We volunteer to make everyone as happy as possible, Mr Prayut said at a party event to introduce its candidates for all 400 constituencies.

He said his next government will continue the work of his current administration with a steady hand and the slogan: Have done, doing and will continue.

The most important thing is to defend the country and protect the nations main institution. Please trust me as youve always done, Mr Prayut added.

Party leader Pirapan Salirathavibhaga was nominated as the partys No. 2 candidate for prime minister.

Thailands election is set to be a showdown between the elite establishment and pro-democracy forces that have dominated politics in the South-east Asian country for decades. REUTERS More On This Topic Thailand to hold general election on May 14 Thailands pro-military party fashions itself as a peacemaker ahead of general election