Anutin Charnvirakul, the man poised to become Thailand’s next prime minister after securing the backing of a parliamentary majority, presents a fascinating paradox. He is a staunch royalist and conservative, yet simultaneously embodies an eclectic mix of passions and hobbies that defy easy categorization. This profile delves into the multifaceted persona of Anutin, exploring his political trajectory, his controversial stances, and the personal quirks that have shaped his image in the Thai public eye.
At 58 years old, Anutin is perhaps best known for his advocacy for cannabis legalization, a policy that has reshaped Thailand’s landscape in recent years. However, his interests extend far beyond the realm of politics. He is a licensed pilot who has utilized his private jets to transport organs for transplant patients, demonstrating a commitment to public service that transcends political maneuvering. His artistic side finds expression through his saxophone playing and his love for karaoke, where he can be seen crooning popular tunes. Furthermore, he embraces a down-to-earth image, often seen on social media cooking fried rice in casual attire, reflecting a connection to everyday Thai life.
Despite his approachable public persona, Anutin is a seasoned political operator with deep roots in Thailand’s elite. He is the son of a former cabinet minister and hails from a family that owns one of the country’s largest construction companies, responsible for building some of Bangkok’s most prominent landmarks, including the city’s main airport. This background has provided him with both financial resources and political connections, which he has skillfully leveraged throughout his career.
Anutin has played a pivotal role in building his party, Bhumjaithai, into a significant force in Thai politics. The party’s name, meaning "proud to be Thai," reflects its nationalist leanings and its focus on promoting Thai identity and culture. Bhumjaithai has navigated the complex web of Thai politics by carefully building alliances and capitalizing on opportunities as they arise. While the party lacks a rigid ideology, it is known for its unwavering support for the Thai monarchy, a position that has solidified its standing within the conservative establishment.
Following the last election, Anutin’s party played a key role in blocking the pro-reform party that had won the most seats and votes, citing concerns about the party’s stance on Thailand’s strict lese-majesty law. This law, which prohibits criticism of the king and other members of the royal family, carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. Anutin’s party has consistently defended the lese-majesty law, with one of its members even suggesting that those who insult the monarchy should be subject to violence.
Anutin’s unwavering loyalty to the monarchy has been recognized by the palace, which awarded him the Chulachomklao Order, Second Class, and the Rattanaporn Medal, Third Class. This honor, bestowed upon him when he was the only civilian politician to receive it, has been interpreted by some as a sign of his anointment as a successor within the conservative establishment.
Anutin’s political career has included stints as deputy prime minister, interior minister, and health minister. As health minister, he spearheaded the decriminalization of cannabis, a move that has had a profound impact on Thailand’s economy and society. While the policy has been praised by some for its potential economic benefits and its ability to provide access to medical cannabis for patients, it has also been criticized for being implemented too hastily, without adequate safeguards. The rapid proliferation of cannabis shops following decriminalization has led to concerns about public health and safety, and the lack of clear regulations has created uncertainty for businesses operating in the sector.
Anutin has maintained that his primary focus has always been on promoting medical cannabis, but the initial legal vacuum that followed decriminalization has created challenges and controversies. Subsequent attempts to regulate the industry have further complicated matters, leaving many businesses struggling to navigate the evolving legal landscape.
Despite the controversies surrounding cannabis legalization, Anutin’s political acumen and his ability to forge alliances have allowed him to rise to the position of prime minister. While his party is only the third largest in parliament, the turbulent nature of Thai politics has created an opportunity for him to take the helm.
Recent rulings by Thailand’s constitutional court, which has a history of intervening in political affairs, have further reshaped the political landscape. The court’s decisions have effectively sidelined potential candidates from the country’s two largest parties, paving the way for Anutin to emerge as a compromise candidate.
The People’s party, formerly known as Move Forward, was unable to nominate a candidate for prime minister after its sole contender was disqualified by a court ruling. Similarly, the Pheu Thai party, associated with former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, has seen two of its prime ministerial candidates removed from office by the court, including Thaksin’s daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra and her predecessor Srettha Thavisin.
Anutin’s ascent to power was contingent upon the support of the People’s party, which agreed to back his candidacy on the condition that he commit to holding elections within four months and potentially holding a referendum on rewriting the constitution. These commitments reflect the People’s party’s desire for a more democratic system of government.
However, some observers have expressed skepticism about Anutin’s willingness to uphold these commitments, given his history of breaking and brokering alliances. His track record suggests that he is a pragmatist who is willing to adapt his positions to suit the prevailing political circumstances.
Despite these concerns, Anutin has pledged to work diligently to address the challenges facing Thailand and to fulfill his responsibilities as prime minister. Upon leaving parliament after his election, he told reporters that he would work "my hardest, every day, no holidays, because there is not a lot of time."
In conclusion, Anutin Charnvirakul is a complex and enigmatic figure who defies easy categorization. He is a staunch royalist with a passion for cannabis legalization, a seasoned politician with a love for karaoke, and a member of Thailand’s elite who projects an image of accessibility. His rise to the position of prime minister reflects the turbulent and unpredictable nature of Thai politics, and his tenure will be closely watched to see whether he can deliver on his promises and navigate the challenges facing the country. Only time will tell whether he will be remembered as a transformative leader or simply as a caretaker prime minister who occupied the office during a period of political transition.