The BGA Thailand Team, led by Managing Director Teerasak Siripant, wrote an update to clients on the upcoming elections in the country.

Context

  • Thailand’s Election Commission on March 21 released the official timeline of the upcoming election, with a polling date set for May 14. The announcement came the day after Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha dissolved the lower house.

Significance

  • Every political party has announced its MP candidates for the constituencies and party list. Major party switching among MPs is therefore not expected at this point.
  • Pheu Thai enjoys a dominant lead in all the major national polls conducted so far. Even by conservative estimates, Pheu Thai is still expected to win the most seats by a comfortable margin.

Implications

  • Despite limited business implications at this early stage,BGA recommends that clients closely watch for outcomes that could lead to a change of government, potentially led by Pheu Thai.
  • The campaign season will limit company engagement opportunities because key political figures will focus on winning votes and connecting with their constituents. Businesses are advised to pay attention to electoral campaigning rules and regulations to avoid being tied to politically sensitive issues and incurring reputational damage.

We will continue to keep you updated on developments in Thailand as they occur. If you have any comments or questions, please contact BGA Thailand Managing Director Teerasak Siripant at tsiripant@bowergroupasia.com.

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Managing Director

Art is an intuitive leader with a strong set of relationships with Thailand’s government, business, media and civil society leaders. His network spans a diverse set of stakeholders, from farmers in rural Thailand to the top echelons of Thailand’s political leadership. Prior to joining BGA, Art spent a decade serving as the chief political advisor to the Australian ambassador to Thailand. In this role, he had a front row seat to the most significant political and economic developments in Thailand. Earlier, he served as an army intelligence officer in the Royal Thai Armed Forces. Art has played a central role ... Read More