Thailand's Progressive Leader Fails in Initial Bid to Become Prime Minister Amid Opposition
- Pita Limjaroenrat, leader of the election-winning Move Forward Party, was unable to secure enough parliamentary votes to become Thailand's new prime minister.
- Limjaroenrat faced resistance from the military-backed Senate and legal challenges over his progressive reform agenda.
- Another parliamentary vote will be held next week, allowing Limjaroenrat to be nominated again if he chooses.
- Limjaroenrat's proposal to amend the lese-majeste law protecting the monarchy sparked heated debate in parliament.
- The outcome highlights tensions between the progressive opposition and Thailand's conservative establishment.