Anutin Charnvirakul: Thailand Cannabis PM – Explained News
Here’s a summary of the key details about Anutin Charnvirakul from the provided text:
New Prime Minister of Thailand: Anutin Charnvirakul was elected Prime Minister of Thailand in August 2023, just two years after becoming a minister and a week after Paetongtarn Shinawatra was removed from the position by the Constitutional Court. Immediate Priorities: He intends to work tirelessly to quickly address the country’s problems.
Political Backing & Conditions: He has the support of the People’s Party (currently in opposition) contingent on dissolving parliament within four months,changing the constitution,and perhaps holding a referendum.
Background:
Age: 58 years old. Family: Son of politician and construction tycoon Chavarat Charnvirakul.
Education: Engineering degree from Hofstra University (New York, 1989).
Business: Worked at Sino-Thai Engineering and Construction PCL (family business), involved in major projects like Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Political Career:
Advisor to the Foreign Affairs Minister (1996). Deputy Minister of Commerce (2004).
Deputy Minister of Public Health (2004-2005).
Leader of the Bhumjaithai Party (BJT) since 2012.
Health Minister in Prayut chan-ocha’s second government (overseeing the COVID-19 pandemic).
Interior Minister (until recently).
Cannabis Advocate: He is a strong proponent of legal cannabis, aiming for medical benefits, economic opportunities for farmers, and reduced prison populations. However, the rollout faced criticism for lack of regulation, and recent changes have restricted its use.
* Relationship with Pheu Thai: The BJT has historically played a “king-maker” role, supporting the Thaksin Shinawatra-affiliated Pheu Thai Party.