Thailand's Parliament Dissolved Amid Rising Tensions with Cambodia

Bangkok: Thailand's Prime Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, has dissolved parliament, paving the way for general elections early next year. The move comes as deadly border clashes continue with neighboring Cambodia, resulting in at least 20 deaths and displacing around 600,000 people, mostly in Thailand.

The dissolution, announced in a royal decree, cites the minority government's inability to effectively govern due to multiple challenges. Anutin, who became prime minister in September after his predecessor was removed over an ethics violation, had been expected to dissolve parliament after Christmas. However, the move was brought forward amid rising tensions with Cambodia and a threatened no-confidence motion from the People's Party.

Border Tensions Escalate

The border clashes, fueled by a decades-long territorial dispute over ancient temples, have seen Thailand launch air strikes and use tanks against Cambodia. The Cambodian defense ministry claims Thai military continued to shell and fire machine guns into Cambodian territory. US President Donald Trump has offered to broker peace between the two nations.

Election Timeline

Elections are expected between late January and early February, as required by Thai law, which mandates polls be held 45-60 days after parliament's dissolution. Anutin's decision to dissolve parliament was reportedly triggered by the People's Party's withdrawal of support, citing broken agreements on constitutional amendments.

Photo: AFP