2023’s top stories: Move Forward wins election but loses fight for power

13 Sept 14:55 Key points summarised by AI

The liberal Move Forward Party secured a shock victory in Thailand's May 2023 general election, winning the most seats but ultimately failing to form a government.
Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat was blocked from becoming Prime Minister due to insufficient support from the military-appointed Senate and facing a media share controversy.
The initial eight-party alliance, led by Move Forward, collapsed after its inability to secure the premiership and its refusal to compromise on controversial policies like lese majeste law reform.
The Pheu Thai Party subsequently withdrew from the alliance with Move Forward and formed a new 11-party coalition, including parties from the previous military-backed administration.
Srettha Thavisin of the Pheu Thai Party was elected Thailand's 30th Prime Minister, succeeding General Prayut Chan-o-cha, with significant support from both MPs and senators.

Flooding persists in Bangkok and 22 provinces

Yesterday 16:00 Key points summarised by AI

Persistent flooding continues across Bangkok and 22 Thai provinces, though water levels are gradually receding in many affected areas.
Over 604,000 families, impacting approximately 1.83 million people, are still grappling with the widespread flood conditions.
The national flood death toll has reached 80 since mid-September, with fatalities reported across various provinces.
Major regions like Pathum Thani, Ayutthaya, and Bangkok report significant numbers of affected households, with hundreds of thousands still in trouble.