Natthaphong Leads Prime Minister Race
Youth and Bold Vision Resonate
A June 2025 National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) poll revealed opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut as the top choice for Thailand’s prime minister, favored by 31.48% of 2,000 respondents surveyed from June 19–25. As head of the People’s Party, Natthaphong’s appeal lies in his youthful energy, outspoken political stances, and modern ideas, outpacing Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s declining support.
Paetongtarn’s Popularity Wanes
Leaked Call Fuels Criticism
Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, saw her support drop to 9.20%, a sharp decline from 30.9% in NIDA’s March 2025 poll. A leaked phone conversation with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, where she appeared to criticize a Thai military commander, has intensified public and political backlash, eroding confidence in her leadership and weakening Pheu Thai’s standing.
Gen Prayut’s Unexpected Comeback
Honesty Drives Support
Surprisingly, former Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha emerged as the third-favored candidate at 12.72%, praised for his honesty and ability to restore order. Absent from the previous poll, the United Thai Nation Party figure and privy councillor gained traction among respondents seeking stability amid ongoing political turmoil, highlighting a nostalgic appeal for his leadership style.
Other Contenders in the Race
Anutin Gains Ground
Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul secured 9.64% support, placing him fourth, just ahead of Paetongtarn. Meanwhile, 19.88% of respondents found no suitable prime ministerial candidate, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with current options. The poll underscores a fragmented political landscape, with voters seeking fresh leadership amid ongoing controversies.
People’s Party Dominates Party Preference
Strong Public Backing
The People’s Party led as the favorite political party, garnering 46.08% support, far ahead of the United Thai Nation Party (13.24%), Pheu Thai (11.52%), and Bhumjaithai (9.76%). This commanding lead signals a shift in public sentiment, with nearly half of respondents favoring the opposition’s progressive platform over the ruling coalition’s traditional base.
Political Implications for Thailand
A Shifting Landscape
The NIDA poll reflects growing frustration with Paetongtarn’s government, compounded by the Hun Sen call controversy and coalition instability, as Bhumjaithai’s exit left Pheu Thai vulnerable. Natthaphong’s rise suggests a demand for younger, reform-minded leadership. As Thailand navigates a turbulent July, with protests and a Constitutional Court ruling looming, the poll signals potential shifts in the nation’s political future.
