Thai voters head to the polls with three main parties vying to form government

"Polling stations opened in Thailand on Sunday for an election that pits a youthful pro-democracy party against rivals that are offering a mix of nationalism and populist policies. The People's party, which is pledging structural changes to Thailand's political and economic system, has led opinion polls before Sunday's vote, fuelled by support from younger voters. However, the party, led by 38-year-old former software engineer Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, is not expected to secure an outright majority, and may struggle to build a coalition."

"In Bangkok many people said they were voting for change, but felt nervous about whether their choice would be reflected in the next government. Konwikhan Pongpaiboon, 40, who was voting in Bangkok's Bang Na district, said she wanted a better future for her children. In the past, we have been stuck in the same loop we elect a party but then change never happens. It's a loop. So today I voted for change, I want to see change in the country, she said."

"The People's party is up against incumbent prime minister Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of Bhumjaithai, a staunch royalist who has sought to ride growing nationalism linked to Thailand's conflict with Cambodia, as well as Pheu Thai, the populist party associated with now jailed former leader Thaksin Shinawatra. We need a strong leader who can protect our sovereignty, said Yuernyong Loonboot, 64, the first voter to cast his ballot at a polling station in Buriram, the home town of incumbent prime minister, told AFP."

Polling stations opened in Thailand for a tightly contested election between a youthful pro-democracy People's party and rivals offering nationalism and populist policies. The People's party pledges structural political and economic changes and has led opinion polls with strong youth support, but faces legal challenges and is unlikely to win an outright majority or easily form a coalition. The party's predecessor was blocked and dissolved by the constitutional court amid interventions by the military royalist establishment. Many voters in Bangkok expressed desire for change and an end to corruption, while others prioritized strong leadership and sovereignty amid tensions with Cambodia and established political forces.

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