Story perspectives

Bhumjaithai Party Elects New Speaker Amid Cabinet Finalization

3/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

On March 15, 2023, Thailand's ruling Bhumjaithai Party strengthened its position after winning the election, securing 192 seats.
Mr. Sophon Saram was elected Speaker of the House of Representatives with 289 votes, surpassing the opposition's 123 votes.
Bhumjaithai is forming a 15-party coalition totaling around 290 seats, which will influence legislative agendas and the prime ministerial selection.
Ms. Mallika Jirapunvanit was appointed as the first Deputy House Speaker, and Mr. Lertsak Pattanachaikul from the Pheu Thai Party became the second deputy.
The new Cabinet will be submitted for royal endorsement soon.

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Story summary

On March 15, 2023, Thailand's ruling Bhumjaithai Party strengthened its position after winning the election, securing 192 seats.
Mr. Sophon Saram was elected Speaker of the House of Representatives with 289 votes, surpassing the opposition's 123 votes.
Bhumjaithai is forming a 15-party coalition totaling around 290 seats, which will influence legislative agendas and the prime ministerial selection.
Ms. Mallika Jirapunvanit was appointed as the first Deputy House Speaker, and Mr. Lertsak Pattanachaikul from the Pheu Thai Party became the second deputy.
The new Cabinet will be submitted for royal endorsement soon.