Thailand’s Cannabis Champion Rises in PM Race Amid Political Shakeup

Thailand’s volatile political scene took another dramatic turn as Anutin Charnvirakul, the tycoon-turned-politician known for championing medical cannabis legalization, appears to be leading the race to become the next prime minister.

Anutin, who heads the conservative Bhumjaithai Party, secured conditional support from the main opposition People’s Party to form an interim government—provided he agrees to dissolve parliament within four months and backs constitutional reform, possibly through a public referendum. Notably, the People’s Party won’t join his administration.

This development follows the recent ousting of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra by Thailand’s Constitutional Court over an ethics violation, triggering widespread political instability. Her removal is the latest in a series of coups and dismissals targeting leaders from the influential Shinawatra dynasty.

Anutin’s rise marks a significant pivot in Thailand’s cannabis politics. He earned national prominence as the policy architect behind Thailand’s groundbreaking decriminalization of cannabis in 2022. That policy initially fueled a vibrant — though loosely regulated — cannabis economy.

Yet since then, the country has reversed course, reclassifying cannabis as a controlled substance only available by prescription, amid concerns over youth access and smuggling.

Anutin’s rise may signal a return to more liberal cannabis policies. His leadership could reignite hopes for regulated reform—especially for rural communities reliant on cannabis as a cash crop, tourism operators, and small dispensary owners.

Meanwhile, his potential premiership might offer more stability than the Shinawatra era, which, despite its populist appeal, was fraught with legal challenges and polarized power dynamics.

👉  Audience Question:

With Anutin now at the forefront, could we see cannabis reform regain steam in Thailand—or will political instability continue to stall the industry? How should cannabis policy align with democratic reform? Share your thoughts below!