Big changes are on the horizon for Thailand’s political scene as the Pheu Thai Party enters a new phase. With Paetongtarn Shinawatra stepping down from party leadership, all eyes now turn to Julapun Amornvivat, who is being lined up as the frontrunner to take over and steer the party into calmer waters.
Why Paetongtarn’s Exit Matters
Paetongtarn’s resignation didn’t come out of the blue. She cited the need for a full overhaul of the party in a time of turbulence, arguing that Pheu Thai must reinvent itself to stay relevant.
At the same time, her departure is linked to legal and political vulnerabilities. The party may have been trying to shield itself from risks tied to her role and the family brand.
In short: the party is at a crossroads and this change is more than just a leadership swap, it’s a signal of broader transformation.
Enter Julapun Amornvivat: Bridge Between Old and New
The party’s emerging choice, Julapun Amornvivat, brings a different vibe. He has a reputation for being more conciliatory, more moderate, and more focused on unity.
Here’s a snapshot:
| Trait | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Legacy connection (son of former leader) | Gives continuity and respect for the party’s roots |
| Younger/less polarising image | Helps attract newer voters who might be tired of the old guard |
| Opportunity to rebuild credibility | With recent setbacks, fresh leadership gives a reset button |
What the Shift Means for Pheu Thai & Thai Politics
For Pheu Thai, this transition offers several opportunities and several risks.
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Opportunity to pivot both policy and image: With Julapun, the party can present itself as modernising, open, and more inclusive.
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Risk of internal backlash: Those loyal to the old guard especially the Shinawatra legacy might resist.
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Impact on coalition/unrest: The timing suggests the party is gearing up for elections, so the new leadership will need to prove it can win, not just hold.
Analysts point out that Pheu Thai has lost ground in recent by-elections, exposing cracks in its voter base and internal cohesion.
Quick Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Aug 29, 2025 | Constitutional Court issues ruling impacting Paetongtarn’s status. |
| Oct 22, 2025 | Paetongtarn announces resignation as party leader. |
| Oct 31, 2025 | Scheduled general assembly for Pheu Thai to decide on new leader. |
Conclusion
In fast-moving politics, the change at Pheu Thai is significant. Paetongtarn’s exit marks an intentional break from past approaches, and Julapun Amornvivat’s rise signals the party’s bid to reboot keeping its legacy but embracing an updated identity. Whether this reboot will succeed depends on how well the party navigates internal divisions, reinvent its brand, and connects with voters. The coming months will be critical for Pheu Thai’s future.