Thailand’s political landscape underwent a notable shift after the conservative Bhumjaithai Party secured the largest share of seats in the 2026 general election, positioning Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to lead the next government.

Unofficial results released by the Election Commission showed Bhumjaithai winning approximately 193 seats in the 500-member House of Representatives, a clear lead over its rivals and a significant departure from earlier polls that had favoured reform-oriented parties.

The outcome reflects voter endorsement of the party’s emphasis on stability, national security and rural outreach amid economic challenges and regional tensions at the border with Cambodia.

The progressive People’s Party, which had been projected by surveys to perform strongly, finished in second place with around 118 seats, while the traditional Pheu Thai Party lagged behind with roughly 74. Although Bhumjaithai fell short of an outright majority, its strong showing gives it a pivotal role in coalition talks to form a new government, with analysts saying the results demonstrate a consolidation of conservative forces and a public preference for continuity over rapid political change.

Prime Minister Anutin celebrated the outcome as a victory for the Thai people and pledged to work toward unity and effective governance.

The election also coincided with a constitutional referendum that preliminary indications suggest received broad support, underscoring complex public desires for institutional reform alongside continuity in parliamentary leadership.