Thailand politics

Launching the United Thai Nation Party's campaign, the former general promised to "move beyond" the conflict that has gripped Thai politics over the past two decades.

The polls will once again see a showdown between the allies of exiled former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and the country's conservative establishment.

Once at the forefront of the youthful protests against PM Prayut Chan-o-cha, activists weigh in on the stakes of the upcoming polls.

The cartoon images of the duck, a symbol of the country's pro-democracy movement, were said to mock the Thai king.

The upcoming election, due to fall in early May, will see the Thai leader stand for election for the first time.

A new poll shows the Thai leader as the preferred candidate among respondents in the capital Bangkok.

Dissolving parliament early would have some minor benefits for Prayut Chan-o-cha's United Thai Nation party, but is unlikely to significantly improve its chances.

Activists from the monarchy reform group Thalu Wang have asked the Pheu Thai Party to abolish Section 112 if it wins this year's election.

With street politics halted and parliamentary politics effectively on hold until the election, Thailand feels in limbo.

Tantawan Tuatulanon and Orawan Phuphong demanded that a judge revoke their bail in solidarity with other activists facing lese-majeste charges.

If elected, she would become the third Shinawatra to lead Thailand after her father and aunt – both of whom were removed by military coups.

The leader has officially joined the United Thai Nation Party, in the hope of making an impression at this year's election.