Prime Minister Anutin Charnavirakul has claimed victory in Thailand's general election, with preliminary vote counts showing his ruling conservatives well ahead of their nearest rivals. Anutin proclaimed the success as belonging to 'all Thais, no matter whether you voted for us or not', following results that defied expectation. With approximately 90% of votes counted, Anutin's Bhumjaithai party is projected to win 194 seats in Bangkok's 500-seat parliament, while the reformist People's Party lands in second with an estimated 116 seats.

People's Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut acknowledged the defeat, expressing readiness to serve in opposition should Anutin secure government formation. The election followed the collapse of Anutin's coalition just three months prior, though no single party is expected to achieve an overall majority.

Voter turnout indicated priorities focused on economic issues, with rising household debt and stagnant growth impacting decisions at the polls. While the People's Party, known for its radical reform agenda, performed well in proportional votes, it failed to attract sufficient support in local constituencies compared to Anutin's pragmatic approach. The surprising result signifies a shift in Thailand's political landscape, leading to a future where the reformists brace for opposition amidst changing voter dynamics.