Thailand in limbo as Move Forward’s electoral impetus hits political roadblocks

Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat becoming mired in inquiries into his eligibility and still faces the uncertainty of a vote in the military-appointed Senate

More than a month has passed since Thai voters went to the polls to choose their next government. Yet the country remains in limbo, with little clarity about whether the most popular party will be able to take power and with its leader placed under investigation.

The progressive Move Forward party stunned many observers by winning the most seats in May's election after promising change in a country that has been ruled by coup-maker Prayuth Chan-ocha for nine years. Move Forward, which is hugely popular among younger voters, has since announced it has agreed to form a coalition with other opposition parties.

But Thailand's election rules, combined with a legal case hanging over the party's leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, means its path to power is uncertain.