'If its for the best' - Pita says he will withdraw from Thai PM race if he loses next vote

Pita Limjaroenrat failed on Thursday to reach the needed majority to become the country’s next prime minister. - Reuters photo

BANGKOK (AFP): The liberal frontrunner to become Thailand's next prime minister said Saturday he would withdraw his candidacy if parliament did not endorse him next week, after military-appointed lawmakers foiled his first attempt.

Pita Limjaroenrat's Move Forward Party (MFP) won the most seats in May elections, buoyed by young Thais eager for progressive reforms after nine years of army-backed rule in the kingdom.