Property tycoon bids to emerge from turmoil as Thailand’s leader

While backed by a coalition of populist and conservative parties, the fate of Srettha Thavisin rests on the military-appointed Senate, whose 250 members vote in a joint assembly with 500 elected lawmakers. - Photo: AFP

BANGKOK (Bloomberg): Srettha Thavisin, a former property tycoon and a political newcomer, is set to take a shot at becoming Thailand’s next prime minister in a vote scheduled on Tuesday that may help resolve a monthslong political impasse.

While backed by a coalition of populist and conservative parties, Srettha’s fate rests on the military-appointed Senate, whose 250 members vote in a joint assembly with 500 elected lawmakers.