BANGKOK: Thailand is gearing up for a general election Feb 8, which could usher in the fourth prime minister in three years. The snap vote is expected to produce a coalition government, heightening the risk of continued political instability.
Political upheaval has become the norm over the last two decades. A series of short-lived administrations have been ousted by the military or courts in a drama dominated by power struggle between the populist billionaire Thaksin Shinawatra and the military-royalist establishment.
That uncertainty has been a drag on the economy, with growth forecasts repeatedly downgraded, the baht near the highest in almost five years - hurting exports and tourism - and stocks posting a third year of declines. Bangkok is also grappling with a border clash with neighbor Cambodia.
Up for grabs are all 500 seats in the House of Representatives, which picks the next prime minister. In a crowded field with dozens of candidates from over 30 parties, here are the top contenders:
Anutin Charnvirakul, 59
Anutin has the adva
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