BANGKOK, Oct. 31 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's opposition Pheu Thai Party elected Julapun Amornvivat, member of parliament and former deputy finance minister, as its new leader on Friday in a major strategic shift ahead of the next general election.
Julapun secured a majority of votes during the party's extraordinary general meeting. In his address to the meeting, he agreed that reform is essential, noting that the world and Thai politics are constantly evolving, and the needs of the people are shifting. Therefore, restructuring the party is not an option but a necessity.
Outlining the party's direction, he said that candidate selection for upcoming elections must align with the needs of the people. Policy development must revisit and refine proposals that resonate with the public and address their concerns.
The 50-year-old Julapun, a member of parliament for Chiang Mai, has held multiple terms in the House of Representatives and served as deputy minister of finance in the previous two Pheu Thai-led governments.
The election comes following the resignation of former leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who stepped down earlier this month, citing her intention to initiate a comprehensive "overhaul" of the party before the next election.
Despite Paetongtarn's resignation, she confirmed that she will remain a party member and "Head of the Pheu Thai Family," promising to help build a new era for the party. ■
