Thailand Begins Complex Senate Selection Process Amid Political Tensions

New Senate selection marks a pivotal moment in the struggle between progressive reformers and conservative forces.

Candidates are registering nationwide for 200 Senate seats in a process involving district, provincial, and national rounds.
The 2017 Constitution, established by a military regime, mandates the Senate's significant role in approving legislation.
Critics argue the intricate selection process is designed to limit public participation and maintain bureaucratic control.
The new senators will retain legislative approval powers but will no longer participate in selecting the prime minister.
Civil society groups are mobilizing to educate and encourage reform-minded candidates to engage in the selection process.