• Anutin Charnvirakul has officially taken office as Thailand's Prime Minister following royal endorsement.
• He has pledged to lead the government towards fresh elections within four months.
• The new PM previously served in various ministerial roles and is known for cannabis decriminalisation.
• This marks a significant shift in power away from the Shinawatra political dynasty.
• Key cabinet appointments have been made, focusing on experienced figures for crucial ministries.

Thai tycoon Anutin Charnvirakul officially took office as Prime Minister on Sunday after receiving royal endorsement from King Maha Vajiralongkorn, marking a new chapter in Thailand's political landscape. His appointment follows the parliamentary confirmation that saw him cobble together a coalition government to oust the Pheu Thai party, long dominated by the Shinawatra family, amid a backdrop of legal and political challenges, according to Channel News Asia and Bangkok Post.

In his inaugural speech, Anutin emphasized that his government would prioritize dissolving parliament within four months to pave the way for fresh elections, a demand set by the People’s Party, which holds a significant number of seats. Anutin confirmed he would work “tirelessly” and “with morality” for the people of Thailand, reflecting the urgency of political stability following recent turmoil, reports South China Morning Post and Al Jazeera.

During the transition, Anutin named seasoned politicians to key cabinet roles, including Ekniti Nitithanprapas for finance, Auttapol Rerkpiboon for energy, and Sihasak Phuangketkeow for foreign affairs, aiming to restore confidence in the government and its handling of pressing economic challenges. His commitment to transparent governance also echoed in his promises to avoid favoritism and ensure fair application of the law, according to Bangkok Post and Dawn.

Anutin's rise follows the abrupt removal of Paetongtarn Shinawatra as Prime Minister, which stemmed from a court ruling that has further weakened the Shinawatra dynasty's hold on power. Observers note that this administration must navigate complex political dynamics, especially with a looming Supreme Court ruling that could affect the legal status of Thaksin Shinawatra, the family's patriarch who left Thailand shortly before Anutin's confirmation, according to Dawn and Channel News Asia.