Episode 19

full
Published on:

12th Jun 2026

The "Almost Prime Minister" | Pita Limjaroenrat

The "Almost Prime Minister" | Pita Limjaroenrat

In this episode of Policy Pod with Deep Dive, Master of Public Policy students Marc Naro and Richard Heydarian sit down with Pita Limjaroenrat, the former leader of Thailand's Move Forward Party and the man widely seen as Thailand's "almost prime minister."

Following his party's landmark victory in the 2023 general election, Pita appeared poised to lead Thailand's next government. Yet despite winning the popular mandate, a complex political and institutional process prevented him from taking office.

Together, they explore Thailand's democratic trajectory, the relationship between electoral legitimacy and political power, the role of institutions in democratic governance, and the challenges facing reform-minded leaders in an era of political polarization. Pita also reflects on his personal journey, the future of Thai politics, and the lessons his experience offers for democracies around the world.

A fascinating conversation on democracy, leadership, and what happens when winning an election is not enough to govern.

Next Episode All Episodes Previous Episode

Listen for free

Show artwork for Oxford Policy Pod

About the Podcast

Oxford Policy Pod
A policy podcast from students at the Blavatnik School of Government
A bi-weekly policy podcast based out of the Blavatnik School of Government at the University of Oxford. The Oxford Policy Pod explores pressing policy issues around the globe and is produced by students reading for a Master of Public Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government.

The podcast explores contemporary policy challenges that policymakers face all over the world, and taps into the rich diversity of policy experience and insights of the student body and faculty.

The podcast is supported by the staff of the Blavatnik School of Government.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the students, speakers and featured guests only. They do not represent the views or position of featured organisations, or the Blavatnik School of Government and the University of Oxford.

To keep up with the latest on our episodes, follow us on Instagram @OxfordPolicyPod_ and Twitter @OxfordPolicyPod.