Thailand has voted in an early election called after multiple coalition governments collapsed, giving the country three prime ministers in as many years.
Just like in 2023, this election pits those advocating far-reaching change, the People's Party, against conservative forces led by incumbent PM Anutin Charnavirakul.
When the young reformers won last time, the military-appointed senate barred them from forming a government, and the constitutional court dissolved the party. Powerful, unelected forces have repeatedly intervened to block parties challenging the status quo in Thailand.
Results will become clear around 22:00 local time (15:00 GMT), but no party is likely to win a majority.
The big question hanging over this election is how well the People's Party, which has been leading the polls, performs.
Facing a strong challenge from Anutin, who has built his once small, provincial Bhumjaithai - 'Thai Pride' party, into the standard-bearer for Thai conservatives, the reformists are met with a rich political backdrop.
Both Bhumjaithai and Pheu Thai have offered subsidies and cash handouts to voters. However, Pheu Thai is expected to lose significant support this election after its last coalition administration was accused of mishandling the conflict with Cambodia, and its patriarch, former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, was jailed.
Thais were voting throughout Sunday, navigating concerns over political instability and rising costs affecting the economy.
For the People's Party, led by Nattaphong Ruengpanyawut, promises of curbing the power of big businesses and military, streamlining bureaucracy, and modernizing the education system signal a transformative agenda.
However, simply winning an election is not enough in Thailand.
Concerns are raised about potential interventions by the constitutional court, as seen in the past with previous parties facing disbandment. If the People's Party exceeds the 151 seats they won in 2023, forming a government could be challenging yet possible amid uncertainty of conservative opposition.
In addition to voting for representatives, Thais are also voting in a referendum to reform the 2017 constitution, which many believe has concentrated too much power in unelected bodies.
Ultimately, Thai voters face a crucial decision: embracing sweeping change or accepting the status quo that brought them here.
