Military overthrew Prime Minister Chatichak Choonhavan
The coup was led by the national peace council.
The military accused Chatchai’s government of corruption and inefficiency.
Although the military promised to restore democracy, it maintained strong control.
Led to protests and the 1992 Black May incident.
Causes
Military accused the government of corruption (“buffet cabinet”).
Fear that politicians were weakening military power.
Tension between elected politicians and military elites.
Claim that the government threatened national stability.
Aftermath
Military formed the National Peace Keeping Council (NPKC).
A civilian PM was appointed but controlled by the military.
Led to Black May 1992, where protests were violently suppressed.
Resulted in calls for democracy and civilian leadership.
The military ousted Thanksin while he was attending a UN meeting in New York.
Conducted by the Council for Democratic Reform, led by general Sonthi Boonyaratglin.
Reasons given: allegations of corruption, abuse of power, and political divisions.
The constitution was suspended and material law was declared.
A new interim constitution was and a military-backed government was formed.
Causes
Accusations of corruption and abuse of power.
Strong political polarization between Thaksin supporters and opponents.
Conflict with the monarchy-linked elites.
Massive street protests by People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD).
Aftermath
Constitution of 1997 was abolished.
Military-appointed government took over.
New constitution in 2007 reduced power of elected politicians.
Political division continued (Red Shirts vs Yellow Shirts).
The military seized power from Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, Thaksin’s sister.
Carried out by General Prayut Chan-o-cha, commander of the Royal Thai Army.
It took place after months of anti-government protests and political deadlock.
The National Council of Peace and Order (คสช) was formed to govern the country.
Political gatherings were banned, the constitution was suspended, and the media was heavily censored.
Prayut later became Minister after the 2019 election under a military drafted constitution.
Causes
Prolonged political protests and government paralysis.
Court removed Yingluck for abuse of power.
Deep conflict between pro-Thaksin and anti-Thaksin groups.
Military claimed need to restore order and stability.
Aftermath
Military formed the NCPO (National Council for Peace and Order).
Political activities and free speech were restricted.
New constitution in 2017 strengthened military influence.
Elections held in 2019 but military-backed government remained in power.