Thai reformist Pita’s PM bid crashes

Thai reformist leader Pita Limjaroenrat's bid to become prime minister ended yesterday, despite his party winning the most votes in May elections, after the military and pro-royalist establishment blocked his bid for power.

The 42-year-old was dramatically suspended from parliament while seated in the chamber for discussions on his candidacy, which came to an end when lawmakers voted to refuse considering him for a second ballot.

Pita's suspension came when Thailand's Consitutional Court said it would proceed with a case that could see the leader disqualified from parliament altogether for owning shares in a media company.

Lawmakers are forbidden from doing so under Thailand's constitution, though the television station in question has not broadcast since 2007.