The sole nominee for Thailand's next prime minister failed to obtain enough parliamentary votes on Thursday, posing a setback for the country's democratic future following nearly a decade of military-backed rule. The vote was a crucial moment for Thailand as members of the bicameral National Assembly were expected to determine the prime minister and reveal whether the ruling establishment would accept the choice of the people who overwhelmingly voted for progressive opposition parties in the May election.

In a surprising election outcome, the newly-formed Move Forward party won the most seats and the largest share of the popular vote, capitalizing on rising anger over the country's governance. However, Move Forward's leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, received only 324 votes out of the required 376 for a majority in both houses of parliament. Another round of voting has been scheduled for a later date.

Move Forward had promised significant structural reforms, including changes to the military, economy, decentralization of power, and even reforms related to the monarchy. However, some senators and conservative parties opposed Pita's candidacy due to his party's stance on amending and abolishing Section 112, which criminalizes criticism of the royal family.

Despite the party's success at the polls, it remains uncertain who will become Thailand's next leader. The coalition led by Move Forward does not have enough seats to form a government outright, and support from the unelected Senate is necessary. Thailand's conservative establishment, comprised of the military, monarchy, and influential elites, has a history of blocking fundamental changes to the status quo.

The outcome of the parliamentary vote on Wednesday will determine whether Pita can be renominated as prime minister. If he fails to secure enough votes, coalitions may crumble, and a political deadlock could jeopardize the progressive movement's achievements, potentially leading to protests.

The election in May saw a record turnout and delivered a powerful rebuke to the military-backed establishment that has ruled Thailand since 2014. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, the current caretaker prime minister, announced his retirement, but his party's limited seats make it unlikely for him to win another term.

The Move Forward Party's victory and subsequent challenges highlight the roadblocks to progressive reforms in Thailand, as the military, monarchy, and conservative elites continue to exert influence.