Over four decades, efforts to decentralize power to local authorities in Thailand have faced significant challenges, with progress often hindered by stumbling blocks. Despite some advances, repeated political conflict has consistently held back progress, making the dream of true decentralisation elusive.

<p>On the night of 5 June, as MPs and senators were called up one by one to cast their vote to choose a Prime Minister, Bhumjaithai&rsquo;s Sisaket MP Siripong Angkasakulkiat chose to abstain from voting rather than following his party whip and vote for Gen Prayut.&nbsp;</p>