Front-Runner Withdraws From Thai Race
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BANGKOK, Thailand — The front-runner for prime minister bowed out today, another politician said, following allegations by the U.S. government that he was involved in drug dealings.
The general who toppled a democratically elected government last year was now the favorite candidate for prime minister.
Narong Wongwan’s Sammakkhi Tham party emerged victorious in general elections March 22 and a coalition of five pro-military parties announced he would seek the prime ministership.
But Narong’s chances appeared slim after the U.S. State Department revealed his application for a visa had been turned down in 1991 because of suspected involvement in the drug trade. Narong has maintained his innocence.
Montri Pongpanich, leader of the Social Action Party, told reporters Narong had decided to withdraw his candidacy. The five-party coalition would back army commander-in-chief Gen. Suchinda Kraprayoon for the post, he said.
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