BANGKOK - The elder sister of Thailand's king is running to become prime minister, it has been announced.
The decision is unprecedented as it marks a move away from tradition which dictates the country's royals do not play a role in politics.
Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya Sirivadhana Barnavadi, the sister of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, will run as a candidate for the Thai Raksa Chart party.
The party is loyal to ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and is attempting to defeat Prayuth Chan-ocha, the leader of Thailand's military junta, in the election on 24 March.
The election is seen by many as a battle between Mr Thaksin's populists and allies and the royalist-military establishment.
But the nomination of Princess Ubolratana, 67, by Thai Raksa Chart could challenge the dynamic of the election.
It is not known if Princess Ubolratana's candidacy has the blessing of King Maha Vajiralongkorn.
Despite being a constitutional monarchy since 1932, the royal family remains extremely influential across the country.
Thai Raksa Chart's leader Preechapol Pongpanich said: "The party has nominated the princess as its sole candidate.(FA)