BANGKOK – Thailand's Election Commission on Wednesday endorsed 200 new senators, revealing a new legislative body that analysts say could make it harder for the embattled ruling Pheu Thai party to govern.

The new upper house will not have a role in voting to approve who becomes prime minister but will retain the power to vet laws and appoint crucial members of powerful organizations like the Election Commission and the Constitutional Court.

Election Commission Secretary-General Sawaeng Boonmee said that there had been a delay in announcing the results of a complex senate selection process that ended last month because of a number of complaints, which have now been examined.

"The Election Commission has passed a resolution to endorse 200 senators," Sawaeng told reporters.

ALSO READ: Srettha Thavisin elected as Thailand's new prime minister

Provisional results of the senate selection showed an upper house lacking key Pheu Thai affiliates while marking a gain for its largest coalition partner, Bhumjaithai, said analysts.

The new senate, which starts a five-year term this month, also reflects the waning influence of Pheu Thai patriarch and former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra whose parties have dominated Thailand's politics till last year's election.

Pheu Thai was trounced by the Move Forward in the 2023 elections but the winner wasn't able to take power after it was blocked by the outgoing senate. Instead, Pheu Thai formed the government with the help of rival parties and others including Bhumjaithai, which was also part of the previous ruling coalition.

READ MORE: Thai court accepts case seeking to dissolve Move Forward Party

Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul is currently deputy prime minister and interior minister.