Lawmakers in Thailand have ended months of political uncertainty by electing a new leader, entrusting political newcomer Srettha Thavisin, from the Pheu Thai Party, to steer the country out of turmoil.

The decision comes a day after Pheu Thai agreed to form a coalition with camps linked to the military, which toppled the party in a coup nine years ago.

Srettha was the only candidate in Tuesday's vote by the bicameral parliament. He earned the support of two conservative parties with close ties to the military, as well as military-appointed senators.

The prime ministerial vote came after three months of political twists and turns. Although Pheu Thai came second in Thailand's May election, it was able to form government after conservative legislators blocked the winning Move Forward party from taking office.