Thailand has a new Prime Minister: Paetongtarn Shinawatra, a member of the nation’s most prominent political dynasty. At 37, she is the youngest person to hold the office and the third Shinawatra to become premier. Her ascension to power comes amidst a backdrop of family history marred by political turmoil, including military coups and prolonged power struggles.
Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the youngest child of Thaksin Shinawatra—a former policeman who transformed into a telecoms tycoon and changed Thai politics—brings both youthful energy and a storied family legacy to her new role. She replaces Srettha Thavisin, who was dismissed by the Constitutional Court for appointing a cabinet minister with a criminal conviction.
Entering politics just two years ago, Paetongtarn has swiftly risen through the ranks. Before her political career, she was involved in the family business’s hotel sector. Despite being heavily pregnant, she was actively present on the campaign trail, even giving birth to her son two weeks before the election, which she dubbed her “secret power.”
Her party, Pheu Thai, initially faced defeat in the last election to the progressive Move Forward Party, marking the first time a Shinawatra-affiliated party had lost a national vote. However, Pheu Thai ultimately secured victory as Srettha allied with pro-military parties. In October 2023, Pheu Thai members elected Paetongtarn as party leader, signaling a shift towards rejuvenation.
Paetongtarn, known by her nickname Ung Ing, was born on August 21, 1986, in Bangkok. She pursued hotel management studies in Britain and married commercial pilot Pidok Sooksawas in 2019, with celebrations in both Bangkok and Hong Kong. The couple has two children, who frequently appear in her social media posts.
Her selection as the PM candidate over veteran Chaikasem Nitisiri underscores Pheu Thai’s strategy to align with youthful vigor. Despite her fresh approach, political analysts anticipate challenges in overcoming the entrenched conservative and military influences that have long dominated Thai politics. Observers will also be watching for any signs of her father Thaksin’s influence on her administration, given his complex relationship with Thai politics and the Pheu Thai party.
Sources By Agencies
