Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra Takes Office Following Royal Approval
BANGKOK—Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of former leader Thaksin Shinawatra, was officially appointed as Thailand’s prime minister on Sunday through a royal endorsement, following her selection by Parliament. This appointment came two days after a court ruling removed her predecessor.
She takes over leadership of a coalition government that includes military parties associated with the coup that ousted the party’s previous government. Paetongtarn is the third member of the Shinawatra family to hold the position, following in the footsteps of her father Thaksin and her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra.
During a ceremony at the party’s headquarters in Bangkok, Paetongtarn received the letter of appointment. The event was attended by senior members of the governing coalition and her father Thaksin, who is considered the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai Party.
Paetongtarn expressed gratitude to the king, the Thai people, and lawmakers, stating that she will carry out her responsibilities with an open mind. She emphasized her commitment to creating a space in Thailand that empowers its citizens to dream, create, and shape their own future.
Paetongtarn assumed the role of Prime Minister following the removal of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin by the Constitutional Court. She is the second female prime minister in Thailand’s history and, at 37 years old, the youngest leader.
In her remarks to reporters after the ceremony, Paetongtarn outlined her commitment to key policies such as economic stimulus, enhancing universal health care, and promoting Thailand’s cultural influence globally.
Regarding Srettha’s proposed digital cash handout initiative, Paetongtarn did not initially address it, citing the need to further evaluate and listen to feedback before making decisions.
Paetongtarn mentioned seeking her father’s advice when needed, but emphasized her independence in decision-making. She highlighted her determination to achieve personal goals while valuing her father’s input.
Pheu Thai, affiliated with Thaksin, has a history of electoral success despite facing challenges from opposing factions. The political landscape in Thailand has been marked by longstanding divisions, with Thaksin’s influence remaining significant.
Thaksin’s return from exile and his interactions with the legal system have garnered attention, with recent developments indicating a level of political maneuvering aimed at limiting his activities.
By Jintamas Saksornchai
