Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter of former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, has made history by becoming Thailand’s youngest Prime Minister. Her appointment marks a significant milestone in the country’s political landscape as she steps into the role following the dismissal of Srettha Thavisin by Thailand’s Constitutional Court for serious ethical violations.
Srettha Thavisin, who was found guilty of failing to maintain ethical standards during his tenure, expressed his regret over the court’s decision. “It is with great sorrow that I leave this position, which I have held with the utmost integrity and honesty,” Srettha said in his final statement as Prime Minister.
Paetongtarn’s rise to power is not only significant due to her age but also because of her strong political lineage. Born on August 21, 1986, Paetongtarn Shinawatra is the youngest daughter of Thaksin Shinawatra, a business tycoon who served as Thailand’s Prime Minister from 2001 to 2006. Her aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra, also held the Prime Minister position from 2011 to 2014, making Paetongtarn the third member of her family to lead the country.
Paetongtarn grew up amidst the political turmoil that often surrounded her family, particularly after her father’s controversial ousting in a military coup in 2006. Despite the challenges, she pursued higher education with determination, earning a degree in International Business Management from Chulalongkorn University and a Master’s degree in Hospitality from the University of Surrey in the UK.
Before entering politics, Paetongtarn was involved in her family’s business empire, particularly in the real estate sector, where she gained valuable experience in leadership and management. Her transition into politics was seen as a continuation of the Shinawatra legacy, with many expecting her to bring a new perspective to the political scene in Thailand.
In her inaugural speech as Prime Minister, Paetongtarn emphasized the importance of unity and reform in moving Thailand forward. “I am deeply honored to take on this responsibility, and I am committed to ensuring that the government serves all the people of Thailand with fairness, transparency, and a vision for the future,” she said.
As Thailand’s youngest Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra faces the challenge of not only leading a nation with a complex political history but also living up to the expectations set by her family’s legacy. Her leadership will be closely watched as she navigates the nation through its current political and economic challenges.