Paetongtarn Becomes Thailand’s Youngest Prime Minister

The political landscape in Thailand has just taken a big turn as 37-year-old Paetongtarn Shinawatra, known as Ing Shin, was elected as the youngest Prime Minister in the country’s history. This comes shortly after the dismissal of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who was ordered out of office by a court ruling.

Paetongtarn is the daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, and her family has been a significant part of Thailand’s political scene for over two decades. Following her nomination, she stated, “The country has to move ahead,” signaling her readiness to tackle the challenges ahead.

Born in Bangkok, Paetongtarn graduated from Chulalongkorn University in Political Science, Sociology, and Anthropology before earning her master’s in International Hotel Management from the University of Surrey in England. Despite her lack of experience in government roles, she has quickly risen through the ranks of the Pheu Thai Party, becoming a prominent candidate for Prime Minister.

Her journey in politics began just two years ago when she was elected as the ‘Head of the Pheu Thai Family.’ She was one of the candidates nominated for Prime Minister during the 2023 elections, alongside Srettha and Justice Minister Chaikasem Nitisiri. Paetongtarn acknowledged her family’s deep connections to Thai politics, stating that her life has been intertwined with it since she was eight.

The Pheu Thai Party, which holds a majority in parliament, has managed to secure her position amidst ongoing political uncertainty, especially with alliances formed with military factions. This is a significant move, as her family’s previous governments have faced military coups and judicial challenges in the past.

Political experts expect her to face intense scrutiny and pressures in her new role, with many suggesting that she’ll need to lean on her father’s experiences. Thaksin, well-known in Thailand, previously served as Prime Minister until he was ousted in a 2006 coup. Paetongtarn now aims to navigate her government away from the history of military takeovers surrounding her family.

As she embarks on her time in office, one of her key promises includes addressing the economy and public services in Bangkok, issues that resonate deeply with many Thai citizens. Her election marks a new chapter for the Pheu Thai Party and potentially sets the stage for future generations of the Shinawatra political dynasty.