Last updated on August 22nd, 2024 at 12:22 pm
• Pheu Thai Party nominates PAETONGTARN SHINAWATRA, daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, as their candidate for Thailand’s next prime minister.
• Coalition parties have united behind Paetongtarn following the dismissal of Srettha Thavisin.
• Paetongtarn promises to address Thailand’s economic challenges while under the shadow of her father’s political legacy.
BANGKOK, THAILAND — In a significant turn of events, the Pheu Thai Party has put forward PAETONGTARN SHINAWATRA, the 37-year-old daughter of former Prime Minister THAKSIN SHINAWATRA, as their nominee for Thailand’s next prime minister. This decision follows the dismissal of SRETTHA THAVISIN by the Constitutional Court for an ethical breach.
If confirmed, Paetongtarn will become the youngest prime minister in Thailand’s history and the third member of the Shinawatra family to hold this position. Her nomination underscores the ongoing influence of the Shinawatra dynasty in Thai politics, despite the political challenges that have faced her predecessors.
The announcement was somewhat surprising, as earlier reports suggested that CHAISKASEM NITISIRI, a former justice minister, would be the nominee. However, opposition within coalition parties led to the shift towards Paetongtarn, who has pledged to focus on resolving the country’s economic woes.
Paetongtarn’s nomination has garnered the support of the coalition, including Bhumjaithai Party leader ANUTIN CHARNVIRAKUL, known for his role in the legalization of cannabis in Thailand. With 312 MPs backing her in the 493-seat House, her path to the premiership seems promising.
Paetongtarn, who holds significant business interests, will need to step back from her corporate roles to assume the prime ministerial position. Her appointment is expected to continue the Shinawatra family’s controversial legacy in Thai politics, but she has expressed her commitment to bringing Thailand out of its economic crisis.
As the political landscape in Thailand remains volatile, Paetongtarn’s leadership will be closely watched, especially regarding her policies and the influence of her father, who has been a divisive figure in Thai politics.
Contributing Sources: Bangkok Post
