In a dramatic turn of events, Thailand’s parliament elected Paetongtarn Shinawatra as its youngest prime minister at the age of 37.
This decision comes amid a turbulent political climate and follows the abrupt dismissal of her ally, Srettha Thavisin.
THE NEW PRIME MINISTER
Paetongtarn is the daughter of the controversial former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. She won the parliamentary vote with overwhelming support.
Her election marks a significant moment in Thai politics, as she becomes the second female prime minister in the country’s history.
She is also the third member of the Shinawatra family to hold the top job, according to Aljazeera.
“I am honoured and feel very happy,” Paetongtarn said after she won the election.
THE NEW PRIME MINISTER AND THAILAND’S POWER STRUGGLE
She added, “It’s time to do something for the country and the party.
I hope to make a positive impact and drive Thailand forward.”
Her ascent to power followed less than 48 hours after the judiciary ousted Srettha.
This was a move that has intensified the ongoing power struggle among Thailand’s elite, according to Reuters.
THE NEW PRIME MINISTER’S POLITAL DEBUT
Srettha’s departure was a stark reminder of the instability that has plagued the nation for years.
Paetongtarn’s political debut is a high-stakes gamble. With no previous government experience, she faces significant challenges.
The Thai economy is struggling, and her party, Pheu Thai, has yet to deliver on its ambitious cash handout programme.
PAETONGTARN STEPS UP
The situation is compounded by growing competition from rival parties.
Analysts are closely watching prime minister Paetongtarn’s next steps.
Nattabhorn Buamahakul, Managing Partner at Vero Advocacy, noted, “This is a huge risk for the Shinawatras.”
“Paetongtarn is stepping into a very challenging environment. The pressures are immense.” The political landscape in Thailand has been volatile.
THE ONGOING CONFLICT
The dissolution of the anti-establishment Move Forward Party by the same court that dismissed Srettha has further destabilised the situation.
This court ruling also highlighted the ongoing conflict between progressive forces and the conservative establishment.
Prime minister Paetongtarn’s family has been at the centre of this struggle.
THE ELECTION
Thaksin Shinawatra served as prime minister before the judiciary ousted him, according to Washington Post.
His sister Yingluck, who also faced a military coup, have both seen their political careers come to abrupt ends.
Their daughter’s new role puts her directly in the spotlight.
Her election was celebrated on social media, with Paetongtarn sharing a simple yet symbolic post: a photo of her lunch – chicken rice. The caption read, “The first meal after listening to the vote.”
Despite the celebrations, the road ahead is fraught with challenges.
THE NEW PRIME MINISTER AND THE ECONOMIC ISSUES
The Pheu Thai party’s popularity has waned, and the new prime minister must work quickly to regain public support and tackle the economic issues facing the nation.
“The stakes are high,” said Titipol Phakdeewanich, a political scientist.
“If Paetongtarn cannot stabilise the economy and revitalise her party, it could mark the end of the Shinawatra dynasty.”
THE THAI PEOPLE
As Paetongtarn Shinawatra embarks on her premiership, all eyes will be on her ability to navigate Thailand’s complex political and economic landscape.
The coming months will be crucial in determining whether she can rise to the occasion and deliver on the promises made to the Thai people.
HOW SIGNIFICANT DO YOU THINK HER VICTORY IS FOR THAI POLITICS?
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