BANGKOK, Thailand: Thailand’s new Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has officially taken office at the age of 37, making her the youngest leader in the country’s history.
Her ascension follows a period of intense political upheaval, marked by the recent sacking of the previous premier, Srettha Thavisin, by the Constitutional Court. Thavisin was dismissed for breaching ethics rules, specifically for appointing a cabinet minister with a criminal conviction.
Paetongtarn, daughter of the controversial former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, has assumed the role with a promise to rejuvenate Thailand’s struggling economy, which has been slow to recover from the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.
In her inaugural address, she emphasized the need for collaboration across all sectors of Thai society, stating that her government would work with an open heart and engage all talented individuals in the country to drive development.
Despite her father’s political influence, Paetongtarn has pledged to maintain her independence. She stated that while she values Thaksin’s advice, she is committed to pursuing her own goals and ideas. Thaksin, who attended the swearing-in ceremony, expressed his support for his daughter, highlighting her youth and humility as strengths.
Paetongtarn leads a coalition government formed by her Pheu Thai party, which continues the political legacy of her father. This coalition includes pro-military groups, reflecting a complex political landscape where factions aligned with Thaksin’s legacy frequently clash with conservative and pro-military elements.
The new Prime Minister’s tenure will be closely scrutinized for any signs of her father’s influence and her ability to navigate Thailand’s entrenched political divisions. With the political scene often marred by coups and court rulings, Paetongtarn faces significant challenges in stabilizing the country and addressing its economic issues.
