Paetongtarn Shinawatra Named Thailand’s Youngest Prime Minister

World

Thailand's parliament has selected Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter of billionaire tycoon and former leader Thaksin Shinawatra, as the country's new prime minister. At 37, she becomes Thailand's youngest prime minister and the second woman to hold the post, following in the footsteps of her aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra.

Her appointment comes just two days after the dismissal of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin by a constitutional court ruling. Both leaders hail from the Pheu Thai Party, which, despite coming second in the 2023 election, succeeded in forming a ruling coalition.

Paetongtarn faces the daunting challenge of rejuvenating Thailand's stalled economy while navigating the political turbulence that has historically plagued her party. The Pheu Thai Party has seen four of its previous administrations deposed through military coups or court interventions over the past two decades, including those led by Paetongtarn's father Thaksin and aunt Yingluck.

Securing 319 endorsements against 145 opposing votes, Paetongtarn marks the fourth member of the Shinawatra family to assume the role of prime minister. Her rise to power underscores the enduring influence of the Shinawatra family in Thai politics, despite repeated attempts by the military and judiciary to curb their dominance.

The constitutional court's recent decision to remove Mr. Thavisin stemmed from his appointment of a former lawyer with a criminal record to his cabinet, further complicating the political landscape Paetongtarn now inherits. As she steps into her new role, the young leader must work to stabilize the country’s political environment and deliver on promises of economic revitalization amidst significant challenges.