In a momentous occasion at the new headquarters of the Pheu Thai Party on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, Paetongtarn “Ung Ing” Shinawatra, Thailand’s prime minister-elect, greeted her supporters and the media with boundless enthusiasm. This came after the House of Representatives’ historic vote, making her the country’s 31st prime minister on Friday. (Photo: Nutthawat Wichieanbut).
At just 37 years old, Ms. Paetongtarn is not only the youngest prime minister in Thailand’s history but also a beacon of new hope. Addressing the media, she vowed to work tirelessly to create opportunities and enhance the quality of life for all Thais. The daughter of former PM Thaksin Shinawatra stood confidently in the limelight, acknowledging the monumental support from the House of Representatives.
With an impressive tally of 319 votes, which included backing from all six MPs from the opposition Thai Sang Thai Party, Ms. Paetongtarn secured her position without any competition. The final count also saw 145 votes against and 27 abstentions from the Democrat Party, the House Speaker, and the second Deputy House Speaker. Conspicuously absent were Gen Prawit Wongsuwon, leader of the coalition partner Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), and Pheu Thai list-MP Chalerm Ubamrung, who had recently dared the party to expel him.
Ms. Paetongtarn’s ascent to prime minister comes in the wake of Srettha Thavisin’s dismissal due to an ethical violation by the Constitutional Court. Following the overwhelming House endorsement, she expressed heartfelt gratitude and committed to performing her duties with the highest level of dedication and integrity. Though she refrained from commenting on government work and cabinet allocations until receiving royal approval, she firmly stated that she was ready to embrace the challenges of her new role.
Despite her own humility and acknowledgment of her limited political experience, Ms. Paetongtarn believes her motivation and commitment to teamwork are her strongest assets. “We, the Pheu Thai Party and the coalition parties, will work together to create opportunities, improve the quality of life, and empower all Thai people,” she declared confidently. “Today, I feel honored and incredibly happy. I assure you that I will give my best every single day. I believe that everything will go well.”
Ms. Paetongtarn’s election marks her as the third member of the Shinawatra family to hold the prime ministerial office, following her father Thaksin and aunt Yingluck. Additionally, Thaksin’s brother-in-law, Somchai Wongsawat, briefly occupied the role in 2008. Both Thaksin and Yingluck have since lived in exile post-military coups against their administrations.
On Thursday, coalition government parties rallied behind Ms. Paetongtarn as the consensus candidate for prime minister. During a House meeting convened by House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha at 10 am, Pheu Thai’s secretary-general Sorawong Thiengthong formally nominated her. The motion gained the support of 291 MPs, with Ms. Paetongtarn noticeably absent from the proceedings. Government and opposition MPs engaged in a spirited debate before the official voting began at 11:11 am.
Following the vote, at 5 pm, Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, President of the House of Representatives, announced to reporters that Ms. Paetongtarn’s name had been submitted to the Royal Palace for His Majesty the King’s approval, following procedural norms. “We now await royal approval, which will be notified to the Office of the Secretary-General of the House of Representatives soon,” he said.
Congratulatory messages soon poured in, including from Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, who lauded Ms. Paetongtarn’s appointment as a reflection of the Thai people’s trust and confidence in her leadership.
Thakorn Tanthasit, secretary-general of the Thai Sang Thai Party, emphasized that their support for Ms. Paetongtarn was to swiftly end the political stagnation following Mr. Srettha’s removal. He asserted that there were no hidden agendas, with party MPs keen on expediting governmental efforts to solve pressing issues faced by the populace.
Regarding internal party dynamics, Mr. Thakorn noted that he would discuss the situation with party leader Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan, who had expressed discontent over the MPs’ decision. On her Facebook page, Khunying Sudarat stated that the action diverged from the party’s ideology and ethical framework expected of an opposition party. She announced a forthcoming board meeting to deliberate on the matter.
With a mixture of anticipation and responsibility, Paetongtarn “Ung Ing” Shinawatra stands on the cusp of a new chapter for Thailand, prepared to lead with vigor, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to her nation’s future.
A 37-year-old PM? I find it hard to believe she will have the experience necessary for such a demanding role.
Youth shouldn’t be a disqualifier. Remember when Obama became president? He was relatively young too, and he did quite well!
Comparing Obama and Paetongtarn might be a stretch. Different countries, different political systems. But still, fresh perspectives can be invaluable.
Experience isn’t everything. Sometimes, new ideas and enthusiasm can bring about much-needed changes.
Fair point, Jenny, but new ideas should be balanced with a wise understanding of politics. It’s a tightrope walk.
It’s just a facade. Another Shinawatra in power? Seems like history repeating itself.
But why focus on her family? Shouldn’t we judge her based on her own merit?
Nepotism is a cancer in politics, Ronald D has a point.
I think she deserves a chance. Every leader starts somewhere, and she’s shown commitment so far.
Support for her seems strong, but I wonder how long it will last once she starts making tough decisions.
Paetongtarn could actually bridge the gap between old and new Thailand. That’s something to watch out for.
True, a new leader could mean new opportunities, but the old guard might resist any significant changes.
Realistically, who knows if she’d be able to overpower the established political machinery.
She’ll need strong allies, that’s for sure. But some shakeups could be exactly what Thailand needs.
Does anyone else get the feeling that the opposition’s support was purely strategic?
A 37-year-old leading a country? She’s bordering on being the Thai Emmanuel Macron, who tackled great challenges when he was elected.
Her familial connection will always cast a shadow over her administration. It’s unavoidable.
Perhaps, but if she’s effective, people might be willing to look past that.
It’s refreshing to see a young woman in such a prominent position. Breaking barriers is always commendable.
Nepotism, plain and simple. This isn’t the change we need.
Nepotism is everywhere. At least she seems driven to make a difference.
I’m skeptical. Her uncle and aunt both were deposed. What makes anyone think she’ll be any different?
Every leader has their destiny and challenges. Let’s not judge her by her family’s past failures.
It’s not just her age, but also her fresh perspective that can be a real game-changer.
Fresh perspectives can be a euphemism for inexperience. Just saying.
Sometimes a fresh perspective is exactly what’s needed to unearth new possibilities.
I hope she focuses on improving the economy; that’s a major issue right now.
Her age is definitely a double-edged sword. It’ll be interesting to see how she navigates this.
Will she be able to tackle corruption? That’s the million-dollar question.
Her speech was inspiring, but words need to translate into action.
Even with my reservations, I must admit she has a certain charisma. Let’s see how she performs.
I agree, charisma is half the battle in politics.
Wondering how the old political guard will take this? Can they adopt a supportive role, or will they undermine her?
Politicians rarely make sudden changes. I doubt we’ll see anything dramatic under her rule.
Her speech about teamwork and national improvement resonated with me. I think she genuinely wants to bring about positive change.