Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra recently stood before the press at the Shinawatra 3 Building, acknowledging the coalition parties’ unanimous decision to rally behind her nomination for the role of prime minister. The 37-year-old daughter of the influential former premier Thaksin Shinawatra is poised to make history as the nation’s youngest leader if her nomination passes when the House of Representatives convenes on Friday.
Ms. Paetongtarn is set to follow in the familiar footsteps of her father, Thaksin, and her aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra, creating a fascinating family legacy in Thai politics. Her ascension marks a dramatic turn of events following the recent dismissal of Srettha Thavisin by the Constitutional Court over an ethics violation.
Interestingly, the announcement of her candidacy caught many by surprise, considering that just a day before, significant figures from the coalition gathered at Thaksin’s residence had initially leaned towards Chaikasem Nitisiri, a seasoned 75-year-old with extensive legal credentials. However, by Thursday morning, opposition voices within the coalition and amongst Pheu Thai MPs brought to light Mr. Chaikasem’s controversial stance on amending the lese majeste law, a touchy subject that has previously led to severe political fallout.
After much internal turmoil, the Pheu Thai executive board pivoted and chose Ms. Paetongtarn as their leading candidate. Grateful for the support, she promised at the press conference, “I will do my utmost to navigate our nation out of its economic challenges.” Expressing regret over Mr. Srettha’s untimely removal, she paid homage to his hard work during his tenure.
Standing by her side were representatives from the coalition’s other heavyweights, including Bhumjaithai, Palang Pracharath, Chartthaipattana, Prachachat, Chart Pattana Kla, Sereeruamthai, and Thai Ruamphalang parties, which together command 314 seats in the 493-member House. This robust support significantly boosts her odds of confirmation.
Moreover, Ms. Paetongtarn draws strength from familial wisdom, acknowledging that her father, with his wealth of prime ministerial experience, stands ready to guide her through the intricacies of governance. This sentiment was echoed by acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, who underscored the party’s consolidated backing for her.
Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul, previously tipped as a strong contender for the top job, reiterated his party’s allegiance to support whomever Pheu Thai presents. With such unequivocal backing, Ms. Paetongtarn enjoys a favorable position heading into Friday’s crucial vote.
Ms. Paetongtarn’s educational pedigree adds further weight to her nomination. With a bachelor’s in political science from Chulalongkorn University and a master’s in international hotel management from the University of Surrey, she brings to the table a blend of political acumen and business savvy.
Not just a political figure, Ms. Paetongtarn is also an influential businesswoman, holding a 28.5% stake in SC Asset Corp, a leading real estate developer once helmed by her aunt, Yingluck. She also steers the hotel division at Rende Development Co, under the leadership of her sister Pintongta, with the luxurious Rosewood Hotel in Bangkok highlighting their portfolio.
However, to don the premier’s mantle, she must first navigate the maze of share ownership restrictions and relinquish her business roles—a small price for steering the nation. Balancing her public responsibilities with private life, she remains grounded by her husband, Pitaka Suksawat, and their two young children, who have already witnessed her relentless campaigning firsthand.
All eyes now turn to the House of Representatives, where a simple majority of the 493 members will determine her fate. As the session kicks off at 10 a.m. on Friday, the nation teeters on the brink of what could be a transformative chapter under the stewardship of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who stands ready to script history.
Yet another Shinawatra in power! This almost feels like a monarchy at this point.
Why is it a problem if they’re effective? Thailand’s economy improved under Thaksin and Yingluck.
Their terms were filled with corruption. We need fresh blood, not dynasty politics.
It’s ironic people are okay with dynastic politics until they actually step outside the family.
Her educational background seems quite solid. Let’s give her a chance before jumping to conclusions.
Education doesn’t necessarily translate to governing effectively. Look at Thaksin and Yingluck’s mixed results.
True, but starting off with knowledge in political science and business can’t hurt.
Agreed. Education should be a basic requirement for leadership roles, especially in politics.
It’s also about practical experience. She does have a strong business background, but politics is a whole different beast.
How can we trust someone who’s going to be guided by their father? She needs to stand on her own two feet.
Maybe she’ll bring fresh perspectives while still leveraging her father’s knowledge. Isn’t mentorship crucial?
Mentorship is different from being a puppet. I worry she’ll just be an extension of Thaksin.
I can’t believe they dumped Chaikasem for her. What a joke!
Chaikasem’s stance on lese majeste law was very controversial. It’s a highly sensitive issue.
Still, experience should have outweighed that. We’re risking instability by opting for a novice.
I’m so excited to see a woman become the prime minister! High time we had more female leaders.
Another case of nepotism in politics. When will we ever learn?
How is it nepotism if she was chosen by the coalition parties? They must see something in her.
Just because they chose her doesn’t mean they aren’t influenced. There’s too much family history here.
If she can balance her business and political roles, it will be impressive. But can she?
She has to give up her business roles. Conflict of interest and all that.
Exactly, but will she be able to let go completely? That’s the question.
While new leadership is refreshing, the underlying power dynamics and familial ties are concerning.
Could this be a move to merely maintain Shinawatra’s influence behind the scenes?
Possibly. It’s not unheard of in politics. Control without holding the official title.
I’m just glad someone is going to focus on the economic challenges. We need serious solutions now more than ever.
I hope she follows through. Words are easy; actions are what count.
I hope she works on education reform. That’s been ignored for far too long.
Yes! Education reform is crucial for a country’s future. Glad someone else sees it.
How can she govern effectively while balancing two young children? It’s an incredibly demanding role.
This is a total setup. Watch them use her as a scapegoat if things go south.
A master’s in international hotel management? Sounds random for a PM role.
Diverse backgrounds can bring fresh perspectives. Plus, it’s her political science degree that’s more relevant.
And she has political experience through her family’s legacy. Let’s not discount that.
Fair enough. I just hope the business angle doesn’t overshadow her political duties.