It was a typical bustling May morning at the Pheu Thai Party headquarters. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, poised and composed, stood alongside the then Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Cameras flashed, recording every moment for posterity. It was clear—change was on the horizon, yet some things were staying remarkably familiar. (Photo: Pattarapong Chatpattarasill)
Fast forward to the present, and Paetongtarn Shinawatra, now the Prime Minister herself, is ready to make her first policy statement next week. “Consistency with a hint of evolution,” she assured, hinting at an approach that reveres tradition but isn’t shy of innovation. Despite the familiar threads owing to her predecessor’s administration, she’s ready to tweak certain aspects, notably the digital wallet handout programme.
On Thursday, the Prime Minister was seen dedicatedly at work in Shinawatra Tower 3, the interim stronghold for the Pheu Thai Party, meticulously crafting her policy statement. Amidst the clamor, a figure known by all, her father and former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, discreetly entered the building through an underground path, opting not to converse with curious journalists.
“We adhere largely to the policies of the previous government, ensuring continuity,” Paetongtarn explained. “However, slight changes, especially those related to the digital wallet, are inevitable.” This digital wallet, a flagship stimulus scheme initiated by Mr. Srettha, is being re-evaluated. Even Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat admitted that adjustments were necessary. Instead of strictly digital transfers, some recipients might receive cash—a subtle yet significant shift.
Investment strategies laid down by her predecessor will continue to be at the forefront of her agenda. “The core of the coalition government remains steadfast in the principles of the Pheu Thai Party, despite the change in leadership,” Paetongtarn emphasized. Her commitment to advancing international trade policies introduced under Mr. Srettha underscores her dedication to fostering economic growth and stability.
Paeotngtarn’s passion doesn’t stop there. She is open to integrating policy suggestions from other coalition parties, a draft of which she aimed to polish by the end of Thursday. This collaborative effort embodies her vision of a unified, pragmatic approach to governance.
Addressing the stirred pot of criticism regarding the new cabinet, which conspicuously includes several relatives of veteran politicians, she maintained an optimistic stance. “Family ties can bolster the efficiency and support of my ministers,” she reasoned logically.
At 38, Paetongtarn is Thailand’s youngest prime minister, a title that brings both admiration and scrutiny. “I urge the critics to give me some grace. I am determined to diligently serve our nation to the best of my abilities,” she expressed, capturing the resolve of a leader ready to carve her legacy.
The nation’s eyes will be on her as she steps into parliament to deliver her much-anticipated policy statement. According to Government Chief Whip Wisut Chainarun, the parliament has earmarked the coming Thursday and Friday for this significant event—a stage set for Paetongtarn to illustrate her leadership and vision.
Commentary: Thaksin’s ‘vision’ might be outdated
Nepotism at its finest! How can you trust someone who’s only in power because of their surname?
You underestimate her skills. Maybe give her a chance before judging.
Skills or not, it’s still a bad look for democracy. We need fresh faces, not family legacies.
Nepotism is a global issue, but competence should be the priority. If she can deliver, why not?
Interesting take on the digital wallet. This might actually help those who don’t have access to digital technologies.
True, but it also opens up the possibility of corruption. Cash can easily be mismanaged.
I agree with @thinker94, digital exclusion is a real problem in rural areas.
Convenient for her to tweak policies. Guess it’s a warm-up exercise for more nepotistic maneuvers!
Her approach to international trade sounds promising. Srettha laid a strong foundation.
International trade can make or break her tenure. Let’s see if she can handle the pressure.
Definitely. She has to balance internal dissent and international diplomacy simultaneously.
Another politician, another bunch of empty promises. I’ll believe it when I see it!
Skepticism is healthy, but let’s not be entirely dismissive. She might surprise us.
Let’s hope you’re right, but history isn’t in her favor.
Why isn’t anyone talking about her collaboration with coalition parties? Sounds like a positive step.
Family ties can also mean more trust among ministers. It’s not all bad.
Trust? Or an easy way to cover each other’s mistakes?
Being the youngest PM is both amazing and daunting. She has a lot to prove!
Exactly! Youth doesn’t equal incompetence. Let’s give her some room to show her capabilities.
Agreed. Young leaders can bring a fresh perspective. Her policies might actually be innovative.
Old policies in new clothes. Just because she’s ‘young’ doesn’t mean she’s any different from her father.
Experience from family politics can be an asset, not a flaw. Stop being so cynical.
Cynicism stems from years of political disappointment. Let’s hope for the best, though.
Economic growth sounds great, but is she considering the environmental costs?
Her shift in the digital wallet scheme is fascinating. Could redefine how we think of financial aid.
Digital wallets to cash could be a logistical nightmare. The system needs to be foolproof.
Logistical challenges are real, but it also makes aid more accessible. Balance is key.
Her idea of blending tradition with innovation could set a new standard in politics.
Critics are just wary because of her father. She’s her own person, let her govern.
Coalition government dynamics are tricky. She’ll have to navigate a lot of internal conflicts.
Her father’s shadow looms large. Paetongtarn has big shoes to fill.
It’s a double-edged sword. While it gives her a platform, it also sets high expectations.