In a remarkable journey that captivated the nation, Srettha Thavisin, a former real estate mogul, ascended to the position of Thailand’s 30th Prime Minister, only to face a swift and dramatic downfall. His political career, which began in late 2022, was marked by both rapid success and a controversial end.
Key Takeaways
- Srettha Thavisin was appointed as Thailand’s 30th Prime Minister on August 23, 2023.
- His political career began with the Pheu Thai Party in November 2022.
- He was removed from office by the Constitutional Court on August 14, 2024.
Early Life and Education
Srettha Thavisin was born on February 15, 1962, as the only child of Captain Amnuay Thavisin and Chodchoy Thavisin. He pursued higher education in the United States, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Massachusetts and a Master’s degree in Finance from Claremont Graduate School in California.
Family Background
Srettha is married to Dr. Pakpilai Thavisin, and together they have three children: Nop, Naeb, and Nub. His family life has been a cornerstone of his public persona, often highlighting his commitment to both his family and his country.
Career in Real Estate
Before entering politics, Srettha had a successful career in the real estate sector. After completing his education in 1986, he worked for Procter & Gamble for four years before joining Sansiri Co Ltd, a prominent real estate company in Thailand. He eventually became the CEO of Sansiri Public Co Ltd, leading the company to significant growth and success.
In April 2023, he resigned from all positions at Sansiri, marking a transition from business to politics.
Political Ascent
Srettha’s political journey began in November 2022 when he joined the Pheu Thai Party. By March 2023, he was appointed as the party’s chief adviser, and in April, he was nominated for the position of Prime Minister. His appointment on August 23, 2023, was celebrated by supporters, who viewed him as a fresh face in Thai politics.
Controversy and Downfall
Despite his initial popularity, Srettha’s tenure was marred by controversy. On May 15, 2024, a group of 40 senators petitioned the Constitutional Court to review his qualifications to remain in office. The court’s ruling on August 14, 2024, was a significant blow, as it decided to remove him from the position of Prime Minister by a narrow margin of 5 to 4.
Conclusion
Srettha Thavisin’s rise and fall in Thai politics serves as a cautionary tale about the volatility of political life. From a successful real estate mogul to the Prime Minister, and then to a figure of controversy, his journey reflects the complexities of leadership in a rapidly changing political landscape. As Thailand moves forward, the implications of his brief tenure will likely resonate in the political arena for years to come.
Sources
- A real estate mogul’s rapid rise to Thailand’s 30th PM and downfall, Nation Thailand.
