The coalition government in Thailand has rallied behind Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leader of the Pheu Thai Party, to be the country’s next prime minister. If approved, she will become the youngest prime minister in Thailand’s history, succeeding Srettha Thavisin, who was dismissed for an ethical violation.
Key Takeaways
- Paetongtarn Shinawatra, 37, is the daughter of former premier Thaksin Shinawatra.
- She would be the third member of the Shinawatra family to hold the prime minister position.
- The coalition government has a total of 312 MPs in the 493-seat House.
- A simple majority is required to approve her nomination.
Background
Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the 37-year-old daughter of former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, has been nominated by the coalition government to be Thailand’s next prime minister. This decision comes after the dismissal of Srettha Thavisin by the Constitutional Court for an ethical violation. If her nomination is approved, Paetongtarn will become the youngest prime minister in the country’s history.
Coalition Support
The coalition government, which includes parties such as Bhumjaithai, Palang Pracharath, Chartthaipattana, Prachachat, Chart Pattana Kla, Sereeruamthai, and Thai Ruamphalang, has united behind Paetongtarn’s nomination. The coalition has a total of 312 MPs in the 493-seat House, and a simple majority is required to approve her nomination.
Political Legacy
Paetongtarn would be the third member of the Shinawatra family to hold the prime minister position, following her father Thaksin and her aunt Yingluck. Thaksin’s brother-in-law, Somchai Wongsawat, also briefly served as prime minister in 2008. Paetongtarn has expressed her gratitude for the nomination and has vowed to address the nation’s economic crisis.
Controversy and Opposition
Initially, it was reported that the coalition government had considered nominating Chaikasem Nitisiri, a former justice minister and attorney-general. However, opposition from coalition parties and many Pheu Thai MPs led to the selection of Paetongtarn. Concerns were raised about Chaikasem’s previous support for amending the lese majeste law, which has been a contentious issue in Thai politics.
Qualifications and Experience
Paetongtarn holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Chulalongkorn University and a master’s degree in international hotel management from the University of Surrey in England. She is the largest shareholder of SC Asset Corp and the chief executive for hotel business of Rende Development Co. Before assuming the premier’s role, she will need to relinquish her business roles and comply with share ownership restrictions.
Family and Personal Life
Paetongtarn is married to Pitaka Suksawat, and they have two children. She has expressed her readiness to take on the prime ministerial role and has indicated that her father, Thaksin, is available to provide advice based on his experience as a former prime minister.
Next Steps
The House of Representatives is scheduled to meet on Friday to vote on Paetongtarn’s nomination. A simple majority of the 493 members is required to approve her as the new prime minister. The outcome of this vote will determine the future leadership of Thailand.
Sources
- Bangkok Post – Coalition unites behind Paetongtarn for PM, Bangkok Post.
