Paetongtarn Shinawatra Proposed as Next Prime Minister in House Meeting
PUBLISHED: 15 Aug 2024 at 18:02
In a significant political development, the coalition government has unified in support of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leader of the Pheu Thai Party, for the position of the country’s next prime minister. The decision will be officially presented during the House of Representatives meeting on Friday.
If her nomination is accepted, the 37-year-old would make history as the youngest prime minister in the country, succeeding Srettha Thavisin, who was recently dismissed by the Constitutional Court due to an ethical violation.
Paetongtarn’s rise to prime minister would mark her as the third member of the influential Shinawatra family to hold this prestigious office, following her father Thaksin Shinawatra and her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra.
The announcement of her candidacy took many by surprise, particularly after reports indicated coalition leaders had initially favored Chaikasem Nitisiri, 75, a former justice minister, as the nominee. However, opposition within the coalition led to a swift change in support towards Paetongtarn.
The Pheu Thai executive board officially selected Ms. Paetongtarn as their candidate during a meeting on Thursday afternoon. Addressing the media, she expressed gratitude for the backing from her party and coalition partners, affirming her commitment to tackle the nation’s economic challenges.
Surrounded by key coalition party leaders, she emphasized her intention to honor the hard work of her predecessor Srettha Thavisin, who was recently removed from office.
Political Backing and Family Guidance
Ms. Paetongtarn noted that her father, a seasoned political figure, is available to provide her with guidance if elected.
Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai reaffirmed the unanimous support for Ms. Paetongtarn among Pheu Thai MPs, highlighting the coalition’s readiness for the upcoming parliamentary vote.
The House session is set to begin at 10 AM on Friday, requiring a simple majority of 493 members to confirm the new prime minister.
Ms. Paetongtarn possesses a bachelor’s degree in political science from Chulalongkorn University and a master’s degree in international hotel management from the University of Surrey. She is the largest shareholder of SC Asset Corp and has significant business involvement prior to her potential role as prime minister.
In line with legal requirements, she is expected to step back from her business interests upon her nomination.
Ms. Paetongtarn is married to Pitaka Suksawat, and the couple has two children.
